Infiniti FX50 5.0 V8 (A) Review
14 Feb 2012|18,324 views
First introduced in the US in 1989, Infiniti mirrors the relationship with Nissan as Lexus has with Toyota. The first Infiniti line-up that saw daylight was the rear-wheel-drive Q45 that was based on the second generation Nissan President. With a V8 underneath its bonnet, the four-door sedan was also the first car that came from a Japanese carmaker to compete against continental makes such as the 7 Series and the S-Class.
Although Infiniti's marketing strategy was to target the premium segments in the States that would not have gone hand-in-hand with Nissan's mainstream image, resemblances of the car models were uncanny. The third generation Infiniti G wore a similar sheet metal as the Nissan Skyline while the Nissan Fuga was sold as the second and third generation Infiniti M in Europe.
But Infiniti had a different plan for its FX. Replacing the boxy QX4, the Infiniti FX has no Nissan equivalent (although the Murano may come to mind) and has been described as having a profile of a "bionic cheetah". Now in its second generation, the redesigned Infiniti FX was unveiled in 2008 at the Geneva Motor Show, retaining its V6 model name as the FX35 but giving the V8 model, FX45, a new name.
Now known as the FX50 in recognition of its 5.0-litre powerplant, the SUV is still primarily suited for V8 junkies but sports some crucial changes that will bundle it to be a highly-competent machine.
Exterior
The front-end is aggressive, taking none of the cues from any other cars in its segment. To mention that the FX50 stands out from the herd is an understatement. Perhaps the long bonnet with 'swollen' front sides and double-arched front grille are the main contributing factors to the SUV's intimidating looks, creating a wavy and sculpted appearance instead of a flat and monotonous one.
Although Infiniti's marketing strategy was to target the premium segments in the States that would not have gone hand-in-hand with Nissan's mainstream image, resemblances of the car models were uncanny. The third generation Infiniti G wore a similar sheet metal as the Nissan Skyline while the Nissan Fuga was sold as the second and third generation Infiniti M in Europe.
But Infiniti had a different plan for its FX. Replacing the boxy QX4, the Infiniti FX has no Nissan equivalent (although the Murano may come to mind) and has been described as having a profile of a "bionic cheetah". Now in its second generation, the redesigned Infiniti FX was unveiled in 2008 at the Geneva Motor Show, retaining its V6 model name as the FX35 but giving the V8 model, FX45, a new name.
Now known as the FX50 in recognition of its 5.0-litre powerplant, the SUV is still primarily suited for V8 junkies but sports some crucial changes that will bundle it to be a highly-competent machine.
Exterior
The front-end is aggressive, taking none of the cues from any other cars in its segment. To mention that the FX50 stands out from the herd is an understatement. Perhaps the long bonnet with 'swollen' front sides and double-arched front grille are the main contributing factors to the SUV's intimidating looks, creating a wavy and sculpted appearance instead of a flat and monotonous one.
 |
Of course the SUV isn't all about assertion. A coupe-like roofline accentuates the FX50's profile while the curvaceous and no less athletic shoulder lines allow the car to exude a sense of inspired sophistication. The exterior styling continues its drama at the rear, with LED taillights that flow beyond the body and dual tailpipes protruding from its diffuser.
In terms of dimensions, the FX50 measures at 4859mm x 1928mm x 1679mm - longer but not as tall or wide as the Porsche Cayenne S. Stylists have also employed aero trickery to the front bumper sides, rear spoiler angle and the taillight shape to give the FX's an impressive drag coefficient to 0.35.
Standard on the FX50 is a 21-inch alloy wheels (an inch bigger than the standard issue on the FX37), sharpening the SUV's commanding presence on the roads. As a result, the biggish vehicle looks lean instead of bulky - visually underscoring the FX's sporty intentions.
 |
Interior
Inside the cabin, space is the royal order for the day as expected from an SUV. Despite its coupe-like roofline, headroom is abundance all-round, as with the legroom. Benches are leather-swathed, with the front ones offering 14-way for the driver and 10-way for the passenger. And should sunny Singapore get a tad too hot, front seats are equipped with a climate-controlled function that will cool your back and butt.
The interior is not overly done in a luxurious style or something excessively gimmicky. Instead, there's a sense of heartfelt and warmth to it, executed with a unique charm, especially at night when the white and violet colour on the ornamental Infiniti analogue clock and instrument panel glow. The combination of the FX's gauges and gear-like rings is immediately arresting, falling somewhere between reverent and classy.
