The INFINITI FX, which goes on sale at INFINITI dealers in Canada in fall 2010, returns as a radical expression of sport and utility – offering exceptional levels of power, refinement and driving exhilaration. With its unique styling, advanced sports platform and the choice between the 390-horsepower 5.0-litre 32-valve DOHC V8 engine with VVEL (for Variable Valve Event & Lift) or the 303-horsepower 3.5-litre 24-valve DOHC V6 engines, the FX50 and FX35 both provide a fusion of luxury, performance and utility.
Packages for 2011 are slightly modified as a Navigation & Deluxe Touring package will be available lat on the FX35, featuring a 20-inch tire and wheel. Packages no longer available include the Mobile Entertainment and Technology packages. Comfort and convenience changes to the 2011 FX include numerous enhancements such as a new standard power rear liftgate (late availability) to provide easier access to FX’s plentiful storage.
“The INFINITI FX combines sporty performance with the utility of an SUV – an unbeatable combination,” said Mark McDade, Director, Marketing, Nissan Canada Inc. “For 2011, FX continues the technology leadership that was a hallmark of the original, including the new standard power rear liftgate and an incredible array of innovative safety features designed to reduce the stress of everyday driving.”
As a showcase of INFINITI’s innovative technology capabilities, the FX offers a number of available advanced safety systems – including Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA), which provides forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking if a collision with the vehicle ahead is imminent; Distance Control Assist (DCA), which reduces the burden of driving in heavy traffic by intuitively helping to release the throttle and apply the brakes to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead; and Lane Departure Warning/Lane Departure Prevention system, which helps keep the vehicle in its travel lane.
Inside, the 2011 FX interior provides a warm, modern, inviting environment highlighted by a driver-oriented cockpit with intuitive controls, available sport seating and advanced audio, navigation and technology ranging from an 11-speaker Bose audio system to INFINITI Intelligent Key, available Intelligent Cruise Control (now with Full Speed Range) and available Around View Monitor system.
The 2011 FX is available in two models: FX50 AWD with 5.0-litre V8 and FX35 AWD with 3.5-litre V6.
Enhanced Styling and Body Structure
The FX continues with the head-turning exterior styling and sporty proportions that helped the first-generation FX stand out from all other performance luxury crossovers on the market – a long hood, stretched wheelbase, short front and rear overhangs, and low centre of gravity.
“The INFINITI FX’s aggressive styling serves notice of its performance underpinnings, yet FX also offers room for five passengers and the cargo capacity to hold four full-size golf bags,” said McDade. “FX proves that utility comes in all shapes, including a beautifully elegant one.”
FX’s aggressive silhouette is highlighted by a strong front-to-rear shoulder line, tight greenhouse, kicked-back roofline and integrated rear spoiler. The large LED taillights extend beyond the body, helping create aerodynamic downforce, while big dual exhaust outlets with chrome finishers cap the action-ready appearance.
Under FX’s polished, assertive styling is an equally advanced body structure. FX utilizes the rigid platform architecture used on the performance-slanted INFINITI G Sedan, G Coupe and M Sedan. The FX platform offers a performance foundation and balanced front-to-rear weight distribution for exceptional handling.
A Driver-Oriented Interior
The 2011 INFINITI FX’s interior features a command centre-style cockpit designed to enhance the driving experience. The available leather-appointed 10-way power-adjustable sports driver’s seat includes variable air-inflating lumbar support and manual thigh extensions. The front passenger seat offers 8-way power adjustments, and both front seats have quiet and efficient heating and cooling functions for maximum comfort in any season.
The high-tech interior design includes an INFINITI signature double-wave instrument panel and white/violet Fine Vision electroluminescent gauges. Also available is an Automatic Driving Position System, which moves the seat, steering wheel and outside mirrors adaptively into the correct position – allowing the driver to change the seat position while driving and keep the same mirror viewpoint and relationship between the steering column and driver’s shoulder position.
