YEAR / MAKE / MODEL: 2013 Infiniti FX37
POWERTRAIN: 3.2L V6 with 325hp / 267 lb-ft of torque : 7-speed Automatic Transmission w/ Rev Matching
FUEL ECONOMY: 17 city / 24 hwy / 19 combined
There’s a pretty good argument out there that a well-designed crossover could in fact be the perfect vehicle. Gone are the rough and tumble truck characteristics from the SUVs of old, and in their place are wonderful cross-stitched interiors, supple rides and engines so smooth you hardly even know they’re running. The new 2013 Infiniti FX37 is one such vehicle, and while it’s good in most respects there are some areas in which it could use some improvement.
Under the hood lies Infiniti’s 3.7L V6. It pumps out 325hp and 267 lb-ft of torque, that’s a 22 hp and 5 lb-ft of torque increase over the 2012 FX35 we tested last year. Now you can opt for the 390hp 5.0L V8 if you want to be fancy, but trust me when I say this V6 motivates the FX37 along just fine. Our tester was rear wheel drive only and tipped the scales at 4,209 lbs, so understand that it’s no lightweight. Regardless though, the V6 has more than enough grunt to spin up the back wheels, which was something that I’ve never actually done in a crossover before this thing showed up.
We were also equipped with the optional “Touring Package” a $3,300.00 option. That meant the big 20-inch wheels you see here, quilted leather interior (a really nice touch), and ventilated seats for when you want to cool off that tuckus of yours.
Now, the downsides to those 20-inch rims are the Bridgestone Dueler HP 265/50/20 series tires that surround them. Not only did they generate a lot of road noise, but they also accentuated an already stiff suspension.
Handling on the FX37 was very good. So good in fact that I actually took a trip into the canyons just so I could play around with this thing. You may not believe it, but a big, rear-wheel drive crossover is actually a hoot to drive at the limit. Responsive steering and ample power help make this happen, however as mentioned, unless your flogging this thing, I think the suspension may be a bit too stiff for most.
The interior is one area where the FX37 really shines. Beautiful cross-stitched and nicely bolstered seats provide all day comfort, while a well laid out center stack provides easy access to all your techo-niceties. Options like navigation, audio and vehicle settings (all part of the Premium Package: $4,300.00) can also all be controlled through voice prompts and can be activated via the steering wheel mounted controls.
Front seat room is aplenty, however rear legroom is a bit on the compromised side. Another thing of note is that the rear boot storage is actually limited with only 24.8 cubic feet of space with the rear seats folded up. Fold the rear seats down however and space opens up to 62 cubic feet.
As equipped, our tester came in at $55,800. A big number for a V6 powered crossover that’s not equipped with AWD. By comparison, the 2012 FX35 Limited with all-wheel-drive that we previously tested came in at just under $53K. Hmm… interesting.
There’s no question that the 2013 Infiniti FX37 would make a great vehicle for small families or individuals that are looking for a sporty and great looking crossover. However due to its limited cargo space and lack of a 3rd-row seat, I fear that it may be a bit small for larger families.
*The FX37 comes equipped with a full-surround camera system, something that may sound frivolous, until that is, you use it! Great idea!
Each case though is obviously different, so with that I would simply say, go down to your dealership and check it out. Its build quality is superb, it’s fun to drive and after my week with it I can safely say that the 2014 Infiniti FX37 would be a complete pleasure to live with as a daily driver.
