Performance has always been the hallmark of the Infiniti FX – both acceleration and braking, along with tight, responsive handling. The 2009 FX ups the standards in all areas.

The new Infiniti FX50 model, which replaces the previous FX45, features a dramatic new 5.0-liter V8 engine design rated at 390 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque (versus the previous generation FX45’s 320 horsepower and 335 lb-ft of torque).

The new engine also offers a high rev limit, a powerful engine sound from a specially tuned exhaust and improved fuel economy versus the previous 4.5-liter V8.

One of the keys to the new V8’s impressive performance is the adoption of Infiniti’s patented Variable Valve Event & Lift (VVEL) valve control technology, which was first introduced on the high-performance 2008 Infiniti G37 Coupe. The VVEL system continuously adjusts valve event and lift amounts, enabling higher fuel efficiency with higher torque and improved emissions over conventional variable valve designs. The VVEL intake camshafts, which feature continuously variable lift control teamed with a Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS), allow for a 6,800 rpm redline and a high compression ratio of 10.9:1.

Also offered is an advanced 3.5-liter DOHC 24-valve V6, available on FX35 models. The V6 engine features an aluminum block and heads and electronically controlled throttle system and has been tuned specifically for use in the FX35. The engine is rated at 303-horsepower at 6,800 rpm (versus the previous generation FX35’s 275 horsepower) and 262 lb-ft of torque, and is expected to offer similar acceleration to the previous V8-equipped FX45 – along with improved fuel efficiency versus the outgoing model.

The advanced V6 design also includes a symmetric twin ram air intake system that reduces airflow resistance, Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS), a silent timing chain for quiet operation, microfinished crank journals and cam lobes, and Teflon-coated lightweight pistons, a dual exhaust system with equal length exhaust manifolds and low muffler exhaust pressure to help improve engine breathing. The FX35’s exhaust note has been tuned for a sporty, high-performance sound.

Only one transmission is offered on the new FX – an all-new 7-speed transmission, the first ever offered on an Infiniti vehicle. This new transmission offers both a wide ratio of coverage and a wide lock-up area, as well as a manual shift mode, Downshift Rev Matching and Adaptive Shift Control (ASC).

The standard ASC system adapts the transmission’s shift timing, depending on driving style, ensuring more responsive performance. ASC can switch between several different programs – adjusting gear hold and downshifting, helping the FX feel more like a manual shift transmission when desired.

Solid magnesium paddle shifters (standard on FX50, available on FX35) enable drivers to shift the transmission without releasing their hands from the steering wheel, helping maintain stability for the driver when accelerating or decelerating on winding roads.

Infiniti’s advanced Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system with Traction Control System (TCS) is standard on all FX models – with a cancel switch for drivers who desire less vehicle intervention.

FX50 AWD and FX35 AWD models are equipped with Infiniti’s advanced ATTESA E-TSÔ (Advanced Total Traction Engineering System for All Electronic Torque Split) all-wheel drive system, which uses an advanced torque split control strategy that automatically transfers optimum torque to the wheels according to road and driving conditions. The system provides outstanding handling due to optimum torque distribution from front to rear (50:50 up to 0:100). ATTESA E-TSÔ also provides high starting traction performance and smooth, stable acceleration, especially in snow-covered or off-road situations with a 50:50 torque split at standing start.

FX offers independent suspension at all four corners, with a new double-wishbone suspension design in front, tailored for FX’s large wheels and tires, yet similar to that utilized on the Infiniti G Coupe and Sedan and Infiniti M sedan. It replaces the previous generation FX’s front strut-type suspension and offers better ride and improved handling. FX’s rear suspension utilizes the multi-link design from the previous generation, refined to weigh less and provide more wheel travel – again for improved ride and handling. Large diameter stabilizer bars are utilized front and rear.

The suspension system also incorporates special “Dual Flow Path” (DFP) shock absorber technology with rebound springs for responsive yet comfortable ride and firm, tight handling.

A new, available Continuous Damping Control (CDC) suspension system offers special electronically controlled shock absorbers. Using input from a variety of sensors, the system continuously alters the damping of the shocks to provide optimal ride and handling. A driver-selectable switch with two settings, “Auto” and “Sport,” allows the driver to control the shock valving levels.

The FX50 is available with an advanced Rear-Active Steer system – the first of its kind available in an SUV, which uses precise, electronic motor-driven control to turn the rear wheels up to one degree, helping generate a nimble steering response at low speeds and enhance stability at high speeds. The result is a vehicle that is able to change direction with improved quickness, precision and stability.

Secure braking performance is provided by the FX’s 4-wheel ventilated disc brakes with Brake Assist (BA) and Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD). The FX50 system includes 4-piston front/2-piston rear (opposed piston) calipers, similar to those utilized on the new Infiniti G37 Coupe, and large brake rotors (14.0-inch front/13.8-inch rear).

New superlight six-spoke aluminum-alloy 9.5Jx21-inch wheels, developed by Enkei, are offered as standard equipment on the FX50. The wheels are created using a special type of ultra-lightweight casting and are as light as a competitor’s 18-inch wheels. They are mounted with 265/45R21 all-season tires. W-rated high-performance summer tires are available as on option with the Sport Package.

FX35 models come standard with 8.0Jx18 split-5-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels mounted with 265/60R18 all-season tires. The Deluxe Touring Package includes with 8.0Jx20 5-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels with metallic finish and 265/50R20 all-season tires.