Going from a 350z to a fx35

[yosshaa]

Hi Everyone,
Been doing a lot of research on the fx35 lately, I think I have my heart set on a 2012 AWD model. All the reviews talk about the harshness and lack of cargo of the FX. Personally right now I drive a lowered 2006 350z, I would assume the fx would be a Cadillac cream puff by comparison. I'm really comfortable working on the 3.5 v6, it being the same motor thats currently in my z. I have recently started looking at the 3.7l models as well. Can anyone recommend one of the other?
Is my assumption that the "harsh" ride is really relative?

 

[atl_red_G35]

I too came from the 03 G35C and the 07 350Z. I bought my 11 FX35 RWD with the following reason in mind:

1. Has the better VQ35HR compared to the previous DE. I love that engine on my Z so I wanted the same.
2. One of the best looking and reliable Sporty SUV at the time within my budget (I also like the Cayenne also).

Sure enough, I enjoy every bit of the car. With mild mods, I was able to throw the car around while still be able to carry my wife and kid comfortably.

Seat fold flat so I can haul big luggage if I want to, so that's a plus. Decent leg room for our family (we're the smaller build Asian fam).

Things I love about the car:

1. Engine: same platform as the G&Z, very easy to work on with mods
2. Handling is great, even with 22".
3. Birdview Camera, LOVE and SPOILED by it
4. Can look hella good with 22" and Coilovers
5. Interior & Electronics is vastly upgraded compared to the previous 09-10 years of the same gen.
6. Great distinctive VQ sounds.

Things I don't like:
1. Not that much room for a SUV
2. Can't really tow a car (I too have the Cayenne S, same body size but tow rating is ranked at ~8000lbs).
3. V6 limited power and V8 isn't that much more "umph".

That's my 2 cents. You won't be disappointed.

 

[Kanedean]

If you like to work on your 350z, then working on a FX35 is very similar. They both share majority of parts.

For the harsh ride, it's true what they say. The suspension could be more tuned to delivery a more comfortable ride. However, with the stiff suspension, cornering feels great. I guess that's a trade off.
To make the ride bearable, the seats are super comfy, seriously.

I don't think the FX has a lack of cargo space problem. I don't have a problem hauling golf clubs bag or hockey bags around. For skis, I have to fold down the 40 split back seat. I feel like the FX has more cargo space than a hatch back but less than a wagon.

 

[yosshaa]

Thanks for the reply's!
I love to camp and snowboard, which is impossible in the Z. My ground clearance makes running over a sideways monster can impossible. Still I drive vehicles like they are sports cars "spirited"
The Fx seems to be a good mix of what I'm looking for, something that can hit dirt roads and snow yet still be peppy when trying to get through the daily commute.
I'm single and have a dog so the rear room doesn't worry me too much. As for the trunk space while it isn't huge I'm sure it will easily take my camping gear/snowboards/bike, etc.

 

[meme405]

Thanks for the reply's!
I love to camp and snowboard, which is impossible in the Z. My ground clearance makes running over a sideways monster can impossible. Still I drive vehicles like they are sports cars "spirited"
The Fx seems to be a good mix of what I'm looking for, something that can hit dirt roads and snow yet still be peppy when trying to get through the daily commute.
I'm single and have a dog so the rear room doesn't worry me too much. As for the trunk space while it isn't huge I'm sure it will easily take my camping gear/snowboards/bike, etc.

Dude this car is made for stuff like that:



4 snowboards, and a pair of skis, inside the car I had 5 people with all their luggage and gear for a 3 day snowboarding trip to whistler.

 

[RIPnFX]

I don't agree with the harsh ride statement, the FX rides awesome, it's a little more of a sporty bumpier ride but that's why it's fun to drive. I def recommend it. You will love it coming from a Z.

 

[StuLax18]

The FX will definitely be a smoother ride, and quieter as well. For me, going from the Z to the FX the biggest change is the weight difference. It just feels like a heavier car going through turns and stuff as you would expect. It's a great option for a similar feeling car, but will be more comfortable to drive.

The 2009+ FX's will have the HR engine, where your Z has the DE or revup if it's manual.