The Infiniti FX was something of a revelation when it made its 2003 debut. At the time, there were few sporty SUVs on the market — unless your definition of sport is the rugged, off-road type rather than the quick, nimble, on-road variety.

The refreshed 2012 Infiniti FX35 is essentially the same sporty performer it's always been, but its balky transmission and the evolving crossover/SUV market make its appeal narrower all the time.

Unlike most SUVs of its time, the 2003 FX35 was based on an enlarged car platform, yet it retained the rear-wheel drive that other models in the nascent crossover movement had abandoned. In a sense, it was an overgrown — and admittedly heavy — version of the G35 sedan and coupe, complete with reasonably balanced weight distribution and good dynamics. It also had ride quality sponsored by the American Dental Association, especially in the V-8-powered FX45 version. With the exception of gradual refinement and some styling changes, including a full redesign for 2009, the FX follows the same formula today. (See all the 2012 FX versions.)

• New for 2012
• Carlike Handling
• Hurry Up? Wait.
• Interior Tradeoffs
• Safety
• FX in the Market