It's here where you would really appreciate the cabin's fit and finish. The fine-tailored interior trim of Black Quartz appears rich while matte-finish surfaces provide a breather from the chrome-plated plastic that's commonly used in many other vehicles. Simply put it, the quality of materials used is exceptional. Come into contact with any surface areas within the cabin and you will not find anything that feels cheap to touch.
Inside the cabin, space is the royal order for the day as expected from an SUV. Despite its coupe-like roofline, headroom is abundance all-round, as with the legroom. Benches are leather-swathed, with the front ones offering 14-way for the driver and 10-way for the passenger. And should sunny Singapore get a tad too hot, front seats are equipped with a climate-controlled function that will cool your back and butt.
The interior is not overly done in a luxurious style or something excessively gimmicky. Instead, there's a sense of heartfelt and warmth to it, executed with a unique charm, especially at night when the white and violet colour on the ornamental Infiniti analogue clock and instrument panel glow. The combination of the FX's gauges and gear-like rings is immediately arresting, falling somewhere between reverent and classy.
It's here where you would really appreciate the cabin's fit and finish. The fine-tailored interior trim of Black Quartz appears rich while matte-finish surfaces provide a breather from the chrome-plated plastic that's commonly used in many other vehicles. Simply put it, the quality of materials used is exceptional. Come into contact with any surface areas within the cabin and you will not find anything that feels cheap to touch.
The driver gets to work with a multi-functional steering wheel that's tricked out with buttons and controls for the car's myriad features. Solid magnesium, backed with leather-clad, paddle shifters are also available for manual devotees to amuse themselves with.
Another highlight is the standard 8-inch full-colour multi-information display monitor. Other than the usual display such as audio and telephone connectivity, this screen allows drivers to have a full view of the surroundings through the Around View Monitor (AVM) technology, providing a clear 360 degrees view of objects around the sizeable vehicle when parking.
In the jamming department, the FX comes equipped with an 11-speaker Bose sound system. Bose and Infiniti also took it a notch higher by integrating the bass module in the spare wheel, resulting in an optimised and crisp "concert hall" when the music is turned up.
Another highlight is the standard 8-inch full-colour multi-information display monitor. Other than the usual display such as audio and telephone connectivity, this screen allows drivers to have a full view of the surroundings through the Around View Monitor (AVM) technology, providing a clear 360 degrees view of objects around the sizeable vehicle when parking.
In the jamming department, the FX comes equipped with an 11-speaker Bose sound system. Bose and Infiniti also took it a notch higher by integrating the bass module in the spare wheel, resulting in an optimised and crisp "concert hall" when the music is turned up.
 |
The Drive
When shown stretches of open tarmac, the SUV is a very willing machine. Allied with a competent seven-speed automatic transmission, the 5.0-litre V8 powerplant sends the FX50 dashing through the century sprint in just 5.8 seconds. More relevantly, it's done in a smooth and fuss-free manner, with no signs of harsh or misplaced cog changes. It's like the transmission and engine playing off each other's strong points and creating something much greater than the sum of their parts.
Although its reaction to pedal to the metal isn't instantaneous, hitting the 110km/h mark when the tacho needle is merely pointing at 2,000rpm is nothing short of staggering. A light shove on the right pedal is all it takes to get the car up to a breezy gallop.
The car pulses with focused energy that feels ready to explode on the road and so it does, with a shivering wave of chorus from the exhaust note that's intense and "anthemic" whenever the accelerator is mashed. Thankfully, with such powerful forces at play, the braking performance is more than up to the task of bringing this titanic to a halt.
Despite having the big engine mounted low in the chassis to lower the centre of gravity, the FX50 still leans too much for comfort when sent swiftly across the arc. But the upside is the feedback from the well-weighted steering and decent tractability it provides, thanks to the Intelligent All-Wheel Drive.
When shown stretches of open tarmac, the SUV is a very willing machine. Allied with a competent seven-speed automatic transmission, the 5.0-litre V8 powerplant sends the FX50 dashing through the century sprint in just 5.8 seconds. More relevantly, it's done in a smooth and fuss-free manner, with no signs of harsh or misplaced cog changes. It's like the transmission and engine playing off each other's strong points and creating something much greater than the sum of their parts.