The FX interior also includes an array of comfort and convenience equipment, including a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, front door pockets, front seatback pockets, dual front and rear cupholders, locking glove compartment, four assist grips, overhead sunglass holder, four 12-volt power outlets, power windows with front one-touch up/down function, power door locks and cargo area cover, cargo net and aluminum pedals. Hospitality features include INFINITI Intelligent Key( with Push Button Ignition and a special Welcome Lighting system with 12-point sequential lighting that starts with turning on the puddle lamps under the side mirrors as the driver approaches the FX and continues to light key areas as driver and passengers settle into the interior.
Another available feature is an Advanced Climate Control System (ACCS) with Plasmacluster? ionizer that removes or neutralizes interior airborne contaminants. The system includes a “Clean Mode,” which emits a low concentration of negative and positive ions that attach to airborne particles (mold, fungi, spores, etc.), causing an attraction to interior surfaces so they are no longer floating around, while rendering them harmless.
An “Ion Mode” creates a high concentration of negative ions to impart a freshness and crispness to the air, similar to what people experience after a thunderstorm or near a waterfall.
In addition, FX50 utilizes a filter using fiber impregnated with natural grape seed polyphenol, which has the ability to neutralize allergens that conventional filters cannot remove due to their incredibly small size (0.3 to 0.5 microns).
The FX comes equipped with state-of-the-art audio – an advanced Bose® audio system, acoustically engineered by Bose® to optimize sound within the FX’s interior. The 11-speaker system features an AM/FM/ Single CD player, XM® Satellite Radio (requires active XM® subscription, sold separately), diversity antenna and steering wheel-mounted remote audio controls.
The available advanced INFINITI Hard Drive (HDD) Navigation System with a 9.3GB Music Box Hard Drive for digital music storage and playback, USB Connection Port with Interface System for iPod®, and Voice Recognition system for climate control, navigation, audio system and phone functions. The system also includes the Zagat® Restaurant Guide and Bluetooth Streaming Audio.
Other high tech features include the Around View Monitor system and an available INFINITI DVD Mobile Entertainment System with 9.0-inch flip-down console-mounted rear monitor, two wireless headphones and remote controller. Both the front and rear screens can display DVD content (front only when parked).
Two Advanced Engines
Performance has always been the hallmark of the INFINITI FX – both acceleration and braking, along with tight, responsive handling. The 2011 FX continues to uphold the standard set by its predecessor.
The 2011 INFINITI FX50 model, features a 5.0-litre V8 engine design rated at 390 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque
One of the keys to the new V8’s impressive performance is the adoption of INFINITI’s patented Variable Valve Event & Lift (VVEL) valve control technology, which was first introduced on the high-performance 2008 INFINITI G37 Coupe. The VVEL system continuously adjusts valve event and lift amounts, enabling higher fuel efficiency with higher torque and improved emissions over conventional variable valve designs. The VVEL intake camshafts, which feature continuously variable lift control teamed with a Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS), allow for a 6,800 rpm redline and a high compression ratio of 10.9:1.
Also available in the 2011 FX35 with its advanced 3.5-litre DOHC 24-valve V6 engine. The V6 engine features an aluminum block and heads and electronically controlled throttle system and has been tuned specifically for use in the FX35. The engine is rated at 303-horsepower at 6,800 rpm and 262 lb-ft of torque.
The advanced V6 design also includes a symmetric twin ram air intake system that reduces airflow resistance, Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS), a silent timing chain for quiet operation, microfinished crank journals and cam lobes, and Teflon-coated lightweight pistons, a dual exhaust system with equal length exhaust manifolds and low muffler exhaust pressure to help improve engine breathing. The FX35’s exhaust note has been tuned for a sporty, high-performance sound.
Only one transmission is offered on the FX – a 7-speed transmission, which last year was the first ever offered on an INFINITI vehicle. This transmission offers a wide ratio of coverage and a wide lock-up area, as well as a manual shift mode, Downshift Rev Matching and Adaptive Shift Control (ASC).
The standard ASC system adapts the transmission’s shift timing, depending on driving style, ensuring more responsive performance. ASC can switch between several different programs – adjusting gear hold and downshifting, helping the FX feel more like a manual shift transmission when desired.
