|
|||||||||||||||
|
|
|||||||||||||||
2008 JDPower Initial Quality Study
June 3, 2008: JDPower and Associates announced today the results of their 2008 Initial Quality Study. Infiniti, always known for quality and durability, was recognized again in the IQS. Infiniti, as a brand, vaulted from 9th overall (out of more than 40 brands) to 2nd overall. Only Porsche had a better overall brand rating. The IQS is the “gold standard” for auto manufacturers. The industry takes this study very seriously. Consumers rely on JDPowers for fair and unbiased evaluations of products, services and companies. Infiniti had 5 of its 6 models place either 1st or 2nd within their respective segments.
2008 Infiniti FX35
Dramatic End-of-Model Year Promotion As much as $10,000 OFF LEASE: ZERO CASH DOWN (CAP REDUCTION) $399/Month 39 mos
for Existing Infiniti Owners/Lessees or $995 Cap Reduction Down for non-Infiniti Owners/Lessees
Offers expire June 30, 2008 Infinitiofscottsdale.com EXCLUSIVE! Call the Internet Desk 480-240-3527 for details OVERVIEW: The Infiniti FX is crossover utility designed for the owner who wants a fast, responsive car, but wants to haul five people and their ski equipment. Built on the same rear-drive platform as the Nissan 350Z and Infiniti G35, the FX makes no claims as a backcountry trekker. Instead, the FX offers an SUV-size package that can be driven on dry pavement with much more confidence than traditional sport utilities. It's excellent in wet and snowy conditions. The FX comes in two models, the FX35 with a 3.5 liter V6 engine, which is available in two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive, and the fx50 with a 4.5 liter V8 and 4WD. It's worth noting that the FX has nothing in common with the Nissan Murano. (The Murano shares its front-wheel-drive architecture with the Nissan Maxima and Altima.) As driver's cars, both the V6-powered FX35 and the V8-powered fx50 are powerful and exciting, with big brakes to match. Costing less than the German competition, but giving up nothing in terms of acceleration and handling, both models challenge SUVs from Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Porsche in terms of value. In terms of off-road capability, the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz M-Class and Porsche Cayenne are better suited for the rough stuff than the FX. Infiniti designed the FX primarily for on-road performance, with an available all-wheel-drive system intended primarily for improved handling and performance in the snow. Its lighter chassis means less weight for its powerful engines to move, making it a comparatively better on-road performer. Infiniti equipped the FX with enormous 20-inch wheels and tires (optional on the FX35, standard on the fx50); racecar-sized brakes; and a tight, handling-tuned suspension. The goal was to make the FX as fun to drive as a sports car; Infiniti achieved that, but with compromises in ride comfort, space and off-road capability. The end result is a car-based crossover SUV that's full of character and exciting to drive on sports-car roads, but also one that has a stiff ride, a tighter cockpit than some of its competitors and flamboyant styling. But that may be just the thing for committed sports-car enthusiasts who need to lug their winter toys through the snow belt. FX Details from infinitihelp.com
2008 Infiniti FX Combines Vibrant Design, Exhilarating Performance and Advanced Technology The 2008 Infiniti FX continues its leadership position in the premium crossover SUV class with sports car-inspired performance and style and a long list of available technology features, including Lane Departure Warning (LDW) system, Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC), Brake Assist with Preview Braking, RearView Monitor and Infiniti Intelligent Key. For 2008, FX adds XM satellite radio as standard equipment on all models, along with revised interior/exterior color combination availability.
