STYLE goes hand in fitted glove when it comes to premium SUVs.
We have become accustomed to Range Rover, Mercedes, Audi, BMW and Porsche setting the standard, but now we have a new name to get cultured tongues around, Infiniti.
The prestige brand of Nissan, Infiniti is without doubt the rarest of those and the most exclusive with its EX and larger FX with its new three-litre diesel engine.
In terms of torque it is the most powerful in its class and that is really what is wanted when overtaking.
The 238bhp V6 diesel pushes out 550Nm which gives it a sports car like acceleration from 0-62mph time of 8.3 seconds and in seventh gear it runs to 132mph.
The overall fuel consumption is officially 31.4mpg but I could not better 27.2.
The quietness, smoothness, and punchy performance of the power-train is very impressive. It is surprisingly quick off the mark, pulls with confidence when overtaking and it cruises very quietly. Well almost.
The refinement of the power-train is not matched by the suspension. It creates a lot of noise over any surface, noticeably more on bumpy roads, and the refinement of the FX stands at odds with the firm and sometimes bumpy ride.
With a limited market, Infiniti has listened to customers and it comes as standard with 21-inch alloys and low profile tyres, but it’s not the best.
If you accept and want this sort of ride, you certainly will not be disappointed with the handling as a result.
The Infiniti FX30d GT Premium behaves more like a sports car despite its size, with well weighted steering, beautifully balanced strong brakes and it always feels stable with very high levels of grip over any surface.
The interior is also very well equipped with luxurious leather trim, powered air conditioned seats, privacy glass and electric sunroof, a highly sophisticated info-tainment system with touch-screen operation, massive music storage and multi-use modes.
It is very comprehensive but I found it not as intuitive as expected when using the route guidance.
When reversing you have several cameras to give information and a remarkable bird’s eye over-view which combines four images into one and lets you precisely place the vehicle in a position of choice and creates the impression you are looking directly down on the roof from about four metres above.
Visibility is also good to the front with powerful bi-xenon adaptive cornering headlights which “look” around bends, there are big wipers and a low waistline.
Unfortunately, the high bonnet and tall tail hide a lot from the driver’s eyes and you have to rely on the parking and manoeuvring sensors.
Boot space at 410 litres is modest behind the high opening tailgate, but the four side doors open wide to give good access to the fairly roomy interior. It is comfortable for four, but tight for five.
The Infiniti FX3.0d GT Premium is a car I warmed to despite is knobbly ride because it was so good in other important areas. Lined up against rivals it is distinctive, different and does a good all-round job.
You have to accept that its not as easy as its rivals to view or drive, that servicing will not be straightforward, but for those who want to look different, have different taste and are prepared to put up with some inconveniences, this executive soft-roader is a tantalising choice and represents remarkable value for money in this sector.
FAST FACTS
Infiniti FX3.0d GT Premium
Price: £50,719
Mechanical: 235bhp, , 2,998cc, 6cyl diesel engine driving four wheels via 7-speed automatic gearbox
Max speed: 132mph
0-62mph: 8.5 seconds
Combined mpg: 27
Insurance group: 47
CO2 emissions: 238g/km
BIK rating: 35%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles