- Competes with: Acura MDX, BMW X6, Porsche Cayenne
- Looks like: The current FX with a new front end
- Drivetrain: V-6 engine (details TBA) or a 390-hp, 5.0-liter V-8 with seven-speed automatic; rear- or all-wheel drive
- Hits dealerships: June 2008
In many ways, Infiniti’s FX is more like a high-riding sports car than an SUV — it shares its platform with the Nissan 350Z sports car. For 2009, the FX receives some mild styling updates, a revised interior and a more powerful V-8 engine.
The FX retains its swoopy profile, but the front of the SUV receives some changes. In place of the previous model’s trapezoidal headlights are new housings that have a jagged lower edge. The horizontal chrome bars on the grille have been ditched in favor of an open design that’s accented with chrome around the edges. The front fenders also gain chrome appliqués, which seem to be the design cue of choice these days.
A new 5.0-liter V-8 engine is optional in the FX and replaces the 4.5-liter V-8 that previous models could have. It makes 390 hp, which is a 70 hp increase in power compared to the old V-8. The FX will again be offered with a base V-6, but detailed specifications for this engine have not yet been announced. Considering the growth in power and displacement for the new V-8, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Infiniti’s 330-hp, 3.7-liter V-6 show up here.
The restyled cabin gets a new dashboard that now incorporates a center control panel like the one in the new EX35 SUV. Available features include Lane Departure Prevention, Intelligent Cruise Control and Around View Monitor. AVM uses cameras positioned around the exterior of the car to create a virtual bird’s-eye view of the SUV to help drivers gauge distances when parking. A new Sport Package features rear-active steer and 21-inch wheels.