Originally introduced in 2003, the FX has offered luxury SUV buyers an attractive, versatile crossover vehicle with exceptional utility, performance, style, safety and luxury. Since its major revision in model year 2006, Infiniti continues to evolve FX’s standard and optional equipment offerings to become a showcase for Infiniti technology and attention to customer needs. For 2008, FX is again offered in three fully equipped models: the 275-horsepower 3.5-liter V6-equipped FX35 in both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations; and 320-horsepower 4.5-liter V8-equipped fx50 with standard intelligent ATTESA E-TSÔ all-wheel drive, a sport-tuned 4-wheel independent suspension and 20-inch wheels and tires. The 2008 Infiniti FX arrives in Infiniti dealer showrooms in summer 2007. Performance–Inspired Styling and Platform Again in 2008, the FX exterior blends the substantial lower body of an SUV with the sleek, elegant upper body reminiscent of a sports GT. It features a wide, aggressive stance with a long, sleek hood, sleek roof and a "taut canopy" greenhouse. FX’s short front and rear overhangs provide SUV-like approach and departure angles, while also helping accentuate the long wheelbase, wide track and large tires (18-inch standard on FX35, 20-inch standard on fx50). The wide yet narrow headlights and taillights give the FX an "in-motion" look, with the taillights extending past the body slightly. FX’s distinctive exterior design also includes an Infiniti signature grille, standard fog lights, bi-xenon headlights and large, split dual tailpipes with chrome finishers. Polished aluminum roof rails are standard on fx50, while black roof rails are standard on FX35. By utilizing a modified version of the advanced FM (Front Mid-ship) platform, Infiniti engineers position the FX’s engine behind the front axle. This results in an optimized front-to-rear weight balance of 52:48 (V6 RWD), which assists weight transfer during key handling maneuvers. The FM platform's rigidity has been enhanced specifically for the FX by increasing plate thickness of the front side members, side sills and rear wheel housing. The FX's long 112.2-inch wheelbase and wide track (62.7-inches front, 64.6-inches rear) combine with large wheels and tires to provide a stable driving foundation – as well as a large interior for both passengers and cargo. Two advanced powerplants are available again in 2008, starting with the high-performance power of a 4.5-liter DOHC V8. Also used in the Infiniti M45 sedan, the VK45DE engine has been specially tuned for use in the fx50 and produces 320 horsepower and 335 lb-ft of torque. The engine design includes titanium valves, modular cylinder heads, microfinished crankshaft, lightweight pistons, super-silent single stage cam drive chain and a hydraulically driven cooling fan to help optimize performance. In addition, the VK45DE is outfitted with a variable length air induction system and Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS) to enhance the engine’s power delivery and operation efficiency. The FX35, both all-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive models, come equipped with a standard 3.5-liter DOHC 24-valve V6 engine with aluminum-alloy block and heads and electronically controlled “drive-by-wire” throttle system. The V6 has been tuned specifically for use in the FX35, with a rating of 275 horsepower and 268 lb-ft torque. A 5-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode, designed for high torque capacity and light weight, is standard with both V8- and V6-equipped models. Activated by the driver, a special Snow-Mode function changes the throttle input algorithm in low-speed slippery road conditions for enhanced traction control. Infiniti’s advanced Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system with Traction Control System (TCS) is standard on all FX models. VDC adjusts brake pressure and engine torque automatically in understeer, oversteer or slippery road surface situations, helping the driver keep the intended path. The ATTESA E-TS™ (Advanced Total Traction Engineering System for All Electronic Torque Split) all-wheel drive system utilized on fx50 and FX35 AWD 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 for front and 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. The Infiniti FX's dynamic handling is a result of its advanced 4-wheel independent suspension, which makes extensive use of aluminum-alloy components to reduce unsprung weight. The front suspension is an independent front strut design, while the rear features a multi-link design. Large diameter stabilizer bars are utilized front and rear (front only on FX35 RWD model). The suspension system also incorporates special “High Frequency Control” shock absorber technology with a rebound spring for responsive yet comfortable ride and firm, tight handling. Standard on fx50 models are unique 8.0JJx20 8-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels and 265/50R20 all-season tires. The FX35 is equipped with high-luster Titanium-painted 8.0JJx18 8-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels and 265/60R18 all-season tires, with sport 20-inch wheels and tires available. Standard braking system components include 4-wheel ventilated disc brakes, Brake Assist (BA) and Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD). Responsive steering is provided by an engine-speed-sensitive power rack-and-pinion steering system. Also available is Infiniti's Intelligent Cruise Control, which uses the brakes, throttle and laser sensors to maintain a set distance between the FX and a vehicle in front of it. The available Preview Braking function is designed to further enhance brake response. The preview function utilizes the ICC system’s sensors to identify sudden braking situations (by sensing the vehicle ahead in the same lane and the distance and relative speed from it) and “pre-pressurizes” the Brake Assist system before the driver steps on the brake pedal.
