Infiniti FX
Encyclopedia
The Infiniti FX is a mid-size luxury crossover SUV
produced by the Nissan-owned Infiniti
luxury vehicle brand since the 2003 model year. The FX replaced the QX4 as Infiniti's mid-size luxury-type SUV, although the QX4 was smaller than the FX. It was released at the same time as its competitors, the Porsche Cayenne
and Volvo XC90
. It shares the same FM platform
as the rear-wheel drive Nissan 370Z
, whereas the similarly sized Nissan Murano
is based on the same D platform
as the front-wheel drive
Nissan Altima
. The FX and QX56, whose platform is shared with the Nissan Armada
, are not sold in Japan.
The FX has been described as having the profile of a "giant scarab" or a "Bionic cheetah". Its designers sought what they called a "cool fusion" – the blending of a substantial SUV lower body with the sleek, elegant upper body more reminiscent of a classic sports car or sports GT. In addition, they sought to combine sports-car performance with SUV functionality. The FX is now in its second generation, since the 2009 model year FX35 and FX50.
which in part optimizes the opening of intake valves. This is also coupled with an electronically controlled super-wide ratio five-speed automatic
with a manumatic shift mode that includes the option of sequentially selected manual gearshifts and downshift rev matching.
The FX45 incorporates a 4.5-liter (4,494 cc) 32-valve V8 DOHC VK45DE gasoline engine with four valves per cylinder, microfinished camshafts with aluminum-alloy block and heads, low-friction molybdenum
-coated pistons, titanium intake and exhaust valves, modular cylinder heads, microfinished crankshaft, lightweight pistons, super-silent single stage cam drive chain, and a Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System that optimizes opening of intake valves.
Total 2007 sales of the FX45 numbered just 1,598 units, about a tenth of the FX35s.
The FX series was updated for 2006 with new options and standard features. The updates included an exterior facelift with new grille, bumper, wheel design and three new exterior colors, and inside a revised center console with new color screen. Many features previously optional were made standard, including the 300-watt Bose audio system, RearView Monitor, 7-inch color display, Advanced Air Bag System (AABS), leather seating surfaces with heated front seats, 10-way power driver’s seat with power lumbar support and 8-way power passenger’s seat.
The FX45 featured additional upgrades, including new 20-inch wheels, leather-appointed seats, a revised sport-tuned 4-wheel independent suspension with new dampers, a Bluetooth
system, and the Premium Package became standard. The taillights on Sport Package equipped FX35 models and all FX45 models were changed from red to clear.
The Infiniti FX was the first passenger vehicle to offer a lane departure warning system
in the United States market. Infiniti's version uses a camera that watches the lane markings to alert everyone in the car via an audible buzzer that the driver is drifting unintentionally.
FX45:
The exterior retains some of the first generation's "Bionic Cheetah" look and "giant scarab" profile, while incorporating new styling cues. Some of the most distinct features of the new FX are the longer, sharklike sculpted headlights, a large trapezoidal grille filled with horizontal dark-chrome waves, and completely functional side air vents. The overall size and dimensions of the new model, both external and internal, remain similar to the previous model.
The interior was completely redesigned to bring the FX up to the level of luxury found inside of other Infiniti models like the G37 and EX35. Features include stitched leather seats, stained maple wood or piano black finishes, and matte-finish surfaces.
The FX comes with a new double-wishbone front suspension design, similar to that found on the G37 and EX35, 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 current FX is now 1.6 times more torsionally rigid and 3.4 times more resistant to bending than the previous model.
Pricing for the 2009 Infiniti FX37 in Europe starts at €55,950 ($79,437 USD).
. The engine was developed by the Renault-Nissan Alliance, and will also power the EX and M models.
This engine, which is the first diesel in Infiniti’s history, was specifically designed to deliver high levels of refined performance in line with Infiniti philosophy. Although a V8 diesel engine was entertained, the V6 format was selected early on as the ideal layout for the unit, providing the optimum balance between overall performance and refinement.
