Infiniti FX Vs Range Rover Sport: Head-To-Head Review

Luxury SUVs blend high-end comfort, powerful performance, and versatile capability, making them favorites among drivers seeking premium motoring. The Infiniti FX, Nissan’s upscale offering, challenges the established Range Rover Sport from Land Rover in this competitive segment. This comparison dives into their design, engines, driving dynamics, features, pricing, and real-world usability to determine which vehicle better suits discerning buyers.

Design and Exterior Styling

The Infiniti FX stands out with its aggressive, coupe-like silhouette that emphasizes sportiness over traditional SUV boxiness. Its sloping roofline and wide stance give it a muscular presence, enhanced by sharp LED headlights and bold grille work inspired by concept cars. Recent updates added vibrant color options and refined trim details, boosting its visual appeal in urban settings.

In contrast, the Range Rover Sport embodies British elegance with a commanding road presence. Its squared-off lines, prominent wheel arches, and signature rising beltline convey rugged sophistication. The 2012 facelift introduced sleeker front fascia and adaptive LED lights, maintaining its iconic status while improving aerodynamics.

Both vehicles measure similarly in size, but the Range Rover Sport’s adjustable air suspension provides superior versatility for varied terrains.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Inside the Infiniti FX, drivers find a driver-focused cockpit with high-quality leather, metallic accents, and intuitive controls. The facelifted model includes an upgraded infotainment system with navigation, Bluetooth, and a premium Bose audio setup. Rear space is adequate for two adults, though the sloped roof limits headroom. Cargo capacity reaches 660 liters with seats up, expanding significantly when folded.

The Range Rover Sport counters with opulent materials like soft-touch leather, wood veneers, and aluminum trim. Its 2012 refresh added a more intuitive eight-inch touchscreen, Meridian sound system, and enhanced connectivity. Spacious for five, it offers 784 liters of boot space, plus advanced climate control and massage seats in higher trims. Both excel in luxury, but the Sport edges ahead in rear passenger comfort.

• Key Infiniti FX interior highlights: Sporty seating, customizable ambient lighting, optional around-view camera.
• Key Range Rover Sport interior highlights: Adaptive cruise control, digital TV tuner, heated/cooled seats.

Engine Options and Performance

Powertrains define these SUVs’ excitement. The Infiniti FX30d diesel variant packs a 3.0-liter V6 producing 175 kW (238 hp), accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 8.3 seconds with claimed 9.0 L/100 km efficiency. Its seven-speed automatic shifts smoothly, prioritizing on-road agility over low-speed grunt.

The Range Rover Sport’s 3.0-liter TDV6 diesel delivers 180 kW (245 hp), paired with a new eight-speed ZF gearbox for refined shifts. It hits 0-100 km/h in about 8.0 seconds, sipping 9.2 L/100 km officially. Supercharged petrol options like the 5.0-liter V8 in the Sport push outputs to 375 kW, outpacing the FX50s’s 4.5-liter V8 at 287 kW.

Diesel models offer balanced efficiency, while petrol variants thrill with raw power. The Sport’s extra torque shines in overtaking.

Handling and On-Road Dynamics

The Infiniti FX surprises with sports-car-like handling thanks to its double-wishbone suspension and wide track. It corners flat, with minimal body roll, making it ideal for twisty roads. Brakes are strong, and steering is precise, though ride quality firms up on rough surfaces.

The Range Rover Sport balances luxury and poise via its air suspension and active roll control. It absorbs bumps gracefully while maintaining composure at speed. The eight-speed gearbox enhances responsiveness, but its taller profile introduces more lean in bends compared to the FX.

Off-Road Capabilities

Here, the Range Rover Sport dominates. Equipped with Terrain Response, hill descent control, and up to 278 mm ground clearance, it tackles mud, sand, and rocks effortlessly. Wade depth reaches 700 mm, with low-range gearing for serious adventuring.

The Infiniti FX, being front-biased and road-oriented, lacks low-range transfer case or advanced traction aids. It’s capable on light trails but not a true off-roader. Buyers prioritizing tarmac will prefer the FX’s dynamics.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Both score high in safety. The FX includes six airbags, stability control, and intelligent cruise in premiums. The Sport ups it with eight airbags, 360-degree cameras, and off-road aids. Euro NCAP ratings favor the Sport’s comprehensive suite.

Pricing and Ownership Costs

In 2012 Europe, the Infiniti FX started around €57,300, £1,500 more than the Range Rover Sport’s £55,800 base. Maintenance favors the FX due to Nissan parts availability, but Range Rover dealer networks are denser. Fuel and insurance costs are comparable for diesels; petrols demand premiums.

• Infiniti FX pros: Lower long-term servicing, sportier drive.
• Range Rover Sport pros: Superior resale, off-road supremacy.

Real-World Ownership Insights

Owners praise the FX for reliability and fun factor, though some note infotainment glitches. Range Rover Sports impress with luxury but face criticism for electronics issues and higher repair bills. Fuel efficiency holds up in mixed driving, averaging 10-12 L/100 km.

Which One Wins?

For road-focused luxury and value, the Infiniti FX excels as an underdog challenger. The Range Rover Sport reigns supreme for all-terrain versatility and prestige. Choice depends on priorities: tarmac thrills or expedition-ready capability.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Infiniti FX more reliable than the Range Rover Sport?

Generally yes, due to shared Nissan underpinnings, but both require diligent maintenance.

Which has better fuel economy?

Diesel variants are close, with FX slightly edging at 9.0 vs 9.2 L/100 km.

Can the Infiniti FX go off-road?

Light duties only; it’s no match for the Sport’s systems.

What is the top speed of these SUVs?

Fx30d: 210 km/h; Sport TDV6: 220 km/h; petrols exceed 250 km/h.

How do resale values compare?

Range Rover holds stronger due to brand cachet.