Solid magnesium paddle shifters (available on FX50 Sport Package) enable drivers to shift the transmission without releasing their hands from the steering wheel, helping maintain stability for the driver when accelerating or decelerating on winding roads.
INFINITI’s advanced Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system with Traction Control System (TCS) is standard on all FX models – with a cancel switch for drivers who desire less vehicle intervention.
All FX models are equipped with INFINITI’s advanced ATTESA E-TS (Advanced Total Traction Engineering System for All Electronic Torque Split) all-wheel drive system, which uses an advanced torque split control strategy that automatically transfers optimum torque to the wheels according to road and driving conditions. The system provides outstanding handling due to optimum torque distribution from front to rear (50:50 up to 0:100). ATTESA E-TS also provides high starting traction performance and smooth, stable acceleration, especially in snow-covered or off-road situations with a 50:50 torque split at standing start.
FX offers independent suspension at all four corners, with a new double-wishbone suspension design in front, tailored for FX’s large wheels and tires, yet similar to that utilized on the INFINITI G Coupe and Sedan and INFINITI M sedan. FX’s rear suspension utilizes the multi-link design from the previous generation, refined to weigh less and provide more wheel travel – again for improved ride and handling. Large diameter stabilizer bars are utilized front and rear.
The suspension system also incorporates special “Dual Flow Path” (DFP) shock absorber technology with rebound springs for responsive yet comfortable ride and firm, tight handling.
An available Continuous Damping Control (CDC) suspension system offers special electronically controlled shock absorbers. Using input from a variety of sensors, the system continuously alters the damping of the shocks to provide optimal ride and handling. A driver-selectable switch with two settings, “Auto” and “Sport,” allows the driver to control the shock valving levels.
The FX50 is available with an advanced Rear-Active Steer system – the first of its kind available in an SUV, which uses precise, electronic motor-driven control to turn the rear wheels up to one degree, helping generate a nimble steering response at low speeds and enhance stability at high speeds. The result is a vehicle that is able to change direction with improved quickness, precision and stability.
Secure braking performance is provided by the FX’s 4-wheel ventilated disc brakes with Brake Assist (BA) and Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD). The FX50 system includes 4-piston front/2-piston rear (opposed piston) calipers, similar to those utilized on the new INFINITI G37 Coupe, and large brake rotors (14.0-inch front/13.8-inch rear).
Superlight six-spoke aluminum-alloy 9.5Jx21-inch wheels, developed by Enkei, are offered as standard equipment on the FX50. The wheels are created using a special type of ultra-lightweight casting and are as light as a competitor’s 18-inch wheels. They are mounted with 265/45R21 all-season tires. W-rated high-performance summer tires are available with the Sport Package.
FX35 models come standard with 8.0Jx18 split-5-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels mounted with 265/60R18 all-season tires.
Advanced Technology and Safety Systems
The 2011 FX includes an array of available advanced technology systems. The Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) system uses the laser rangefinder from the Intelligent Cruise Control’s (ICC) system and analyzes closing speeds to an obstacle ahead to help prevent or reduce damage caused by a rear-end collision. FX is the only vehicle in its class (besides the INFINITI EX) to have IBA.
If a forward collision is imminent with the vehicle in front of the FX and the driver must take immediate avoidance action, the system sounds a warning to prompt driver action. When a rear-end collision cannot be avoided by the FX driver’s action, the system activates the FX’s brakes to decelerate the vehicle, thereby helping to reduce damage resulting from the collision. IBA can apply up to 0.5g braking force (1.0g is considered close to the maximum possible braking force).
Also available on the FX is a Distance Control Assist (DCA) system. Designed for low-speed, heavy traffic situations, DCA uses the Intelligent Cruise Control sensors to measure distance to the car ahead.
The DCA allows one-foot driving in heavy traffic – the driver depresses the accelerator to move forward, but when the car ahead slows, DCA “pushes back” on the accelerator pedal and automatically applies the brakes, even to a stop. The driver then depresses the accelerator to get moving again. DCA will only apply a predetermined amount of brake force. If the closing distance to a vehicle ahead of the FX decreases too rapidly, a warning will sound, alerting the driver to further depress the brakes.
