Bold 2nd Gen Infiniti FX Arrives in Geneva

Complementing Infiniti's three-model strong lineup in Europe (G, EX, M)

will be

the new second-generation FX sport utility vehicle. The

aggressive, potent original, likened to a “bionic cheetah”, was a

sensation, delivering a driving experience that has gone practically

unmatched to date.

Looking

angrier than ever, Infiniti has revised the FX's curvy, taut styling to

reduce wind resistance, which is now down to a car-like 0.35 cd. To

keep the FX looking beautiful year after year it is available with

Nissan's self-healing “Scratch Shield” paint, which actually repairs

itself. On the inside the FX's cabin remains familiar, with the same

double-wave instrument panel, but with new controls and a new steering

wheel.

The top of the line V8-powered FX is now the FX50, thanks

to a brand new 5.0-liter V8 engine that delivers 380+ horsepower, 368

lb-ft of torque, and has a redline of 6,900 rpm. The new engine is

mated to a brand new seven-speed automatic transmission, and features

magnesium paddles for manual mode

shifting.

The FX is looking

to remain as one of the best-handling sport utility vehicles on the

market, aided by ATESSA active all-wheel drive and active rear-wheel

steering, an item that's been borrowed from the G37 Coupe. Infiniti has

also improved comfort levels, adding adaptive damping, and has fitted

lightweight forged 21-inch alloy wheels to help improve the SUV's ride

quality.

The new 2009 FX will arrive in dealerships this June,

with details regarding the V6 model expected to materialize at a later

date; most likely in April to coincide with the New York auto show.