Automotive
Replacing the old QX4, the FX model was designed to replicate the experience of driving a sports car. Being an SUV, it was a little difficult to obtain such great agility and power, so Infiniti had to make compromises. The FX was an SUV with no off-road capabilities to keep the frame lighter. The ride comfort was also altered, as the FX came with 20-inch alloys, race-car-sized brakes, and a stiff suspension.
The FX was based on Nissan’s 350Z sports car platform, and the extra weight of the larger body was carried by thicker frame members. Two models were available for the 2002 model: the FX35 and the FX45. As the nameplate suggests, the FX35 was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine borrowed from the 350Z, while the FX45 was driven by a 4.5-liter V8 engine taken from the Q45 luxury sedan.
Both models featured a 5-speed automatic transmission (no manual gearbox was available) and were well-equipped with dual-zone climate control, traction control, stability control, brake assist, and other useful features, such as split-folding and reclining rear seats, along with power front seats. Being in the driver’s seat offered decent comfort, and the interior felt a bit tighter compared to competitors like the BMW X5 or the Range Rover. However, great visibility was offered, and an optional rear-view camera was available to ease parking.
The second generation of the Infiniti FX was unveiled at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show. For the first time, it was prepared to be sold in Europe with diesel engines. The FX was not a small SUV, and while on the U.S. market, it was no problem to be fitted with a large gasoline engine, the Europeans preferred a diesel version. That is why the 2008 FX was equipped with fuel-efficient engines and, much more importantly, 7-speed automatic gearboxes.
The design was bold, featuring an angled, shark-like front fascia. The small cabin with a rounded roof was inspired by sports cars. The 3D grille design was far ahead of its time, and the headlights resembled the eyes of a Great White shark.
The interior was luxurious, fit for a premium SUV. For the contact zones, natural leather was used, while the lower and side parts of the seats featured man-made leather. The infotainment system was an evolution from the one developed for the Nissan Primera but with a color display and a world-first 360-degree view. The platform was heavily revised, with a double-wishbone in the front and multi-link in the rear. There was also an option for rear-wheel steering in the S versions (FX37S and FX50S). An adaptive Continuous Damping Control was also available on the options list.