Although its reaction to pedal to the metal isn't instantaneous, hitting the 110km/h mark when the tacho needle is merely pointing at 2,000rpm is nothing short of staggering. A light shove on the right pedal is all it takes to get the car up to a breezy gallop.
The car pulses with focused energy that feels ready to explode on the road and so it does, with a shivering wave of chorus from the exhaust note that's intense and "anthemic" whenever the accelerator is mashed. Thankfully, with such powerful forces at play, the braking performance is more than up to the task of bringing this titanic to a halt.
Despite having the big engine mounted low in the chassis to lower the centre of gravity, the FX50 still leans too much for comfort when sent swiftly across the arc. But the upside is the feedback from the well-weighted steering and decent tractability it provides, thanks to the Intelligent All-Wheel Drive.
Around town, the FX50 behaves appropriately. For an automobile boasting 390 of horses and 500Nm of torque, its refinement is excellent. Despite its big 21-inch shoes, the ride over laterally undulating tarmac is exceptionally composed and comfortable while external noises are kept well at bay.
Conclusion
From the aggressive front-end to the sprightly on-road performance and aural sparkle, the FX's got attitude. Apart from being impressively matured and beefy, the FX50 also has the rock solid feel that enhances the overall feeling of security in what is a very capable car.
In fact, one of the first things that strikes you after getting into Infiniti's 'debut' car is the satisfaction of getting an alternative performance SUV.
Conclusion
From the aggressive front-end to the sprightly on-road performance and aural sparkle, the FX's got attitude. Apart from being impressively matured and beefy, the FX50 also has the rock solid feel that enhances the overall feeling of security in what is a very capable car.
In fact, one of the first things that strikes you after getting into Infiniti's 'debut' car is the satisfaction of getting an alternative performance SUV.
First introduced in the US in 1989, Infiniti mirrors the relationship with Nissan as Lexus has with Toyota. The first Infiniti line-up that saw daylight was the rear-wheel-drive Q45 that was based on the second generation Nissan President. With a V8 underneath its bonnet, the four-door sedan was also the first car that came from a Japanese carmaker to compete against continental makes such as the 7 Series and the S-Class.
Although Infiniti's marketing strategy was to target the premium segments in the States that would not have gone hand-in-hand with Nissan's mainstream image, resemblances of the car models were uncanny. The third generation Infiniti G wore a similar sheet metal as the Nissan Skyline while the Nissan Fuga was sold as the second and third generation Infiniti M in Europe.
But Infiniti had a different plan for its FX. Replacing the boxy QX4, the Infiniti FX has no Nissan equivalent (although the Murano may come to mind) and has been described as having a profile of a "bionic cheetah". Now in its second generation, the redesigned Infiniti FX was unveiled in 2008 at the Geneva Motor Show, retaining its V6 model name as the FX35 but giving the V8 model, FX45, a new name.
Now known as the FX50 in recognition of its 5.0-litre powerplant, the SUV is still primarily suited for V8 junkies but sports some crucial changes that will bundle it to be a highly-competent machine.
Exterior
The front-end is aggressive, taking none of the cues from any other cars in its segment. To mention that the FX50 stands out from the herd is an understatement. Perhaps the long bonnet with 'swollen' front sides and double-arched front grille are the main contributing factors to the SUV's intimidating looks, creating a wavy and sculpted appearance instead of a flat and monotonous one.
Although Infiniti's marketing strategy was to target the premium segments in the States that would not have gone hand-in-hand with Nissan's mainstream image, resemblances of the car models were uncanny. The third generation Infiniti G wore a similar sheet metal as the Nissan Skyline while the Nissan Fuga was sold as the second and third generation Infiniti M in Europe.
But Infiniti had a different plan for its FX. Replacing the boxy QX4, the Infiniti FX has no Nissan equivalent (although the Murano may come to mind) and has been described as having a profile of a "bionic cheetah". Now in its second generation, the redesigned Infiniti FX was unveiled in 2008 at the Geneva Motor Show, retaining its V6 model name as the FX35 but giving the V8 model, FX45, a new name.
Now known as the FX50 in recognition of its 5.0-litre powerplant, the SUV is still primarily suited for V8 junkies but sports some crucial changes that will bundle it to be a highly-competent machine.
