Infiniti has completely redesigned the FX35 for 2009. With a stylish ‘Supernatural Cheetah’ design paradigm, the new FX is a sport utility vehicle with a strong emphasis on ’sport’.

Available in FWD or AWD, the 3.5-liter V6 has had it’s output increased to 303-hp. All that power is sent through a new electronically controlled 7-speed automatic transmission that features a manual shift mode and downshift rev-matching. The FX35 features luxury such as power heated leather front seats, moonroof, 18-inch alloy wheels, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The 300-watt, audio system uses 11 speakers and digital audio conversion to provide an excellent listening experience. It’s also a safe vehicle with standard anti-lock brakes, traction control, stability control, and airbags that include curtain airbags for both rows of seats.

“The Infiniti M is an expression of power, refinement, technology and design – all the things that make Infiniti owners’ hearts pound,” said Igo. “The M captures the soul of the Infiniti brand, expressing it in invigorating, forward thinking ways.”

“More than 55 percent of fatal auto accidents in the United States are caused by lane departures, including single vehicle and head-on accidents. With the LDP system, Infiniti continues to advance vehicle safety technology,” said Igo. “With LDP, the driver never gives up control – it’s a safety feature, not an override.”

Other safety features include standard Infiniti Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt and occupant classification sensors; standard front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags; and standard roof-mounted curtain side impact supplemental air bags for front and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection. The 2009 M also offers standard 3-point ALR/ELR seat belts (driver’s seat ELR only), front seat belt adjustable shoulder height anchors with pretensioners and load limiters, front seat Active Head Restraints with 4-way manual adjustments and standard brake-operated front pre-crash seat belts, which tighten under emergency braking in anticipation of an evasive maneuver or crash.

Every 2008 M also includes Zone Body construction with energy-dispersing side structure, LATCH System (Lower Anchors and Tether for CHildren) and Zone Body platform design with front and rear crumple zones.

Two transmissions are offered with the V6 engine – a 5-speed automatic transmission with the all-wheel drive M35x and a new 7-speed automatic with the rear-wheel drive M35. Both transmissions feature a manual shift mode, Downshift Rev Matching and Drive Sport (DS) mode.

Every Infiniti M utilizes an enhanced next-generation FM (Front Mid-ship) platform also used on the G37 Sedan, G37 Coupe, EX35 and FX premium crossover SUV. The refined FM platform positions the engine behind the front axle. This positioning results in an optimized front-to-rear weight balance, which factors in weight transfer during key handling maneuvers.

The M suspension is an independent double-wishbone design in front and multi-link independent system in the rear, along with front and rear stabilizer bars. The Infiniti M’s large diameter wheels and tires are positioned out near the corners of the vehicle, helping to further enhance handling and driving excitement.

The 2009 M features split 5-spoke 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels and P245/45VR18 tires. Unique split 5-spoke 19-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with titanium finish and aggressive P245/40WR19 low-profile tires are utilized with the Sport Package.

The M also utilizes standard 4-wheel power-assisted vented disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA). The steering system is an electronically controlled vehicle-speed-sensing variable-assist power rack-and-pinion design.

Every Infiniti M features Infiniti’s advanced Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Traction Control System (TCS). VDC adjusts brake pressure and engine torque automatically in understeer, oversteer or slippery road surface situations, helping the driver keep the intended path.

For drivers seeking the enhanced all-climate performance of all-wheel drive, the M35x and M45x models feature the intelligent ATTESA E-TS™ (Advanced Total Traction Engineering System for All Electronic Torque Split) all-wheel drive system. It uses an advanced torque split control strategy that automatically transfers optimum torque to the wheels according to road and driving conditions.

The ATTESA E-TS™ system provides sports car-like handling and cornering capability due to optimum torque distribution between the front and rear wheels (front and rear 0:100 up to 50:50). ATTESA E-TS™ 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. Combined with the vehicle’s VDC system, each wheel receives the appropriate amount of torque when needed.

“The M45x and M35x are ideal for areas of the country that experience inclement weather conditions, as well as for drivers seeking the added handling and control benefits of all-wheel drive,” said Igo.

