INFINITI has consistently challenged automotive norms, introducing groundbreaking models to various segments. From the performance-driven Q45 in the large luxury car market to the sporty and luxurious G20 compact and the pioneering QX4 luxury SUV, INFINITI’s history is marked by innovation. Before the luxury SUV segment truly solidified, INFINITI was already setting new benchmarks.
Now, stepping into the burgeoning “Crossover Luxury” SUV arena, INFINITI unveiled the Fx45 Car – a concept vehicle engineered to redefine expectations. This bold creation boasts a potent V8 engine, intelligent all-wheel drive, exhilarating performance dynamics, and a distinctive design language both inside and out. The FX45 car first captivated audiences at the 2001 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, signaling a new direction for luxury SUVs.
Tom Orbe, then vice president and general manager of the INFINITI Division, encapsulated the ethos behind the FX45 car: “We embarked with a blank canvas, posing a fundamental question: ‘What kind of vehicle truly excites us to drive?’” The answer materialized as the FX45 car – a vehicle prioritizing the thrill of a sports car driving experience, seamlessly integrated with the inherent practicality of an SUV.
The FX45 car is envisioned as the ideal primary vehicle for those who have evolved beyond traditional sports cars, or for individuals seeking to reserve their sports cars for weekend excursions. “These discerning drivers still crave authentic sports car performance, yet require the space and versatility to accommodate family and the demands of modern life,” Orbe elaborated. “This demographic operates at the forefront of trends, seeking the most innovative and compelling vehicles available.” The FX45 car is designed to meet and exceed these sophisticated needs.
FX45 Car: A Synthesis of Style and Substance
The FX45 car masterfully blends quintessential sport utility vehicle attributes with striking sports car aesthetics. It offers optimized space utilization, accommodating four full-size doors for effortless passenger access, and a generously sized rear hatch for cargo convenience. These practicalities are enveloped in a visually arresting silhouette characterized by a low-slung profile, a broad, assertive stance, and commanding, large diameter wheels and tires. The innovative split tailgate incorporates a slide-out load floor, enhancing ease of cargo management. The prominent, instantly recognizable INFINITI-style grille commands attention at the front, lending a substantial yet sophisticated presence. Adding to the vehicle’s unique ambiance, the FX45 car features a glass roof, creating an open and airy cabin environment, complemented by automatic shades for personalized passenger comfort. The rear tailgate is ingeniously engineered in two sections – the upper glass hatch swings upwards, while the lower gate pivots downwards, further emphasizing the thoughtful design.
Stepping inside the leather-clad passenger cabin of the FX45 car reveals a departure from conventional SUV interiors. Personalized zones define distinct areas, contrasting with the typically open and undifferentiated spaces of traditional SUVs. The driver’s zone is meticulously crafted for driving pleasure, featuring an integrated tilt steering column and instrument cluster, alongside a prominent 9.5-inch LCD monitor. This advanced display manages a suite of functionalities including the navigation system, HVAC controls, audio settings, INFINITI Communicator, and even Internet and E-mail access. The front passenger zone is equipped with independent climate controls, prioritizing individual comfort. Rear seat passengers benefit from a dedicated rear zone entertainment system, incorporating a DVD player, video game console compatibility, and a rear water bottle cooler for added convenience. The entire interior is lavishly appointed with Alcantara fabric and solid aluminum accents, creating a captivating interplay of warm and cool design elements within the FX45 car’s cabin.
Uncompromising Performance of the FX45 Car
“The performance benchmarks for the FX45 car significantly surpass those of existing SUVs,” asserted Orbe, underscoring its performance-oriented nature. “Our performance targets were aligned with large sports luxury cars, such as the BMW 7-series, Lexus GS430, and our own 2002 Q45.” This ambition translates into a driving experience that defies typical SUV expectations.
Powering the FX45 car is a meticulously tuned 32-valve 4.5-liter V8 engine, generating over 300 horsepower and 300 ft-lbs of torque. This robust powerplant is mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission featuring a manual mode, offering drivers both effortless cruising and engaging driver control. Power is distributed to the wheels via an advanced All-Mode® driveline, adapted from the system found in the legendary Nissan Skyline GT-R supercar. This sophisticated system ensures superior traction and handling in both ideal and challenging weather conditions, enhancing driver confidence and control.
The FX45 car’s 4-wheel independent suspension is specifically calibrated for exceptional on-road handling prowess, delivering a refined and dynamic driving experience. Further enhancing vehicle control is the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system. This system intelligently modulates brake pressure and engine torque to mitigate oversteer and understeer situations, contributing to enhanced stability and driver confidence. “Given its pronounced high-performance sports orientation, we anticipate that FX45 car drivers will not engage in serious off-roading pursuits,” Orbe clarified. “Instead, we have prioritized stability and exceptional performance in light traction scenarios, such as rain, snow, or gravel,” making the FX45 car a capable all-weather performer.
Braking performance in the FX45 car is delivered by large 4-wheel disc brakes equipped with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) dynamically optimizes braking force distribution based on vehicle load, while Brake Assist System (BAS) provides supplementary braking assistance in emergency braking situations. These advanced braking technologies contribute to the FX45 car’s overall safety and stability.
Completing the FX45 car’s assertive stance and performance-focused design are substantial 20-inch wheels shod with 285/50R20 tires. These elements not only contribute to the vehicle’s commanding presence but also enhance handling and grip.
A New Era for INFINITI and the Luxury SUV Segment
“We are confident that the FX45 car will resonate strongly with consumers and send a resounding message to our competitors that INFINITI’s product resurgence is firmly underway,” Orbe concluded. “We firmly believe that the INFINITI brand embodies aspiration and innovation.” The FX45 car stands as a testament to INFINITI’s commitment to pushing boundaries and redefining the luxury automotive landscape, particularly within the crossover SUV segment.