The engine produces a total of 240 hp and class-leading 406 lb·ft of torque. Peak torque can be achieved from as low as 1,750 rpm and is available all the way to 2,500 rpm, while as much as 370 lb·ft is available from a mere 1,500 rpm. Idle speed is an exceptionally low 650 rpm with none of the noise, vibration, or harshness
usually associated with a diesel.
Other standard features include Scratch Shield paint (first introduced on the Infiniti EX
), black lacquer interior trim, high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps, LED brake lamps, 12-point sequential welcome lighting, electronic liftgate closure assist, automatic dimming rear-view mirror with compass, glass moonroof, rear privacy glass, integrated rear spoiler, and dual chrome exhaust tips.
Standard safety features include dual front air bags, side impact air bags, and rear curtain airbags with rollover sensor, as well as Zone Body construction with front and rear crumple zones.
Options include Infiniti's Hard Drive Navigation with touch screen and 3D building images, All-Around View Monitor (first introduced on the Infiniti EX
) which displays a virtual bird's-eye view of the vehicle and surroundings to aide in parking, and Intelligent Cruise Control, which provides the benefits of standard cruise control with the ability to add speed and distance intervals, as well as automatically slowing the vehicle in slowing traffic to help provide a safe distance. When traffic flow ahead speeds up, Intelligent Cruise Control then reaccelerates to the preset speed and distance settings. Optional industry-first Distance Control Assist intuitively helps the driver release the throttle and apply the brakes as needed in slowing traffic. Another option, Forward Collision Warning uses the Intelligent Cruise system's laser range finder to alert the driver of a potential collision, and if the driver does not respond, Brake Assist automatically engages the brakes to help reduce collision speed and impact. The Premium Package adds heated and cooled front seats, a power adjustable steering wheel, iPod
integration system, folding outdoor mirrors, and aluminum paddle shifters to adjust the gears when using the manual shift mode.
The FX35 (U.S.) is available in both rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configuration, while the FX35 (Canada), FX37 (Europe) and FX50 (all) come standard with all-wheel drive. The FX uses Nissan's ATTESA
E-TS all-wheel drive system.
All FX50 models ordered with the Sport package (FX50S) come equipped with Active Steering package. This package features a planetary gearset on the steering shaft (similar to BMW), that varies the steering ratio between 12.0:1 and 18.5:1. The package also includes a rear-wheel steering system that induces up to one degree of steer to the rear wheels, to provide increased handling response for the vehicle.
A new trim for 2012 is the FX35 Limited Edition. With only 550 units being produced, the Limited Edition features all-wheel drive, an exclusive Iridium Blue exterior color, 21-inch 10-spoke graphite-finish aluminum turbine wheels, V-rated all-season tires, Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System, Around View® Monitor, dark tinted adaptive headlamps, and dark tinted side air vents and lower door trim.
Other enhancements for 2012 include a new exterior color, Graphite Shadow (replaces Platinum Graphite), a new 20-inch wheel design for the FX35 Deluxe Touring Package, the addition of Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) to the FX50 Sport Package, and a shift of the quilted leather climate-controlled front seats to the FX35 Deluxe Touring Package from the Premium Package.
regarding the possibility of a Formula 1-inspired FX. Vettel, who already owned his own FX50, expressed his interest in the performance capabilities of the FX platform. As a result of 6 months of intense research and development
, the 2012 Infiniti FX Sebastian Vettel Version Concept was officially unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show on September 13, 2011.
Distinctive features of the Sebastian Vettel Version include matte white exterior color, F1-inspired carbon fiber front air dam with white LED running lights, F1-inspired side skirts and rear air dam, 21-inch 10-spoke black-finish aluminum wheels, dark tinted adaptive headlamps, dark tinted rear tail lamps, satin aluminum door handles, side air vents and exterior trim, carbon fiber rear wing, carbon fiber interior trim, F1-inspired steering wheel and suede seating surfaces. The vehicle has unique Sebastian Vettel badging on the side fenders, rear liftgate, interior center console and embroidered front seats.
