2008 Infiniti FX

The 2008 Infiniti FX continues its leadership position in the premium crossover SUV class with sports car-inspired performance and style and a long list of available technology features, including Lane Departure Warning (LDW) system, Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC), Brake Assist with Preview Braking, RearView Monitor and Infiniti Intelligent Key. For 2008, FX adds XMâ satellite radio as standard equipment on all models, along with revised interior/exterior color combination availability.

Originally introduced in 2003, the FX has offered luxury SUV buyers an attractive, versatile crossover vehicle with exceptional utility, performance, style, safety and luxury. Since its major revision in model year 2006, Infiniti continues to evolve FX’s standard and optional equipment offerings to become a showcase for Infiniti technology and attention to customer needs.

For 2008, FX is again offered in three fully equipped models: the 275-horsepower 3.5-liter V6-equipped FX35 in both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations; and 320-horsepower 4.5-liter V8-equipped FX45 with standard intelligent ATTESA E-TSÔ all-wheel drive, a sport-tuned 4-wheel independent suspension and 20-inch wheels and tires. The 2008 Infiniti FX arrives in Infiniti dealer showrooms in summer 2007.

Performance–Inspired Styling and Platform

Again in 2008, the FX exterior blends the substantial lower body of an SUV with the sleek, elegant upper body reminiscent of a sports GT. It features a wide, aggressive stance with a long, sleek hood, sleek roof and a “taut canopy” greenhouse. FX’s short front and rear overhangs provide SUV-like approach and departure angles, while also helping accentuate the long wheelbase, wide track and large tires (18-inch standard on FX35, 20-inch standard on FX45).

The wide yet narrow headlights and taillights give the FX an “in-motion” look, with the taillights extending past the body slightly. FX’s distinctive exterior design also includes an Infiniti signature grille, standard fog lights, bi-xenon headlights and large, split dual tailpipes with chrome finishers. Polished aluminum roof rails are standard on FX45, while black roof rails are standard on FX35.

By utilizing a modified version of the advanced FM (Front Mid-ship) platform, Infiniti engineers position the FX’s engine behind the front axle. This results in an optimized front-to-rear weight balance of 52:48 (V6 RWD), which assists weight transfer during key handling maneuvers. The FM platform’s rigidity has been enhanced specifically for the FX by increasing plate thickness of the front side members, side sills and rear wheel housing.

The FX’s long 112.2-inch wheelbase and wide track (62.7-inches front, 64.6-inches rear) combine with large wheels and tires to provide a stable driving foundation – as well as a large interior for both passengers and cargo.

Two advanced powerplants are available again in 2008, starting with the high-performance power of a 4.5-liter DOHC V8. Also used in the Infiniti M45 sedan, the VK45DE engine has been specially tuned for use in the FX45 and produces 320 horsepower and 335 lb-ft of torque.

The engine design includes titanium valves, modular cylinder heads, microfinished crankshaft, lightweight pistons, super-silent single stage cam drive chain and a hydraulically driven cooling fan to help optimize performance. In addition, the VK45DE is outfitted with a variable length air induction system and Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS) to enhance the engine’s power delivery and operation efficiency.

The FX35, both all-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive models, come equipped with a standard 3.5-liter DOHC 24-valve V6 engine with aluminum-alloy block and heads and electronically controlled “drive-by-wire” throttle system. The V6 has been tuned specifically for use in the FX35, with a rating of 275 horsepower and 268 lb-ft torque.

A 5-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode, designed for high torque capacity and light weight, is standard with both V8- and V6-equipped models. Activated by the driver, a special Snow-Mode function changes the throttle input algorithm in low-speed slippery road conditions for enhanced traction control.

Infiniti’s advanced Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system with Traction Control System (TCS) is standard on all FX models. VDC adjusts brake pressure and engine torque automatically in understeer, oversteer or slippery road surface situations, helping the driver keep the intended path.

The ATTESA E-TS™ (Advanced Total Traction Engineering System for All Electronic Torque Split) all-wheel drive system utilized on FX45 and FX35 AWD 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 for front and rear (50:50 up to 0:100). 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.

The Infiniti FX’s dynamic handling is a result of its advanced 4-wheel independent suspension, which makes extensive use of aluminum-alloy components to reduce unsprung weight. The front suspension is an independent front strut design, while the rear features a multi-link design. Large diameter stabilizer bars are utilized front and rear (front only on FX35 RWD model). The suspension system also incorporates special “High Frequency Control” shock absorber technology with a rebound spring for responsive yet comfortable ride and firm, tight handling.

Standard on FX45 models are unique 8.0JJx20 8-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels and 265/50R20 all-season tires. The FX35 is equipped with high-luster Titanium-painted 8.0JJx18 8-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels and 265/60R18 all-season tires, with sport 20-inch wheels and tires available.

Standard braking system components include 4-wheel ventilated disc brakes, Brake Assist (BA) and Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD). Responsive steering is provided by an engine-speed-sensitive power rack-and-pinion steering system.