A Striking, Dynamic Interior Experience The 2008 FX’s five-passenger interior blends the comfort and amenities of a luxury car with an array of high tech driver and passenger features. Leather-appointed seating surfaces with driver seat memory and power lumbar, heated front seats and power tilt/telescope steering wheel are standard, along with Dual-Zone Automatic Temperature Control air conditioning, 7-inch information display color monitor, electroluminescent gauges and a three-spoke, leather-wrapped power tilt/telescope steering wheel with illuminated switches for cruise control and audio systems. Other interior amenities include an Infiniti signature analog clock, driver and passenger one-touch up/down front power windows and power door locks. Available rear seat passenger features include personal reading lamps, center armrest with tray and storage, dual seatback pockets for storing DVDs and magazines, reclining seats and rear B-pillar mounted air conditioning vents for enhanced cooling performance. Every FX model also offers exceptional utility, including a large cargo area with easy accessibility, flip-down rear seats with quick-release levers conveniently located in the cargo area, three under-floor storage compartments and a lightweight, steel-reinforced composite rear cargo door with electromagnetic opener switch. Standard features on FX also include a 300-watt Bose® audio sound system with 6-disc CD autochanger, 11 speakers including two subwoofers, mp3-CD playback and steering wheel audio controls. Additionally, the FX is pre-wired for the optional iPod® accessory cable. Also standard is RearView Monitor, which, when reverse gear is selected, projects a view of what's behind the FX onto the display monitor using a small camera mounted near the rear license plate. The 2008 fx50 adds standard moonroof, HomeLink Universal Garage Door Opener (UGDO), auto on/off headlamps, Intelligent Key, Bluetooth hands-free phone system, wood and aluminum trim, aluminum roof rails and cargo net and cover. A number of special high tech features are also available, including an advanced DVD-based Infiniti Navigation System and Intelligent Key with keyless entry and push button start (standard on fx50). The available Infiniti Mobile Entertainment System features a DVD player with a 7.0-inch roof-mounted flip-down rear LCD screen.
Advanced Lane Departure Warning System Again available on the 2008 FX is the Infiniti Lane Departure Warning (LDW) system, which uses an audible signal to warn the driver of a pending, unintended lane departure. The system recognizes lane markings through the use of a small camera mounted in the headliner above the rearview mirror. The camera’s signal and the vehicle’s speed are sent to the system’s advanced microprocessing unit, which combines the information to calculate both the distance between the vehicle, the lane marking and the lateral velocity to the lane marking at speeds above 45 mph. A judgment is then made as to whether the vehicle is moving out of the lane (depending on the distance and lateral velocity to the lane). The Infiniti LDW system is temporarily disabled by driver activation of the vehicle’s turn signals, which informs the system’s control unit of intended lane changes. The system also features a manual cancel switch, which allows the driver to turn the system off when desired. The system automatically resets when the vehicle is restarted. Other safety features found on every 2008 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 and front-seat Active Head Restraints. FX is also equipped with the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system. The FX's SUV-enhanced FM platform Zone Body Construction is designed to help protect occupants in a collision by helping to absorb crash energy through use of front and rear crushable zones. In a high-speed frontal collision, for example, the crushable zone crumples while the engine is designed to move under the occupant compartment. This has the effect of expanding the crushable zone, thereby helping to reduce deceleration g-force and simultaneously helping minimize cabin deformation, especially in the lower leg area. In offset impacts, the body construction helps decrease the amount of cabin deformation. Other FX features that contribute to improved occupant safety include a breakaway brake pedal and double-wall bulkhead construction to help reduce lower leg injuries and a breakaway construction of the propeller shaft (connected with the engine-drop function). Models and Packages The fully equipped FX is offered in three engine/drive configurations: the V8-powered AWD fx50, the V6-powered AWD FX35 and the V6-powered rear-wheel drive FX35. In addition to the long list of equipment on the FX35, the fx50 