Vettel made it very clear to Infiniti designers that any FX bearing his name needed to be performance-oriented. Therefore, the Sebastian Vettel Version incorporates the same 5.0-liter 32-valve V8 DOHC VK50VE as the FX50; however with reflashing the engine's computer and adding a new exhaust system, engineers were able to boost the output to 414 hp. Vettel worked with Infiniti engineers to transform the FX50 into a lower, sleeker machine; the front air dam provides increased downforce, and the vehicle sits 20 millimeters lower and has 30 percent improved coefficient of drag than the standard FX. With this increase in horsepower, better aerodynamics and taller gearing, Infiniti says the Sebastian Vettel Version accelerates from 0-60 miles per hour in under 5 seconds, with a top speed of 186 miles per hour (300 kilometers per hour).
FX37 (Europe):
FX50:
Crossover SUV
A crossover SUV is a vehicle built on a car platform and combining, in highly variable degrees, features of a sport utility vehicle with features from a passenger vehicle, especially those of a station wagon or hatchback.Using the unibody construction typical of passenger vehicles, the crossover...
produced by the Nissan-owned Infiniti
Infiniti
is the luxury division of automaker Nissan. Infiniti officially started selling vehicles on November 8, 1989 in North America. Marketing operations have since grown to include the Middle East, South Korea, Russia, Taiwan, China, Ukraine and the United Kingdom. Infiniti began sales in additional...
luxury vehicle brand since the 2003 model year. The FX replaced the QX4 as Infiniti's mid-size luxury-type SUV, although the QX4 was smaller than the FX. It was released at the same time as its competitors, the Porsche Cayenne
Porsche Cayenne
The Porsche Cayenne is a five seat mid-size luxury crossover manufactured by the German manufacturer Porsche since 2002, with North American sales beginning in 2003. Its platform was developed by Porsche and is shared with the Volkswagen Touareg and the Audi Q7. It is the first V8-engined vehicle...
and Volvo XC90
Volvo XC90
The Volvo XC90 is a mid-size luxury crossover SUV produced by Volvo Cars since it was unveiled at the Detroit Motor Show 2002. It is based on the P2 platform, shared with the first generation Volvo S80 and other large Volvo cars...
. It shares the same FM platform
Nissan FM platform
The Nissan FM platform is a modern FR automobile layout. The name is derived from the "front midships" location of the engine, referring to the engine's center of mass being located behind the front axle centerline, shifting weight to the middle of the car, leaving the front suspension less...
as the rear-wheel drive Nissan 370Z
Nissan 370Z
The Nissan 370Z is a sports car manufactured by Nissan Motors. It was announced on October 29, 2008 and was first shown at an event in Los Angeles ahead of the 2008 Greater LA Auto Show, before being officially unveiled at the show itself...
, whereas the similarly sized Nissan Murano
Nissan Murano
The first generation Nissan Murano was powered by a 3.5 litre 245 bhp V6 engine, also used in several other Nissan models like the Altima, Maxima, and Nissan 350Z, but specifically tuned for use in the Murano. Available with standard front-wheel-drive and optional all-wheel-drive , the Nissan...
is based on the same D platform
Nissan D platform
The D platform is a front wheel drive automobile platform for midsized cars from Nissan. Slightly smaller than Nissan FF-L platform.-Models:* 2007+ Nissan Altima* 2008+ Nissan Teana* 2008+ Nissan Murano* 2008+ Renault Laguna III* 2009+ Nissan Maxima...
as the front-wheel drive
Front-wheel drive
Front-wheel drive is a form of engine/transmission layout used in motor vehicles, where the engine drives the front wheels only. Most modern front-wheel drive vehicles feature a transverse engine, rather than the conventional longitudinal engine arrangement generally found in rear-wheel drive and...
Nissan Altima
Nissan Altima
The Nissan Altima is a mid-size automobile manufactured by Nissan, and is arguably a continuation of the Nissan Bluebird line, which began in 1957. It has historically been larger, more powerful, and more luxurious than the Nissan Sentra but less so than the Nissan Maxima. The Altima is available...
. The FX and QX56, whose platform is shared with the Nissan Armada
Nissan Armada
The Nissan Armada is Nissan's full-size SUV. It shares its body-on-frame F-Alpha platform with the Nissan Titan pickup truck, Nissan Xterra SUV, Nissan Frontier pickup truck, and Nissan Pathfinder SUV. An upscale version of the Armada was sold as the Infiniti QX56 from 2004 to 2010, when it...