Also available is Infiniti’s Intelligent Cruise Control, which uses the brakes, throttle and laser sensors to maintain a set distance between the FX and a vehicle in front of it. The available Preview Braking function is designed to further enhance brake response. The preview function utilizes the ICC system’s sensors to identify sudden braking situations (by sensing the vehicle ahead in the same lane and the distance and relative speed from it) and “pre-pressurizes” the Brake Assist system before the driver steps on the brake pedal.
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A Striking, Dynamic Interior Experience

The 2008 FX’s five-passenger interior blends the comfort and amenities of a luxury car with an array of high tech driver and passenger features.

Leather-appointed seating surfaces with driver seat memory and power lumbar, heated front seats and power tilt/telescope steering wheel are standard, along with Dual-Zone Automatic Temperature Control air conditioning, 7-inch information display color monitor, electroluminescent gauges and a three-spoke, leather-wrapped power tilt/telescope steering wheel with illuminated switches for cruise control and audio systems. Other interior amenities include an Infiniti signature analog clock, driver and passenger one-touch up/down front power windows and power door locks.

Available rear seat passenger features include personal reading lamps, center armrest with tray and storage, dual seatback pockets for storing DVDs and magazines, reclining seats and rear B-pillar mounted air conditioning vents for enhanced cooling performance.

Every FX model also offers exceptional utility, including a large cargo area with easy accessibility, flip-down rear seats with quick-release levers conveniently located in the cargo area, three under-floor storage compartments and a lightweight, steel-reinforced composite rear cargo door with electromagnetic opener switch.

Standard features on FX also include a 300-watt Bose® audio sound system with 6-disc CD autochanger, 11 speakers including two subwoofers, mp3-CD playback and steering wheel audio controls. Additionally, the FX is pre-wired for the optional iPod® accessory cable. Also standard is RearView Monitor, which, when reverse gear is selected, projects a view of what’s behind the FX onto the display monitor using a small camera mounted near the rear license plate.

The 2008 FX45 adds standard moonroof, HomeLinkâ Universal Garage Door Opener (UGDO), auto on/off headlamps, Intelligent Key, Bluetoothâ hands-free phone system, wood and aluminum trim, aluminum roof rails and cargo net and cover.

A number of special high tech features are also available, including an advanced DVD-based Infiniti Navigation System and Intelligent Key with keyless entry and push button start (standard on FX45). The available Infiniti Mobile Entertainment System features a DVD player with a 7.0-inch roof-mounted flip-down rear LCD screen.

Advanced Lane Departure Warning System

Again available on the 2008 FX is the Infiniti Lane Departure Warning (LDW) system, which uses an audible signal to warn the driver of a pending, unintended lane departure. The system recognizes lane markings through the use of a small camera mounted in the headliner above the rearview mirror. The camera’s signal and the vehicle’s speed are sent to the system’s advanced microprocessing unit, which combines the information to calculate both the distance between the vehicle, the lane marking and the lateral velocity to the lane marking at speeds above 45 mph. A judgment is then made as to whether the vehicle is moving out of the lane (depending on the distance and lateral velocity to the lane).

The Infiniti LDW system is temporarily disabled by driver activation of the vehicle’s turn signals, which informs the system’s control unit of intended lane changes. The system also features a manual cancel switch, which allows the driver to turn the system off when desired. The system automatically resets when the vehicle is restarted.

Other safety features found on every 2008 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 and front-seat Active Head Restraints. FX is also equipped with the LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.

The FX’s SUV-enhanced FM platform Zone Body Construction is designed to help protect occupants in a collision by helping to absorb crash energy through use of front and rear crushable zones. In a high-speed frontal collision, for example, the crushable zone crumples while the engine is designed to move under the occupant compartment.

This has the effect of expanding the crushable zone, thereby helping to reduce deceleration g-force and simultaneously helping minimize cabin deformation, especially in the lower leg area. In offset impacts, the body construction helps decrease the amount of cabin deformation.

Other FX features that contribute to improved occupant safety include a breakaway brake pedal and double-wall bulkhead construction to help reduce lower leg injuries and a breakaway construction of the propeller shaft (connected with the engine-drop function).

Models and Packages

The fully equipped FX is offered in three engine/drive configurations: the V8-powered AWD FX45, the V6-powered AWD FX35 and the V6-powered rear-wheel drive FX35.

In addition to the long list of equipment on the FX35, the FX45 includes additional standard equipment, including sport suspension tuning, 20-inch tires and unique aluminum-alloy wheels, aluminum roof rails, auto on/off headlights, Bluetoothâ hands-free phone system, moonroof, Intelligent Key, tinted exterior lamp lenses and dark chrome exterior accents, wood and aluminum interior trim, aluminum pedals (accelerator, brake and footrest) and a unique V8 engine cover.

The FX35 Sport Package includes 20-inch wheels with all-season tires, sport-tuned suspension, aluminum pedals and aluminum roof rails, etched aluminum interior trim, tinted headlights and taillights and dark chrome exterior accents.