includes additional standard equipment, including sport suspension tuning, 20-inch tires and unique aluminum-alloy wheels, aluminum roof rails, auto on/off headlights, Bluetooth hands-free phone system, moonroof, Intelligent Key, tinted exterior lamp lenses and dark chrome exterior accents, wood and aluminum interior trim, aluminum pedals (accelerator, brake and footrest) and a unique V8 engine cover. The FX35 Sport Package includes 20-inch wheels with all-season tires, sport-tuned suspension, aluminum pedals and aluminum roof rails, etched aluminum interior trim, tinted headlights and taillights and dark chrome exterior accents. The Technology Package (available on all models) adds the Infiniti Navigation System, Intelligent Cruise Control with Brake Assist and Preview Braking and the Lane Departure Warning system. Also available on all models is the Infiniti DVD Mobile Entertainment System. Available on FX35 (standard on fx50) is the Hands-Free Package, which includes Bluetooth hands-free phone system and Infiniti Intelligent Key. FX35 also offers a Touring Package with moonroof, HomeLink®, auto on/off headlamps and cargo net. Also available is the Run Flat Tire Package, which replaces the standard tires with run-flat tires, deletes the spare tire for more under cargo area storage, and modifies the suspension tuning to compensate for the different ride characteristics of run-flat tires. The 2009 Infiniti FX50 and FX35 arrive here at Infiniti of Scottsdale in June! The car magazines and industry press is already full of raves! Our “bionic cheetah” becomes even edgier, even more technologically advanced, and even more powerful. The new look, 390 horsepower and the industry’s leading technology makes the ’09 FX a driver’s dream. The style will turn heads, the power will take your breath away and the safety and convenience of Infiniti cutting-edge technology will stylishly whisk you away rapidly in safety and comfort. We have 17 FX's ordered and most are still available for sale. Contact us for more information including the exact Trim Levels and Packages ordered.
---------------------------------------- more photos below ----------------------------------- The NEW FX50 & NEW FX35 - Arriving June 2008
AT A GLANCE The Infiniti FX represents a fusion of sports car and SUV, with breathtaking styling, sports car-like proportions and a sports car platform.
The all-new Infiniti FX50 will be available here at Infiniti of Scottsdale in June 2008. The V8-equipped FX50 will be joined by a V6-equipped FX35.
FX PRODUCT CONCEPT
In keeping with Infiniti’s well defined product strategy, the new FX is inviting in every dimension, from the nimble feel of its quick and controlled response to driver input, to the ride comfort provided by its Dual Flow Pass shock absorbers and quick response to body motion inputs, to the unique “Infiniti feel” under acceleration and braking. Infiniti’s designers and engineers’ overall goal in the development of the second-generation FX crossover was to enhance its “sports car ability” while adding refinement – without compromising either side of the equation. The new FX’s creators also wanted to give the vehicle a more “human” feel, despite its mechanical strengths, by integrating the latest technology with owners’ lifestyles. The new FX50 is designed to be highly adaptive to both the driver and driving conditions, utilizing a long list of Infiniti technologies and systems.
2009 INFINITI FX EXTERIOR
The new Infiniti FX continues with the breathtaking exterior styling and “sports car proportions” that helped the original stand out from all other performance luxury crossovers on the market. The FX blends the substantial lower body of an SUV with the long hood, stretched wheelbase, short front and rear overhangs, low overall height and elegant upper body more commonly found on sports cars – conveying its strong performance personality and breakthrough design architecture at a single glance.
For the new FX generation, distinctive side air vents have been added behind the front wheels. Also, the front wheels have been moved 1.4 inches forward (from the previous generation FX) and the front track has been widened by a full 2 inches – providing an even more pronounced performance stance.
The FX’s design starts with a new front end appearance, led by a lustrous Infiniti signature double-arch front grille, standard fog lamps and Bi-Xenon headlights. The FX50 also includes an automatic-on feature that switches on the headlights automatically on at dusk and a standard Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS). This system automatically controls the lighting pattern and directional aim, based on steering wheel angle and vehicle speed (the headlights can swivel headlights up to 17 degrees).
