Infiniti Cars

The Infiniti FX is one of the most popular models of Infiniti, which was first brought to life in 2003. The FX replaced the QX4 as Infiniti's mid-size luxury-type SUV, despite being larger than its predecessor. It was released at the same time as its competitors, the Porsche Cayenne, Volvo XC90, and Volkswagen Touareg. It shares the same FM platform as the rear-wheel drive Nissan 350Z, whereas the similarly sized Nissan Murano is based on the front-wheel drive Nissan Altima platform.

For some reason, the FX model never came out in Japan, even after gaining popularity in the rest of the world, especially the US.

In creating the FX, its designers sought what they called a "cool fusion" – the blending of a substantial, SUV lower body with the sleek, elegant upper body more reminiscent of a classic sports car or sports GT. In addition, they sought to combine sports-car performance with SUV functionality. The FX is a unique combination of aggressive styling, performance and luxury car comfort. The FX was based on the notion of a "Bionic Cheetah," with advanced technology employed to create a premium crossover SUV. The FX is now in its second generation with the 2009 FX35 and FX50.

The nameplates FX35 and FX45 refer to the two available engines. The FX35 is available in two drivetrains, the RWD and the AWD, which are both fitted to a dual overhead cam 3.5-liter 24-valve V6 VQ35DE gasoline engine, with aluminum-alloy block and heads, electronically controlled “drive-by-wire” throttle system, and low-friction molybdenum-coated pistons that makes use of the Continuous variable valve timing which in part optimizes the opening of intake valves. This is also coupled with an electronically controlled super-wide ratio five-speed automatic with a manumatic shift mode that includes the option of sequentially selected manual gearshifts and Downshift Rev Matching.

The FX45 incorporates a 4.5-liter (4,494 cc) 32-valve V8 DOHC VK45DE gasoline engine with four valves per cylinder, microfinished camshafts with aluminum-alloy block and heads, low-friction molybdenum-coated pistons, titanium intake and exhaust valves, modular cylinder heads, microfinished crankshaft, lightweight pistons, super-silent single stage cam drive chain, and a Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System that optimizes opening of intake valves.

The Infiniti FX was the first passenger vehicle to offer a lane departure warning system. Infiniti's version uses a camera that watches the lane markings to alert everyone in the car via an audible buzzer that the driver is drifting unintentionally.

The redesigned 2009 Infiniti FX was officially unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show on March 4, 2008. The new FX will be offered as the FX37 and FX50. The FX37 will be powered by a new 3.7 liter V6 engine similar to G37 Sedan and will deliver an output of 320 hp (239 kW). The FX50 will be powered by an all-new 5.0 liter V8 engine with an output of 390 hp (291 kW) and 369 lb·ft (500 N·m) of torque. Exterior styling retains some of the current "Bionic Cheetah" look, while incorporating new cues exclusive to the Infiniti brand. The interior has been completely redesigned to bring the FX up to the level of luxury currently found inside of the EX35 Crossover.

The Infiniti FX model turned out really well. Great, moder design, speed, power, interesting and expenive interior, for a reasonable price. It will be very interesting to see, what Infiniti will think up next.