The Infiniti FX is the Nissan-owned company's mid-size luxury crossover SUV. It was released back in 2003, along with its main competitors, the Porsche Cayenne and Volvo XC90. Its first generation lasted six years on the market before it was revamped and given another chance at increasing sales for the Japanese automaker.

The second generation Infiniti FX->ke1260 was launched on the market in 2009, and despite the fact that it has had a less than stellar performance, its sales are still stable and have lead Infiniti->ke36 in their expansion to new markets all over the world. For the 2012 model year, the FX has been revised with subtle styling changes inspired by the Essence Concept and has received an extra version in the "Limited Edition" for the FX35 AWD.

Hit the jump to read more about the 2009-2012 Infiniti FX.

2009 - 2012 Infiniti FX

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2009 - 2012 Infiniti FX
  • Engine/Motor: V8
  • Horsepower: 390 @ 6,500
  • Torque: 369 lb-ft @ 4,400
  • Transmission: 7-speed electronically controlled
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior and Interior

2009-2011 Infiniti FX

The second generation launched in 2009 came with a new front end appearance, led by a black chrome double-arch front grille, standard fog lamps and iconic High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-functional projector headlights. Side air vents were also added behind the front wheels, while the window frames received a chrome treatment. At the rear, the model received LED taillights and large dual exhaust outlets with chrome finishers.

For the interior, the most striking elements were an Infiniti signature "double-wave" instrument panel and white/violet Fine Vision electroluminescent gauges. Another new addition was the 7.0-inch multi-information display monitor. The sporty appearance of the SUV was further improved thanks to the addition of a three-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel and aluminum-accented shift knob.

2012 Infiniti FX

While the Infiniti FX is no doubt a very successful model, things had to be improved if the company wanted to stay on top of the market. As a result, for the 2012 model year, the FX has been improved with a revised front grille and front fascia design, revised meter illumination, and standard heated front seats on all models.

The SUV's bold new front grille and fascia design have been influenced by the stunning Infiniti Essence Concept. The new front is combined with fog lamps and iconic High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-functional xenon headlights, a strong front-to-rear shoulder line, tight greenhouse, kicked-back roofline, and integrated rear spoiler.

The interior has been specially designed to help the driver. It features a command center-style cockpit and an automatic driving position system, which moves the steering wheel and outside mirrors adaptively into the correct position when the seat is adjusted.

The Limited Edition will be distinguished by an exclusive Iridium Blue exterior color, 21" 10-spoke aluminum-alloy graphite finish wheels with P265/45R21 V-rated all-season tires, dark tinted headlights with Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) and auto-leveling, and dark tinted side air vents and lower door trim.

Engine

2009-2011 Infiniti FX

For the 2009 model year, the Infiniti FX was launched with two different configurations: FX50 and FX35. The base version was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine with an output of 303HP at 6,800 rpm (versus the previous generation FX35’s 275 HP) and 262 lb-ft of torque at 4800 rpm. The FX50 featured a 5.0-liter V8 engine that outputs a total of 390 HP at 6,500 rpm and 369 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm (versus the previous generation FX45’s 320 HP and 335 lb-ft of torque). Both engines could have been had with a standard all-new 7-speed transmission, the first ever offered on an Infiniti vehicle.

2012 Infiniti FX

Under the hood of the 2012 model, everything remained the same. The FX35 is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine with an output of 303-HP and 262 lb-ft of torque, while the FX50 gets the same 390 HP V8 engine. The only difference is that for the 2012 model year, the company is offering only one transmission: a refined 7-speed transmission that offers both 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).

Prices

Models

FX35 RWD $43,450 3.5L V6 7-spd auto w/ manual shift mode
FX35 AWD $44,900 3.5L V6 7-spd auto w/ manual shift mode
FX50 AWD $59,350 5.0L V8 7-spd auto w/ manual shift mode
FX35 AWD Limited Edition $51,550 3.5L V6 7-spd auto w/ manual shift mode


Packages

Technology Package $2,900
Deluxe Touring Package $3,150
Premium Package $3,950
Sport Package $3,100


Accessories

Splash Guards $165
Roof Rail Crossbars $330
Stainless Steel Rear Bumper Protector $260
Dual DVD Headrest Restraint Monitors $1,515
Cargo Area Organizer and Protector $225
Tonneau Cover $390
Cargo Net and First Aid Kit $90
Stainless Steel Illuminated Kick Plates $300
Vehicle Alarm Impact Sensor $140
First Aid Kit $35
Tow Package $695


Competition

While we find it more elegant and better looking than its German competitors, the Infiniti FX is still not as successful as models like the Audi Q7->ke1083 or the BMW X5->ke326. This may be a pure case of brand loyalty, or snobbery depending on how you look at it. The Infiniti FX has been taken on test drives and has provided the same smooth acceleration, tight handling, and firm ride as any of the other two models. The FX is also cheaper than it German pals: the Q7 starts from $46,250 and the X5 from $47,200.