The FX’s new flat blade windshield wipers and wiper arm design optimize aerodynamic performance – helping improve wiping performance at high speeds and reducing wind noise at high speed. A new rain-sensing feature automatically tunes the wiper pace and speed according to the frequency of the precipitation (as detected by sensors).
The new side air vents are also functional, allowing air to flow from inside the engine compartment to outside the vehicle, reducing high under-hood air pressure. The side vents reduce front end lift by five percent for improved high speed stability.
The Infiniti FX’s aggressive silhouette is highlighted by a strong front-to-rear shoulder line, “taut canopy” greenhouse with chromed window frames, rearward-sloping roofline, integrated rear spoiler and polished roof rails. In the rear, the FX’s simple, bold appearance features LED taillights that extend beyond the body to help create aerodynamic down force and large dual exhaust outlets with chrome finishers.
The FX’s coefficient of drag has been improved to 0.35 from 0.37, with the engineers finessing even the smallest details to help manage airflow, including the front bumper sides, rear spoiler angle and taillight shape.
Under the FX’s polished, assertive styling is an equally advanced body structure. FX utilizes the rigid FM (Front Midship) platform architecture used on the Infiniti G35, G37 Coupe. The FM platform offers sports car-like front-to-rear weight balance – 54/46 – for exceptional handling.
Additional development was undertaken to reduce weight and enhance body strength. For example, the FX’s aluminum front and rear door panels, which have the same strength and stiffness of conventional steel doors, are 44 pounds lighter (total for all four doors), allowing the FX to maintain a power-to-weight ratio that is among the best in class. The FX weighs 198 pounds less in body structure weight alone. The new FX’s body is also 1.6 times more resistant to twisting and 3.4 times more resistant to bending than the previous generation FX design.
The new FX utilizes Infiniti’s advanced “Scratch Shield” paint, a special “self-healing” clearcoat paint designed to maintain its gloss-level over time. The paint “repairs” fine scratches, such as fingernail scratches under door handles, restoring the FX’s surface close to its original state. The
FX50 is being offered in seven exterior colors. Contact us directly here at Infiniti of Scottsdale and we’ll set a time to go over the color chips with you.
2009 INFINITI FX INTERIOR
The Infiniti FX’s sporty interior is designed to combine a driver-oriented cockpit/command center with a warm, modern, comfortable passenger environment – all wrapped in rich, natural materials. The high-tech interior design includes an Infiniti signature “double-wave” instrument panel and white-and-violet electroluminescent gauges.
The FX50 comes with a new front sport seat design with an adjustable air-type side support system for added lateral support during “sporty” driving sessions. The driver’s seat features 10-way power-adjustability with lumbar support and a 2-position Driver’s Seat Memory system, while the passenger’s seat is an 8-way power-adjustable design. Covered in a special quilted leather sew pattern, the front sport seats include adjustable thigh extensions, which add an extra level of comfort for drivers and passengers with long legs or for long distance travel. Whereas the front seats include an enhanced climate controlled system with heating and cooling functions for maximum comfort.
Standard on the FX50 is a new Automatic Driving Position System, which moves the seat, steering wheel and outside mirrors adaptively into the correct position. This system allows the driver to change the seat position while driving and keep the same viewpoint and relationship between the steering column and driver’s shoulder position.
The FX interior offers white-and-violet “Fine Vision” electroluminescent gauges with “gear-like” rings on the instrument cluster meters, standard 8.0-inch multi-information display monitor and signature Infiniti analog clock. The center console/shifter area is available in a black quartz finisher or special Curly Maple wood trim, inspired by classical violins, giving a sense of warmth throughout.
The FX interior also offers a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, along with front door pockets, front seatback pockets, dual front and rear cup holders, locking glove compartment and four assist grips. Other standard equipment includes four 12-volt power outlets, all power windows with one-touch up/down function and power door locks, cargo area cover and cargo multi partition net, along with aluminum pedals, power tilt and telescoping steering wheel, Infiniti Intelligent Key with push button start and a special 12-point “welcome lighting” system.
The thoughtful design behind the interior of the Infiniti FX extends to the available custom-engineered Bose sound system. The acoustic effect of nearly every interior detail was analyzed. Then, the 11-speaker system was customized for the unique acoustic environment inside the FX. As a result, each listener can enjoy music that approaches the power and emotion of a concert hall performance.”
