INFINITI FX50 – SUV INSPIRED BY SPORTS CAR DESIGN
A radical expression of sport and utility, the FX50 is Infiniti’s top-of-the-line crossover with high performance and style.
Representing a fusion of sports car and SUV, the Infiniti FX50 is hitting the road with more sophisticated features that include the breathtaking interior and exterior styling, and sports car proportions that stand out from all other performance luxury crossovers on the market.
The FX50 is designed to replace the FX45 at the top of the model range. A stiffer body structure, a restyled exterior and interior, a more powerful V8 and a litany of new features are on tap for Infiniti’s high-end crossover.
With 390 horsepower, the new 5.0-liter V8-equipped FX50 is built on Infiniti’s latest version of its FM platform with an improved suspension, available adaptive dampers and active rear steering – set to deliver nimble and confident handling.
Despite the extensive use of aluminum and lightweight materials throughout, the FX50 is weighed around 45 kilogram (100 pounds), heavier than its predecessor. Nevertheless, the crossover’s extra power and its 7-speed automatic transmission allow the ATTESA E-TS AWD system to claw its mass to 96 kph (60 mph) in just over 5 seconds.
In keeping with Infiniti’s well defined product strategy, the new FX is inviting in every dimension; from the nimble of its quick and controlled response to driver input, to the ride comfort provided by its Dual Flow Pass shock absorbers and quick response to body motion inputs, to the unique “Infiniti feel” under acceleration and braking.
The FX50 is designed to be highly adaptive to both the driver and driving conditions, utilizing a long list of Infiniti technologies and systems, including Variable Valve Event & Lift (V-VEL) engine technology, Adaptive Shift Control, Suspension with active Continuous Damping Control (CDC), Rear Active Steering, Around View Monitor, Intelligent Cruise Control (Full Speed Range) and Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA).
The FX50 is also known as a more human feel vehicle where the car’s mechanical strengths integrate the latest technology with the owner’s lifestyle. This includes the vehicle’s gorgeous new interior that is crammed with inviting interfaces.
If you suffer from allergies, the FX50’s climate-control system will take care of the problem with the presence of an advanced air purifier and allergen-neutralizing filter. There’s also a new hard-drive-based navigation system and a bevy of safety features such as active braking and an advanced lane-departure warning system.
The interior truly puts the comfort ahead. Climbing inside the cabin, driver and passengers are cradled in diamond-quilted leather seats, hand-stained maple wood and real aluminum trim. Electroluminescent gauges greet the driver behind the leather-wrapped steering wheel. The 2-meter frame fits very comfortably in the front seats of the cabin. The second row is very accommodating even though it’s not overly spacious.
The FX50’s interior is sophisticatedly plush, indeed. Everything inside the cabin is power-operated, including the automatic tensioning device on the front seat belts that removes the slack once you settle in.
Stay comfortable inside, passengers can watch flip-down DVD player with 9-inch display where they can use either wireless stereo headphones or 13-speaker (with 2 subwoofers) BOSE premium audio stereo.
Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC) is also amazing. Using ‘easy to use’ cruise control switches, the system uses radar to maintain a set distance between the FX50 and a vehicle in front of it. FX50’s ICC operates in “Full Speed Range”, hence reducing the driver’s workload in congested traffic as well as smooth long distance travel.
No less important, the FX50 features a wide range of advanced available technology and safety systems that reinforce the strong sense of communication between the FX50 and its driver.
The FX50 provides a secure and inviting feel, as the crossover enhances FM platform Zone Body Construction which is designed to help protect occupants in a collision by helping to absorb crash energy through the use of front and rear crushable zones. Also, the FX50 uses special high-resistance steel for lightweight and improved strength.
As with all Infiniti vehicles, ensuring excellent passenger safety is of great important. The first generation FX received 5 stars for all measures in the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) new Car Assessment Program (NCAP) testing.
Other standard safety features found on the FX50 include a seat belt reminder system, airbags for driver and front passenger with front hip-thorax side airbags and front-to-rear curtain airbag for rear passengers. The crossover is also equipped with front seat Active Head Restraints, 3-point front seat belts with load limiters.
The FX50 has already been a strong contender in the United States and other global markets. Its presence in Indonesia adds to new crossover generation with advanced interior design, innovative technology and safety equipment.
By Aulia R. Sungkar. Published in Registry, March 2011 edition.
· FX50 is entering Indonesia’s market in March 2011. The specifications mentioned and pictures displayed in this product review are based on the specifications of FX50 sold on the U.S. market.