, are not sold in Japan.
The FX has been described as having the profile of a "giant scarab" or a "Bionic cheetah". Its designers sought what they called a "cool fusion" – the blending of a substantial SUV lower body with the sleek, elegant upper body more reminiscent of a classic sports car or sports GT. In addition, they sought to combine sports-car performance with SUV functionality. The FX is now in its second generation, since the 2009 model year FX35 and FX50.
First generation (S50, 2003–2008)
The nameplates FX35 and FX45 refer to the two available engines. The FX35 is available in two drivetrains, the RWD and the AWD, which are both fitted to a dual overhead cam 3.5-liter 24-valve V6 VQ35DE gasoline engine, with aluminum-alloy block and heads, electronically controlled “drive-by-wire” throttle system, and low-friction molybdenum-coated pistons that makes use of the continuous variable valve timingContinuous variable valve timing
Continuous variable valve timing offers a unique ability to have independent control of the intake and exhaust valves in an internal combustion engine. For any engine load criteria, the timing of intake and exhaust can be independently programmed...
which in part optimizes the opening of intake valves. This is also coupled with an electronically controlled super-wide ratio five-speed automatic
Automatic transmission
An automatic transmission is one type of motor vehicle transmission that can automatically change gear ratios as the vehicle moves, freeing the driver from having to shift gears manually...
with a manumatic shift mode that includes the option of sequentially selected manual gearshifts and downshift rev matching.
The FX45 incorporates a 4.5-liter (4,494 cc) 32-valve V8 DOHC VK45DE gasoline engine with four valves per cylinder, microfinished camshafts with aluminum-alloy block and heads, low-friction molybdenum
Molybdenum
Molybdenum , is a Group 6 chemical element with the symbol Mo and atomic number 42. The name is from Neo-Latin Molybdaenum, from Ancient Greek , meaning lead, itself proposed as a loanword from Anatolian Luvian and Lydian languages, since its ores were confused with lead ores...
-coated pistons, titanium intake and exhaust valves, modular cylinder heads, microfinished crankshaft, lightweight pistons, super-silent single stage cam drive chain, and a Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System that optimizes opening of intake valves.
Total 2007 sales of the FX45 numbered just 1,598 units, about a tenth of the FX35s.
2006 facelift
The FX45 featured additional upgrades, including new 20-inch wheels, leather-appointed seats, a revised sport-tuned 4-wheel independent suspension with new dampers, a Bluetooth
Bluetooth
Bluetooth is a proprietary open wireless technology standard for exchanging data over short distances from fixed and mobile devices, creating personal area networks with high levels of security...
system, and the Premium Package became standard. The taillights on Sport Package equipped FX35 models and all FX45 models were changed from red to clear.
The Infiniti FX was the first passenger vehicle to offer a lane departure warning system
Lane departure warning system
In road-transport terminology, a lane departure warning system is a mechanism designed to warn a driver when the vehicle begins to move out of its lane on freeways and arterial roads. These systems are designed to minimize accidents by addressing the main causes of collisions: driver error,...
in the United States market. Infiniti's version uses a camera that watches the lane markings to alert everyone in the car via an audible buzzer that the driver is drifting unintentionally.
Performance
FX35:- 0-60 mph (96.6 km/h): 7.1 seconds
- 0-100 mph (160.9 km/h): 17.5
- 1/4 mile: 15.5 seconds at 91 mph (146.5 km/h) Skidpad: .79g
- Top Speed: 137 mph (220.5 km/h) (drag limited)
FX45:
- 0-60 mph (96.6 km/h): 6.3 seconds
- 0-100 mph (160.9 km/h): 16.5 seconds
- 1/4 mile: 14.8 seconds at 95.1 mph (153 km/h) Skidpad: .82g
- Top Speed: 145 mph (233.4 km/h) (electronically limited)
Second generation (S51, 2009–)
The redesigned 2009 Infiniti FX was officially unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show on March 4, 2008, and went on sale in June 2008. The V6 model is still called the FX35 with the VQ35HR V6, however the V8 model has been renamed FX50 in recognition of its 5-liter engine with the newly-developed VK50VE.The exterior retains some of the first generation's "Bionic Cheetah" look and "giant scarab" profile, while incorporating new styling cues. Some of the most distinct features of the new FX are the longer, sharklike sculpted headlights, a large trapezoidal grille filled with horizontal dark-chrome waves, and completely functional side air vents. The overall size and dimensions of the new model, both external and internal, remain similar to the previous model.