The available Intelligent Cruise Control (Full Speed Range) system combines the brakes, throttle sensor and laser rangefinder with the cruise control system to automatically maintain a set distance between the FX and a vehicle in front of it. The system assists the driver with acceleration and deceleration in the low speed range (between 0 and 25 mph), such as when driving in congested traffic and stops the FX if traffic requires.
Available on all 2011 FXs is the advanced INFINITI Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) system. LDP utilizes the FX’s Vehicle Dynamic Control system to apply slight brake pressure to the wheels opposite the side of the lane departure direction to help prevent the vehicle from inadvertently traveling out of its intended lane.
The INFINITI FX’s Around View Monitor system, first introduced on the 2008 INFINITI EX35, utilizes four small superwide-angle cameras – mounted on the front, side and rear of the FX – to project an all-around view of potential objects on every side of the vehicle, helping reduce blind spots when parking.
The system uses advanced image processing to provide a unique “Birds-Eye View” of the vehicle, making it easy for the driver to position the FX for parallel parking by simultaneously confirming the exact placement of the front and rear of the vehicle.
Safety features found on every 2011 FX include a seat belt reminder system; standard INFINITI Advanced Air Bag System (AABS); dual-stage front supplemental air bags with passenger seat occupant classification system and seat belt sensor; and roof-mounted side-impact and rollover curtain air bag for enhanced outboard seat occupant head protection.
Also standard are 3-point front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, ALR/ELR seat belts in all passenger seating positions (driver’s side ELR only), adjustable upper anchors, front seat Active Head Restraints and LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system. A Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is also standard.
FX also includes available Pre-Crash Seat Belts. Utilizing patented technology (licensed to other automakers), the system automatically cinches-up the FX’s seat belts if the system detects emergency braking, skidding movement or an emergency handling situation – based on information from the brake pedal stepping speed and stroke, IBA activation, vehicle speed and steering angle. In addition to its automatic cinching function in emergencies, the driver can easily fit the seat belt (taking up slack automatically) when putting it on, and support belt wind-up when removing.
Models and Options
The new FX is offered in two engine/drive configurations: the V8-powered FX50 AWD and the V6-powered FX35 AWD. Each comes equipped with exceptional levels of standard equipment.
Four packages are offered for the 2011 FX:
i) Navigation & Mobile Entertainment System Package (Available on FX35 only)
INFINITI HD Navigation System, Voice Recognition, Zagat® Restaurant Guide, 9.3GB Music Box hard drive, 8" Colour Display, Bluetooth® Streaming Audio, Around View Monitor (AVM) with Front & Rear Sonar System, DVD Player in front centre console, Wireless Headphones and 9" Widescreen flip-down headliner mounted display.
ii) Navigation & Deluxe Touring Package (Available on FX35 only)
INFINITI HD Navigation System, Voice Recognition, Zagat® Restaurant Guide, 9.3GB Music Box hard drive, 8" Colour Display, Bluetooth® Streaming Audio, Around View Monitor (AVM) with Front & Rear Sonar System, DVD Player in front centre console, Wireless Headphones, 20” 5-Spoke Aluminum Alloy Wheels, 265/50 R20 All-season tires and Maple Accents.
iii) Technology Package, with Lane Departure Prevention System and Lane Departure Warning System, Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC), Distance Control Assist (DCA), Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) with Forward Collision Warning, Pre-Crash Seat Belts, rain-sensing wipers and Adaptive & Auto-Leveling Front Lighting System (AFS);
iv) Sport Package (Includes Technology Package - Available on FX50 only) with sport Design Front Seats, Rear-Active Steer (RAS), Dark Tinted Head Lamps, Driver’s Seat with Power Bolster Adjustment, Thigh extension For Driver & Passenger, Continuous Damping Control Sport Suspension, 21” Summer Performance Tires and Paddle Shifters.