The handling and stability of the Infiniti M Sport Package-equipped models is further optimized by Infiniti’s Rear Active Steer system. Unlike passive rear steering systems, this design features precise, electronic motor-driven control. This system helps improve the M’s handling performance by adjusting the geometry of the rear suspension according to steering input and vehicle speed. The system’s electronic control unit calculates the desired vehicle dynamics from a series of sensors, including vehicle speed and steering angle, and directs the system actuator to change the rear geometry by moving both rear suspension lower links. The result is sports car-like agility, combined with luxury sedan stability and ride quality.

The 2009 M vibrant design continues with an expressive grille and crystal-look headlight clusters that offer a luxurious appeal, while large 18-inch or 19-inch (Sport Package-equipped vehicles only) wheels and low profile tires, stable posture with wide track, and short overhangs contribute to the sportiness of the design. The M’s low, aggressive hood line flows into the anchored shoulders and fluid roofline, contributing to the sporty, powerful silhouette.

The Infiniti M’s long wheelbase and short overhangs provide a roomy interior and sporty exterior dimensions. Wide front and rear tracks add to handling stability, while the overall width enhances interior and trunk volume. The M also features lightweight body components, including aluminum-alloy inner and outer door panels, hood and decklid panels.

“There’s a solid, muscular look to the M design, fitting of its vibrant performance, yet a refined, high quality feel worthy of an Infiniti flagship,” said Igo.

The M’s modern, intuitive interior design engages the senses in invigorating ways, combining a driver-oriented cockpit with a graceful, Infiniti level of luxury and design detail. For 2009, the M again features “Fine Vision” electroluminescent gauges, “gear-like” rings on the instrument cluster meters, a large center console, unique aluminum trim surface texturing, wood trim, climate controlled front seats, standard XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately) and available features such as heated power reclining rear seats and advanced Bose® Studio Surround™ sound system with digital 5.1-channel decoding and 14 speakers including two personal speakers mounted in the shoulders of each front seat. Three interior colors are offered – Graphite, Stone and Wheat. Sport Package-equipped models receive unique steering wheel and shift knob stitching, unique front seat designs and aluminum-trimmed pedals.

The M interior also offers an Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System with touch-screen, 9.3GB Music Box Hard Drive for digital music storage and playback and available XM NavTraffic® with Real Time Traffic information (XM® subscription required, sold separately). Other driver and passenger-oriented technology features include standard Infiniti Intelligent Key system with Push Button Start and Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, along with available RearView Monitor and Intelligent Cruise Control.

The M35’s new VQ35HR 3.5-liter V6 engine, which is rated at 303 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, replaces the previous 275-horsepower 3.5-liter V6. Versions of this new engine are also utilized in the new second-generation 2009 Infiniti FX35. The Infiniti M45 continues to offer a standard 325-horsepower 4.5-liter aluminum-alloy DOHC V8 and an advanced 5-speed automatic transmission.

Other enhancements for the new model year include the addition of a Drive Sport (DS) shift mode for all transmissions, new auto speed-sensing door locks and Scratch Shield self-healing clearcoat paint finish for all models. The M35x AWD now includes standard High Intensity Discharge (HID) xenon headlights and Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) (previously standard equipment on all other M models).

“The Infiniti M is designed to enrich and crafted to perform – and does so with a choice of powerplants, all-wheel or rear-wheel drive and equipment slanted towards luxury or sportiness,” said Mark Igo, vice president and general manager, Infiniti Division. “With the new more powerful V6, standard Scratch Shield paint and unique Infiniti technology such as the Lane Departure Prevention system, the Infiniti M continues to stand out in class as the perfect balance of luxury, performance and artful style.”

The 2009 M continues as a showcase of Infiniti’s advanced safety technology, including Intelligent Cruise Control and the Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) system. LDP takes Infiniti’s Lane Departure Warning (LDW) system one step further by utilizing the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system to apply slight brake pressure to the wheels opposite the side of the lane departure direction. This slight pressure helps prevent the M from inadvertently traveling out of its intended lane without taking control from the driver.

Other available M technology includes an advanced Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System with touch-screen, 9.3GB Music Box Hard Drive for digital music storage and playback and available XM NavTraffic® (XM® subscription required, sold separately). Standard technology features include Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, Infiniti Information Display with 7-inch LCD screen and easy-to-use controls, Infiniti Voice Recognition and RearView Monitor.

