Detroit, Michigan - Describing it as an "SUV with the essence of a sports car...conceived on the theme of a "Bionic Cheetah," Infiniti showed the new V8-powered FX45 and V6-powered FX35 production models.
The all-wheel drive FX45 is powered by a 315-horsepower 4.5-litre V8 (based on the 2002 Infiniti Q45 powerplant) and features standard 20-inch wheels and tires, leather seating and a sport-tuned 4-wheel independent suspension. Also offered is a 280-horsepower 3.5-litre V6-equipped version, the FX35. The FX35 V6 is shared with the Infiniti G35 sport coupe and sport sedan. All FX45 models utilize a modified version of the advanced FM (Front Mid-ship) platform enhanced for SUV duties.
Inside, the FX45 provides a personalized interior environment with cockpit-like styling, sports seats and extensive use of real aluminum trim accents. Other available equipment includes a DVD-based Infiniti Navigation System, rear seat DVD Mobile Entertainment System with wireless headphones and remote control, RearView Monitor, Intelligent Key, Tire Pressure Monitor System and Intelligent Cruise Control. The FX45 goes on sale at Infiniti dealerships beginning in late January 2003.
Highlights:
Click image to enlarge
2850 mm (112.2-inch) long wheelbase, wide track and aggressive stance, long hoodline and Infiniti signature grille
Lightweight cargo door with electromagnetic opener switch and automatic back door closure assist system
32-valve 4.5-litre DOHC V8 producing 315 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque (FX45) or 24-valve 3.5-litre DOHC V6 producing 280 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque (FX35)
5-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with manual shift mode
Front engine/all-wheel drive (FX45/FX35) or optional rear-wheel drive (FX35)
ATTESA E-TS AWD system (Advanced Total Traction Engineering System for All Electronic Torque Split)
4-wheel independent suspension with front strut and rear multi-link design, extensive use of lightweight aluminum components, front upper link and rear subframe
Engine speed-sensitive power rack-and-pinion steering
Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Traction Control System (TCS)
4-wheel power-assisted vented disc brakes, 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA) and Preview braking (available with Intelligent Cruise Control - I.C.C.)
20-inch 8-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels with 265/50R20 all-season tires (FX45, available on FX35)
18-inch 7-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels with 265/60R18 all-season tires (FX35)
Available Tire Pressure Monitor System
cockpit-like styling, sports-style seats and sports car-like controls and steering wheel
Personalized Zone Concept with the creation of three distinct zones: driver, front and rear passengers
Extensive use of real aluminum trim on centre console, shifter area, steering wheel spokes and doors
Remote flip-down 60/40-split fold-down rear seats, large rear cargo area with underfloor storage
Large information monitor (6.3 inches, 7.0 inches with DVD navigation system)
Dual sliding armrests for driver and passenger, large console, rear center armrest tray and storage
300-watt Bose audio system with 11 speakers, 6-CD in-dash autochanger
Available Intelligent Key with keyless entry and engine start
Available Intelligent Cruise Control
Available Rear-view Monitor
Dual-zone front climate controls, rear air conditioning vents located in the B-pillars
Signature Infiniti analog clock
Front seat supplemental air bags, roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags for front and rear seat occupant head protection
Exterior and interior designed at Nissan Technical Center in Atsugi, Japan
Assembled by Nissan Shatai Co., Ltd. in Kanagawa, Japan