The interior was completely redesigned to bring the FX up to the level of luxury found inside of other Infiniti models like the G37 and EX35. Features include stitched leather seats, stained maple wood or piano black finishes, and matte-finish surfaces.
The FX comes with a new double-wishbone front suspension design, similar to that found on the G37 and EX35, 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 current FX is now 1.6 times more torsionally rigid and 3.4 times more resistant to bending than the previous model.
FX37 (Europe)
A Europe-specific FX37 was unveiled at the 2008 Paris Motor Show, and went on sale in Europe in October, 2008 with the VQ37VHR. According to Jim Wright, Vice President Infiniti Europe, “FX37 is a significant model for Europe and we expect it to account for as much as 80 per cent of FX sales. By combining excellent handling and punchy performance with genuine luxury and SUV practicality, FX37 will appeal to customers who appreciate quality and individuality." Europeans get the 320-hp FX37 as their entry level model instead of the FX35, which will be available in FX37 GT and FX37S versions. The FX37 GT comes standard with 20-inch alloy wheels, electric and heated/ventilated front seats, adaptive xenons, parking camera sensors, all-wheel-drive and a 7-speed automatic with paddle shifting. The FX37S gets 21 inch alloy wheels, Continuous Damping Control and sports seats.Pricing for the 2009 Infiniti FX37 in Europe starts at €55,950 ($79,437 USD).
FX30d turbo diesel (Europe)
A Europe-specific FX30d was released in late 2010, powered by a new 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel V9X EngineV9X Engine
The V9X is a common rail V6 turbodiesel developed by the Renault-Nissan Alliance, and first installed in the Renault Laguna in 2009. It was subsequently made available for all longitudinal-engined vehicles, including Infiniti, Nissan Pathfinder, Nissan Navara, Infiniti FX, Infiniti EX, Infiniti M...
. The engine was developed by the Renault-Nissan Alliance, and will also power the EX and M models.
This engine, which is the first diesel in Infiniti’s history, was specifically designed to deliver high levels of refined performance in line with Infiniti philosophy. Although a V8 diesel engine was entertained, the V6 format was selected early on as the ideal layout for the unit, providing the optimum balance between overall performance and refinement.
The engine produces a total of 240 hp and class-leading 406 lb·ft of torque. Peak torque can be achieved from as low as 1,750 rpm and is available all the way to 2,500 rpm, while as much as 370 lb·ft is available from a mere 1,500 rpm. Idle speed is an exceptionally low 650 rpm with none of the noise, vibration, or harshness
NVH
NVH is a three-letter abbreviation with multiple meanings, including:*National R.V. Holdings*Noise, vibration, and harshness*Norwegian School of Veterinary Science...
usually associated with a diesel.
Equipment
Standard comfort features include dual-zone automatic climate control, a premium 11-speaker, 300 watt Bose stereo with in-dash 6 CD changer and 2GB hard drive, steering wheel mounted audio controls, premium leather seating surfaces, heated front bucket seats, heated power mirrors, 10-way power driver seat w/ lumbar adjustment, 8-way power passenger seat, individual driver memory system (drivers seat, side mirrors, and steering wheel positions), RearView back-up camera, UV reflective glass, and Infiniti's Intelligent Key system. The Intelligent Key design from the first generation FX now incorporates a Push Button Ignition system. With this system, the driver does not have to remove keys to drive the vehicle; a simple electronic fob carried on the driver allows the driver to lock/unlock and start the vehicle keyless.Other standard features include Scratch Shield paint (first introduced on the Infiniti EX
Infiniti EX
The Infiniti EX is a premium-type compact crossover SUV priced below the Infiniti FX. It is based on the same FM platform as the Infiniti G, M, and FX models.- Infiniti EX Concept :...