Four packages are offered for the FX50: Sport Package with sport leather seats, smoked headlight bezels and taillights, AFS, Continuous Damping Control adjustable shock absorbers and Rear-Active Steer; Technology Package, with Lane Departure Prevention and Lane Departure Prevention, Intelligent Cruise Control (Full Speed Range), Distance Control Assist, Intelligent Brake Assist, Pre-Crash Seat Belts and rain-sensing wipers; DVD Mobile Entertainment System; and 21-inch high-performance summer tires.

The FX35 is available with the Premium Package, with climate-controlled front seats, 2-Position Driver’s Memory Seat, paddle shifters, roof rails and more; Navigation Package, with navigation system, 8-inch color display, Around View Monitor and more; Technology Package; DVD Mobile Entertainment Package; and Deluxe Touring Package, with 20-inch wheels and tires, AFS and hand-stained Maple wood trim.
“The new Infiniti FX – like the original – remains a radical expression of sport and utility – designed to stand out by every measure,” said Igo. “Its concept and execution come from the spirit of pure auto enthusiasm – and the desire to keep stretching the envelope in search of the perfect performance luxury SUV.”

If a forward collision is imminent with the vehicle in front of the FX and the driver must take immediate avoidance action, the system sounds a warning to prompt driver action. When a rear-end collision cannot be avoided by the FX driver’s action, the system activates the FX’s brakes to decelerate the vehicle, thereby helping to reduce damage resulting from the collision. IBA can apply up to 0.5g braking force (1.0g is considered close to the maximum possible braking force).

Also available on the FX is a Distance Control Assist (DCA) system. Designed for low-speed, heavy traffic situations, DCA uses the Intelligent Cruise Control sensors to measure distance to the car ahead.

The DCA allows one-foot driving in heavy traffic – the driver depresses the accelerator to move forward, but when the car ahead slows, DCA “pushes back” on the accelerator pedal and automatically applies the brakes, even to a stop. The driver then depresses the accelerator to get moving again. DCA will only apply a predetermined amount of brake force. If the closing distance to a vehicle ahead of the FX decreases too rapidly, a warning will sound, alerting the driver to further depress the brakes.

The available Intelligent Cruise Control (Full Speed Range) system combines the brakes, throttle sensor and laser rangefinder with the cruise control system to automatically maintain a set distance between the FX and a vehicle in front of it. The system assists the driver with acceleration and deceleration in the low speed range (between 0 and 25 mph), such as when driving in congested traffic and stops the FX if traffic requires.

Available on all 2009 FXs is the advanced Infiniti Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) system, which takes Infiniti’s existing Lane Departure Warning system (introduced on the previous generation FX) one step further. LDP utilizes the FX’s Vehicle Dynamic Control system to apply slight brake pressure to the wheels opposite the side of the lane departure direction to help prevent the vehicle from inadvertently traveling out of its intended lane.

The Infiniti FX’s Around View Monitor system, first introduced on the new Infiniti EX35, utilizes four small superwide-angle cameras – mounted on the front, side and rear of the FX – to project an all-around view of potential objects on every side of the vehicle, helping reduce blind spots when parking.

The system uses advanced image processing to provide a unique “Birds-Eye View” of the vehicle, making it easy for the driver to position the FX for parallel parking by simultaneously confirming the exact placement of the front and rear of the vehicle.

Safety features found on every 2009 FX include a seat belt reminder system; standard Infiniti Advanced Air Bag System (AABS); dual-stage front supplemental air bags with passenger seat occupant classification system and seat belt sensor; and roof-mounted side-impact and rollover curtain air bag for enhanced outboard seat occupant head protection.

Also standard are 3-point front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, ALR/ELR seat belts in all passenger seating positions (driver’s side ELR only), adjustable upper anchors, front seat Active Head Restraints and LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system. A Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is also standard.

FX also includes available Pre-Crash Seat Belts. Utilizing patented technology (licensed to other automakers), the system automatically cinches-up the FX’s seat belts if the system detects emergency braking, skidding movement or an emergency handling situation – based on information from the brake pedal stepping speed and stroke, IBA activation, vehicle speed and steering angle. In addition to its automatic cinching function in emergencies, the driver can easily fit the seat belt (taking up slack automatically) when putting it on, and support belt wind-up when removing.

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.