Occupant comfort takes many forms in the new FX50, including the air that driver and passengers breathe. A standard filter, using fiber impregnated with natural grape seed polyphenol, has the ability to neutralize allergens that conventional filters cannot remove due to their incredibly small size (0.3 to 0.5 microns).
The FX50’s advanced Infiniti Navigation System features a 7-language media display, along with an advanced XM radio with real-time traffic information system. A Voice Recognition system comes with the navigation system and includes voice activation for common climate control, navigation, audio system and phone functions.
INFINITI FX50 DRIVETRAIN
The Infiniti FX50 features a new powerplant, which makes it debut on this model – an advanced 5.0-liter V8 that is mounted low in the chassis to help lower the FX50’s center of gravity. The engine design includes twin symmetrical air intakes, microfinished crankshaft, lightweight pistons, super-silent cam drive chains and an electrically driven cooling fan to help optimize performance.
The goals for the development of the FX50’s all-new VK50VE V8 started with outstanding power output – 390 horsepower – a high rev limit, a powerful engine sound from a specially tuned exhaust and improved fuel economy versus the previous generation FX45. Even small details were evaluated in designing the new engine, including control of oil mist density in crankcase for reduced friction.
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 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 (CVTC), allow for a 6,900 rpm redline and a high compression ratio of 10.9:1.
The FX50 is comes standard with a new seven-speed automatic gear box with Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) allowing a downshift blip control. FX50’s standard magnesium paddle shifters 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 VDC (Electronic Stability Control) system with Traction Control System (TCS) is standard on all FX models. VDC adjusts brake pressure and engine torque automatically in understeer, oversteer or slippery road surface situations, helping the driver keep the intended path. A cancel switch allows the driver to switch off the ESP system when desired.
The FX50 is equipped with Infiniti’s intelligent four-wheel drive system called ATTESA E-TS (Advanced Total Traction Engineering System for All Electronic Torque Split), 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.
When the FX50 accelerates from a standing stop, the ATTESA E-TS system provides power to all four wheels. Once up to speed, if the system’s sensors detect that all-wheel drive is not needed, up to 100 percent of the power is sent to the rear wheels. This rear-bias offers better handling balance and improved fuel efficiency. The system can then divert power forward at any time as traction/road conditions dictate, helping ensure that power always goes where grip is the greatest.
The FX50's dynamic handling is a result of its suspension using light weight and aluminium components in the front and rear to reduce unsprung weight (weight not supported by the springs), helping to improve both ride and handling.
The new double-wishbone front suspension design, similar to that utilized on the Infiniti G37 and G37 Coupe, replaces the previous generation FX’s front strut-type suspension. The suspension’s upper and lower A-arms help provide superior control of a wheel’s motion, especially when the suspension compresses and extends, providing more travel than the previous strut design. The net result is a better ride and improved handling.
The FX50’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. A lightweight, high-strength steel rear subframe is utilized to isolate the FX’s body and its passengers from road noise and vibrations. Its compact design benefits to room in the rear passenger and cargo area. Large diameter stabilizer bars are utilized front and rear. The suspension system also incorporates special “dual flow pass” shock absorber technology with rebound springs for responsive yet comfortable ride and firm, tight handling.
The new FX50 includes standard active Continuous Damping Control (CDC) system with special electronically controlled shock absorbers. Unlike conventional fixed damping force shock absorbers, the suspension with active Continuous Damping Control (CDC) takes the input from a variety of sensors and continuously alters the damping of the shocks to provide optimal ride and handling. The system features a driver-selectable switch with two settings, “Auto” and “Sport,” allowing the driver to control the shock valving levels.
The FX50’s standard Rear Active Steer system is the first of its kind available in an SUV. Unlike passive rear steering systems, this design features 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. Rear Active Steer moves the FX50’s rear wheels in accordance with the front-wheel steering angle and vehicle speed, rather than passively following the front wheels. The result is a vehicle that is able to change direction with improved quickness, precision and stability.