), black lacquer interior trim, high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps, LED brake lamps, 12-point sequential welcome lighting, electronic liftgate closure assist, automatic dimming rear-view mirror with compass, glass moonroof, rear privacy glass, integrated rear spoiler, and dual chrome exhaust tips.
Standard safety features include dual front air bags, side impact air bags, and rear curtain airbags with rollover sensor, as well as Zone Body construction with front and rear crumple zones.
Options include Infiniti's Hard Drive Navigation with touch screen and 3D building images, All-Around View Monitor (first introduced on the Infiniti EX
Infiniti EX
The Infiniti EX is a premium-type compact crossover SUV priced below the Infiniti FX. It is based on the same FM platform as the Infiniti G, M, and FX models.- Infiniti EX Concept :...
) which displays a virtual bird's-eye view of the vehicle and surroundings to aide in parking, and Intelligent Cruise Control, which provides the benefits of standard cruise control with the ability to add speed and distance intervals, as well as automatically slowing the vehicle in slowing traffic to help provide a safe distance. When traffic flow ahead speeds up, Intelligent Cruise Control then reaccelerates to the preset speed and distance settings. Optional industry-first Distance Control Assist intuitively helps the driver release the throttle and apply the brakes as needed in slowing traffic. Another option, Forward Collision Warning uses the Intelligent Cruise system's laser range finder to alert the driver of a potential collision, and if the driver does not respond, Brake Assist automatically engages the brakes to help reduce collision speed and impact. The Premium Package adds heated and cooled front seats, a power adjustable steering wheel, iPod
IPod
iPod is a line of portable media players created and marketed by Apple Inc. The product line-up currently consists of the hard drive-based iPod Classic, the touchscreen iPod Touch, the compact iPod Nano, and the ultra-compact iPod Shuffle...
integration system, folding outdoor mirrors, and aluminum paddle shifters to adjust the gears when using the manual shift mode.
Transmission and drivetrain
All 2009 FX models came standard with Infiniti's new 7-speed automatic transmission, which was also introduced on the 2009 G37 coupe. A much welcomed improvement over the previous 5-speed box, the 7-speed transmission delivers power more smoothly.The FX35 (U.S.) is available in both rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configuration, while the FX35 (Canada), FX37 (Europe) and FX50 (all) come standard with all-wheel drive. The FX uses Nissan's ATTESA
ATTESA
ATTESA is a four-wheel drive system used in some automobiles produced by the Japanese automaker Nissan, including some models under its luxury marque Infiniti.-ATTESA:...
E-TS all-wheel drive system.
All FX50 models ordered with the Sport package (FX50S) come equipped with Active Steering package. This package features a planetary gearset on the steering shaft (similar to BMW), that varies the steering ratio between 12.0:1 and 18.5:1. The package also includes a rear-wheel steering system that induces up to one degree of steer to the rear wheels, to provide increased handling response for the vehicle.
2012 facelift
The second generation FX was mildly updated for 2012 with new options and standard features. The updates included an exterior facelift with new grille, front bumper, fog lights, wheel designs, two new exterior colors, and an interior update with a new instrument cluster. Front heated seats, which was previously an option with certain packages, is now standard on all models as well.A new trim for 2012 is the FX35 Limited Edition. With only 550 units being produced, the Limited Edition features all-wheel drive, an exclusive Iridium Blue exterior color, 21-inch 10-spoke graphite-finish aluminum turbine wheels, V-rated all-season tires, Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System, Around View® Monitor, dark tinted adaptive headlamps, and dark tinted side air vents and lower door trim.
Other enhancements for 2012 include a new exterior color, Graphite Shadow (replaces Platinum Graphite), a new 20-inch wheel design for the FX35 Deluxe Touring Package, the addition of Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) to the FX50 Sport Package, and a shift of the quilted leather climate-controlled front seats to the FX35 Deluxe Touring Package from the Premium Package.
