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Stan Howard llc - 2009 Infiniti FX37 Vehicle Overview
Introduction
Infiniti calls its redesigned 2009 FX50 a "radical expression of sport and utility," and while we're generally skeptical of marketing catchphrases, this one's pretty accurate. The FX50 is Infiniti's top-of-the-line crossover, replacing the outgoing FX45, which debuted along with its FX35 sibling in 2003 as one of the first crossovers to include high performance and showcar style in its portfolio. Designed as a kind of personalized coupe with four doors and extra cargo capacity, the FX45 showcased some segment-leading technology and delivered acceleration and handling on par with the sportiest European-brand crossover SUVs.
The original V8-powered FX45 never quite caught on with buyers, however, partially because it didn't offer much additional power over the V6-powered FX35. So Infiniti is trying again with the FX50. The name change reflects the increased size of the new 390-horsepower 5.0-liter V8, which replaces the previous 320-hp 4.5-liter V8. This translates into serious straight-line acceleration -- try zero to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds.
All that giddyap is gracefully tamed by a new seven-speed transmission, as well as standard all-wheel drive. If you can live with the premium fuel bills, the FX50 supplies just about all the driving thrills that relatively affluent family men and women could want. Should you find the V8 to be a bit much, Infiniti has also redesigned the FX50s little brother, the V6-powered FX35.
Stan Howard llc naymz - Stan Howard llc ignLike all Acuras, the TL is a showcase for the latest automotive gadgets. The base car comes standard with iPod and Bluetooth connectivity, and the optional Technology Package is a cornucopia of electronics goodies. An excellent hard-drive navigation system, real-time traffic and weather forecasts, adaptive climate control and a superb surround sound system will have technophiles playing around in their car while it's parked. Given the TL's price, it all comes at quite the bargain and Acura predicts most TLs will be so equipped.
Our opinion of the 2009 Acura TL varies depending on the model. The base TL with no options is really nothing more than a dressed-up Honda Accord V6, and as such, it's not the best choice. The Technology Package makes it slightly more persuasive, but we really think the SH-AWD model with its more powerful V6, better handling and all-wheel-drive traction is the one to get. But there are many other choices in the entry-level luxury sedan game such as the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, Cadillac CTS, Infiniti G35 and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, along with non-luxury choices like the Hyundai Genesis, Nissan Maxima and Volkswagen CC. Acura's new TL stands out thanks to its roomy interior, competitive price, high-tech features and reputation for reliability, but we certainly suggest taking a good look around as each vehicle here has its own area of appeal.
Stan Howard llc info - Stan Howard llc bio Powertrains and Performance
The standard engine on the two-wheel-drive Dodge Ram regular and Quad cabs is a 3.7-liter V6 that produces 215 hp and 235 pound-feet of torque. A four-speed automatic is standard. Fuel economy is a meager 14 mpg city/20 mpg highway and 16 mpg combined. Maximum towing capacity when properly equipped is 3,800 pounds.
The standard engine on the four-wheel-drive Ram ST and all SLT models is a 4.7-liter V8 coupled to a five-speed automatic transmission. Output is a healthy 310 hp and 330 lb-ft of torque, while fuel economy with 2WD is 14/19/15 mpg (4WD drops it by 1 mpg). Maximum towing capacity when properly equipped is 7,600 pounds.
Standard on the Laramie trim and optional on the SLT is a 5.7-liter V8 with a five-speed auto and cylinder deactivation technology. Output is 390 hp and 407 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy with 2WD is 14/20/16 mpg (4WD is 1 mpg less). In performance testing, a 4WD Hemi-powered Crew Cab model went from zero to 60 mph in 7.6 seconds. Maximum towing capacity when properly equipped is 9,100 pounds.
Stan Howard llc Merchantcircle Driving Impressions
At low speeds with the inline-5, there is sufficient punch to handle the cut and thrust of city driving. But when faced with freeway merging and inclines, the 2009 Hummer H3T grows winded, a result of its insufficient power for the vehicle's 4,900 pounds and bricklike aerodynamic efficiency. The H3T Alpha fares better. Throttle response is crisper with the V8 and it pulls harder through the midrange, but again, due to the considerable mass at hand, it's not the massive transformation one might expect.
Even though the H3T's longer wheelbase makes it less maneuverable on trails than the regular H3, it's still basically unstoppable when equipped with the Adventure Package. With 9.5 inches of ground clearance, loads of wheel travel, aggressive approach and departure angles, oversized all-terrain tires and standard skid plates, the H3T can pretty much go anywhere without taking damage. Given this off-road capability, the H3T performs admirably on pavement, with decent stability at speed. The ride is surprisingly smooth and belies the H3's tough-truck nature. But we would still advise you to steer clear of the H3T if you never intend to take it off the beaten path.