The new FX maintains its small turning circle (37 feet) despite its larger wheel and tire package. Its engineers focused on improving steering feedback from the advanced speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion power steering system and reduced “play” in the steering mechanism for more direct vehicle response to steering input.
Secure braking performance is provided by the FX50’s 4-wheel ventilated disc brakes with Brake Assist (BA) and Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD). The FX50 system features 4-piston front/2-piston rear calipers, similar to those utilized on the new Infiniti G37 Coupé, and large brake rotors (355x22 mm front/350x20 mm rear). Braking system dimensions and high thermal capacity have been tailored specifically to high temperature driving needs, providing a secure and stable feeling at very high speeds and high deceleration rates.
The FX50 features metallic-finish six-spoke cast-alloy 9.5Jx21-inch wheels made by Enkei. These 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 performance tires.
INFINITI FX50 TECHNOLOGY AND SAFETY SYSTEMS
The new Infiniti FX50 offers a wide range of advanced available technology and safety systems, helping reinforce the strong sense of communication between the FX50 and its driver – as well as providing a secure and inviting feel.
The FX50 comes standard with the unique Infiniti Around View Monitor utilizes four small superwide-angle cameras – mounted on the front, side and rear of the FX50 – 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 FX50 for parallel parking by simultaneously confirming the exact placement of the front and rear of the vehicle. The system includes front and rear sonar sensors for camera assistance, also displayed in an easily understandable fashion on the display.
The FX50’s standard Intelligent Cruise Control (Full Speed range) system combines the brakes, throttle and laser rangefinder with the cruise control system to automatically maintain a set distance between the FX50 and a vehicle in front of it. FX50’s Intelligent Cruise Control operates in “Full Speed Range” (from 0 mph) hence reducing the driver’s workload in congested traffic as well as smooth long distance travel. The Intelligent Cruise Control assists the driver with acceleration and deceleration actions and stops the FX50 if traffic requires.
Standard on the FX50’s, Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) system uses the laser rangefinder from the Intelligent Cruise Control’s (ICC) system and analyzes closing speeds to a vehicle ahead to help prevent or reduce damage caused by a rear-end collision. If a forward collision is imminent with the vehicle in front of the FX50 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 driver’s action, the system activates the 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).
The FX's enhanced FM platform Zone Body Construction is designed to help protect occupants in a collision by helping to absorb crash energy through use of front and rear crushable zones. In a high-speed frontal collision, for example, the crushable zone crumples while the engine is designed to move under the occupant compartment. This has the effect of expanding the crushable zone, thereby helping to reduce deceleration g-force and simultaneously helping minimize cabin deformation, especially in the lower leg area. In offset impacts, the body construction helps decrease the amount of cabin deformation. Special high-resistance steel is used for light weight and improved strength.
As with all Infiniti vehicles, significant time was spent to ensure excellent passenger safety. The first-generation FX received 5 Stars for all measures in the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) testing, and the new second-generation FX is expected to offer similar or better occupant protection.
Other standard safety features found on the FX50 include a seat belt reminder system; airbags for driver and front passenger with front hip-thorax side airbags and front-to-rear curtain airbag for rear passengers. Also standard are 3-point front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, front seat Active Head Restraints.
The FX50 also features a breakaway brake pedal and double-wall bulkhead construction to help reduce lower leg injuries and a breakaway construction of the propeller shaft (connected with the engine-drop function).
The FX50’s standard Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) uses pressure sensors with transmitters mounted inside each wheel, which transmit data by radio wave to a control module, sending tire pressure information to a center display indicator on the FX50’s information panel. A warning lamp and display indicates when a low tire pressure condition (less than 75 percent of normal pressure) is detected.
MODELS AND OPTIONS
The new Infiniti FX50 will be offered with a 5.0-liter V8 powerplant and intelligent all-wheel drive and is equipped with exceptional level of standard equipment. Exact details and availability will be announced at a later stage by each market. The FX50 will be joined by a V6 powered model, details of which will also be announced later.
The new Infiniti FX50 is a radical expression of sport and utility – designed to stand out by every measure. With the most highly demanded features in class included as standard equipment, FX50 combines advanced technology with exceptional levels of performance, style, luxury, safety and quality.
|
|||||||||||||||
|