The Technology Package (available on all models) adds the Infiniti Navigation System, Intelligent Cruise Control with Brake Assist and Preview Braking and the Lane Departure Warning system. Also available on all models is the Infiniti DVD Mobile Entertainment System. Available on FX35 (standard on FX45) is the Hands-Free Package, which includes Bluetoothâ hands-free phone system and Infiniti Intelligent Key. FX35 also offers a Touring Package with moonroof, HomeLink®, auto on/off headlamps and cargo net.

Also available is the Run Flat Tire Package, which replaces the standard tires with run-flat tires, deletes the spare tire for more under cargo area storage, and modifies the suspension tuning to compensate for the different ride characteristics of run-flat tires.

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Highlights of the 2008 FX include:

Body

• Bold exterior styling featuring an Infiniti signature grille and front bumper, 112.2-inch wheelbase, wide track, long hoodline and aggressive stance
• Chrome window molding and polished aluminum roof rails (FX45)
• Standard power folding sideview mirrors (FX45)
• Dual outlet exhaust with tailpipe finishers
• Heated body-colored power adjustable outside mirrors
• Rear spoiler with red outer lens center mount stop lamp
• High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-xenon headlights (high and low beam), LED taillights
• Standard body-colored satellite radio antenna
• Dark chrome front grille, tinted headlights, taillights, back-up lamps (FX35 Sport Package, FX45)

Engine and Driveline

• 32-valve 4.5-liter DOHC V8 producing 320 horsepower and 335 lb-ft of torque (FX45) or 24-valve 3.5-liter DOHC V6 producing 275 horsepower and 268 lb-ft of torque (FX35)
• 5-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with manual shift mode and Downshift Rev Matching
• Front engine/all-wheel drive (FX45/FX35) or rear-wheel drive (FX35)
• Built on Infiniti’s FM (Front Mid-ship) platform
• ATTESA E-TS™ (Advanced Total Traction Engineering System for All Electronic Torque Split) AWD system (FX35 AWD, FX45)
• Snow-Mode function (shifts throttle input algorithm in low-speed slippery road conditions once activated by driver for enhanced traction)

Suspension, Steering and Braking

• Refined 4-wheel independent suspension with front strut and rear multi-link design, extensive use of lightweight aluminum components, front upper link and rear subframe
• Large diameter front and rear (AWD only) stabilizer bars
• Engine speed-sensitive power rack-and-pinion steering
• Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Traction Control System (TCS)
• 4-wheel power-assisted vented disc brakes, 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA); Preview Braking available with Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC)
• Unique 20-inch 8-spoke polished aluminum-alloy wheels with 265/50R20 all-season tires (FX45)
• High-luster Titanium-colored 18-inch 8-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels with 265/60R18 all-season tires (FX35)
• 20-inch 8-spoke aluminum-alloy wheels with 265/50R20 all-season tires (FX35 Sport Package)
• Available Run-Flat Tire Package with additional under-floor storage in cargo area (suspension modified for use with run-flat tires)

Interior Features

• Standard XM® Satellite Radio (new for 2008)
• Standard pre-wiring for iPod® accessory cable
• Standard 300-watt Bose® audio system with 6-disc CD changer, 11 speakers including two subwoofers, mp3-CD playback and steering wheel audio controls
• Leather-appointed seating surfaces, power-adjustable (8-way) front seats, power lumbar (driver), driver side memory
• Electroluminescent gauges
• Dual-Zone Automatic Temperature Control air conditioning, rear A/C vents (B-pillar mounted)
• Standard RearView Monitor
• Wood and aluminum trim finish (FX45)
• Available Infiniti Intelligent Key
• Available Bluetooth® hands-free phone system
• Available DVD-based Infiniti Navigation System
• 60/40 split folding reclining rear seat
• Standard 7-inch color information display
• Three spoke, leather-wrapped, sport style steering wheel with power tilt/telescope, real aluminum finisher and integrated cruise control

Safety and Security

• Infiniti Advanced Air Bag System (AABS)
• Dual stage front supplemental air bags with passenger seat occupant classification system and seat belt sensor
• Roof-mounted side-impact and rollover curtain air bag for enhanced outboard seat occupant head protection
• 3-point front seat belts with pre-tensioners and load limiters; ALR/ELR in all passenger seating positions (driver ELR only)
• Seat belt reminder system (front)
• Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH) system in rear outboard seating positions, (upper tether for all rear seating positions)
• Front-seat Active Head Restraints
• Child safety rear door locks and power window lock-out button
• Vehicle Security System
• Energy-absorbing steering column
• Zone Body Construction with front and rear crumple zones
• First aid kit and tool kit
• Available Lane Departure Warning (LDW) system
• Traction Control System (TCS)
• Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) w/ cancel switch
• Brake Assist with Preview Braking
• Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS)
• Infiniti Vehicle Immobilizer System

Models and Manufacturing

• Available in three models: FX45, FX35 AWD and FX35 RWD
• Assembled by Nissan Shatai Co., Ltd. in Kanagawa, Japan