Sebastian Vettel Version
In early 2011, Infiniti entered into disussions with Infiniti/Renault-sponsored Formula 1 driver Sebastian VettelSebastian Vettel
Sebastian Vettel is a German Formula One racing driver, currently driving for Red Bull Racing. He is the current World Champion, having won the championship in and ....
regarding the possibility of a Formula 1-inspired FX. Vettel, who already owned his own FX50, expressed his interest in the performance capabilities of the FX platform. As a result of 6 months of intense research and development
Research and development
The phrase research and development , according to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, refers to "creative work undertaken on a systematic basis in order to increase the stock of knowledge, including knowledge of man, culture and society, and the use of this stock of...
, the 2012 Infiniti FX Sebastian Vettel Version Concept was officially unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show on September 13, 2011.
Distinctive features of the Sebastian Vettel Version include matte white exterior color, F1-inspired carbon fiber front air dam with white LED running lights, F1-inspired side skirts and rear air dam, 21-inch 10-spoke black-finish aluminum wheels, dark tinted adaptive headlamps, dark tinted rear tail lamps, satin aluminum door handles, side air vents and exterior trim, carbon fiber rear wing, carbon fiber interior trim, F1-inspired steering wheel and suede seating surfaces. The vehicle has unique Sebastian Vettel badging on the side fenders, rear liftgate, interior center console and embroidered front seats.
Vettel made it very clear to Infiniti designers that any FX bearing his name needed to be performance-oriented. Therefore, the Sebastian Vettel Version incorporates the same 5.0-liter 32-valve V8 DOHC VK50VE as the FX50; however with reflashing the engine's computer and adding a new exhaust system, engineers were able to boost the output to 414 hp. Vettel worked with Infiniti engineers to transform the FX50 into a lower, sleeker machine; the front air dam provides increased downforce, and the vehicle sits 20 millimeters lower and has 30 percent improved coefficient of drag than the standard FX. With this increase in horsepower, better aerodynamics and taller gearing, Infiniti says the Sebastian Vettel Version accelerates from 0-60 miles per hour in under 5 seconds, with a top speed of 186 miles per hour (300 kilometers per hour).
| Model | Years | Type/code | Power, torque@rpm |
|---|---|---|---|
| FX37 | 2009- | 3.7L V6 24-valve VVEL (VQ37VHR) | 330 hp, 270 lbft @ 5,200 rpm |
| FX50 | 2009- | 5.0L V8 32-valve VVEL (VK50VE) | 390 hp, 369 lbft @ 4,400 rpm |
| FX35 | 2009- | 3.5L V6 24-valve (VQ35HR) | 307 hp, 262 lbft @ 6,800 rpm |
| FX30d (diesel) | 2010- | 3.0L V6 24-valve Turbo diesel (V9X Engine V9X Engine The V9X is a common rail V6 turbodiesel developed by the Renault-Nissan Alliance, and first installed in the Renault Laguna in 2009. It was subsequently made available for all longitudinal-engined vehicles, including Infiniti, Nissan Pathfinder, Nissan Navara, Infiniti FX, Infiniti EX, Infiniti M... ) |
240 hp (175 kW),406 lb-ft (550 Nm) @ 2,500 rpm |
Performance
FX35:- 0-60 mph (96.6 km/h): 6.1 seconds
- 0-100 mph (160.9 km/h): 15.7
- 1/4 mile: 14.9 seconds at 96 mph (154.5 km/h) Skidpad: .82g
- Top Speed: 142 mph (228.5 km/h) (drag limited)
FX37 (Europe):
- 0-62 mph (99.8 km/h): 5.8 seconds
- 1/4 mile: 14.6 seconds at 97.5 mph (156.9 km/h)
- Top Speed: 145 mph (233.4 km/h) (drag limited)
FX50:
- 0-60 mph (96.6 km/h): 5.0 seconds
- 0-100 mph (160.9 km/h): 12.6 seconds
- 1/4 mile: 13.7 seconds at 102.1 mph (164.3 km/h) Skidpad: .87g
- Top Speed: 165 mph (265.5 km/h) (electronically limited)