Exterior
The front-end is aggressive, taking none of the cues from any other cars in its segment. To mention that the FX50 stands out from the herd is an understatement. Perhaps the long bonnet with 'swollen' front sides and double-arched front grille are the main contributing factors to the SUV's intimidating looks, creating a wavy and sculpted appearance instead of a flat and monotonous one.
|
Of course the SUV isn't all about assertion. A coupe-like roofline accentuates the FX50's profile while the curvaceous and no less athletic shoulder lines allow the car to exude a sense of inspired sophistication. The exterior styling continues its drama at the rear, with LED taillights that flow beyond the body and dual tailpipes protruding from its diffuser.
In terms of dimensions, the FX50 measures at 4859mm x 1928mm x 1679mm - longer but not as tall or wide as the Porsche Cayenne S. Stylists have also employed aero trickery to the front bumper sides, rear spoiler angle and the taillight shape to give the FX's an impressive drag coefficient to 0.35.
Standard on the FX50 is a 21-inch alloy wheels (an inch bigger than the standard issue on the FX37), sharpening the SUV's commanding presence on the roads. As a result, the biggish vehicle looks lean instead of bulky - visually underscoring the FX's sporty intentions.
|
Interior
Inside the cabin, space is the royal order for the day as expected from an SUV. Despite its coupe-like roofline, headroom is abundance all-round, as with the legroom. Benches are leather-swathed, with the front ones offering 14-way for the driver and 10-way for the passenger. And should sunny Singapore get a tad too hot, front seats are equipped with a climate-controlled function that will cool your back and butt.
The interior is not overly done in a luxurious style or something excessively gimmicky. Instead, there's a sense of heartfelt and warmth to it, executed with a unique charm, especially at night when the white and violet colour on the ornamental Infiniti analogue clock and instrument panel glow. The combination of the FX's gauges and gear-like rings is immediately arresting, falling somewhere between reverent and classy.
It's here where you would really appreciate the cabin's fit and finish. The fine-tailored interior trim of Black Quartz appears rich while matte-finish surfaces provide a breather from the chrome-plated plastic that's commonly used in many other vehicles. Simply put it, the quality of materials used is exceptional. Come into contact with any surface areas within the cabin and you will not find anything that feels cheap to touch.
Inside the cabin, space is the royal order for the day as expected from an SUV. Despite its coupe-like roofline, headroom is abundance all-round, as with the legroom. Benches are leather-swathed, with the front ones offering 14-way for the driver and 10-way for the passenger. And should sunny Singapore get a tad too hot, front seats are equipped with a climate-controlled function that will cool your back and butt.
The interior is not overly done in a luxurious style or something excessively gimmicky. Instead, there's a sense of heartfelt and warmth to it, executed with a unique charm, especially at night when the white and violet colour on the ornamental Infiniti analogue clock and instrument panel glow. The combination of the FX's gauges and gear-like rings is immediately arresting, falling somewhere between reverent and classy.
It's here where you would really appreciate the cabin's fit and finish. The fine-tailored interior trim of Black Quartz appears rich while matte-finish surfaces provide a breather from the chrome-plated plastic that's commonly used in many other vehicles. Simply put it, the quality of materials used is exceptional. Come into contact with any surface areas within the cabin and you will not find anything that feels cheap to touch.
The driver gets to work with a multi-functional steering wheel that's tricked out with buttons and controls for the car's myriad features. Solid magnesium, backed with leather-clad, paddle shifters are also available for manual devotees to amuse themselves with.
Another highlight is the standard 8-inch full-colour multi-information display monitor. Other than the usual display such as audio and telephone connectivity, this screen allows drivers to have a full view of the surroundings through the Around View Monitor (AVM) technology, providing a clear 360 degrees view of objects around the sizeable vehicle when parking.
In the jamming department, the FX comes equipped with an 11-speaker Bose sound system. Bose and Infiniti also took it a notch higher by integrating the bass module in the spare wheel, resulting in an optimised and crisp "concert hall" when the music is turned up.
Another highlight is the standard 8-inch full-colour multi-information display monitor. Other than the usual display such as audio and telephone connectivity, this screen allows drivers to have a full view of the surroundings through the Around View Monitor (AVM) technology, providing a clear 360 degrees view of objects around the sizeable vehicle when parking.
In the jamming department, the FX comes equipped with an 11-speaker Bose sound system. Bose and Infiniti also took it a notch higher by integrating the bass module in the spare wheel, resulting in an optimised and crisp "concert hall" when the music is turned up.
|
The Drive
When shown stretches of open tarmac, the SUV is a very willing machine. Allied with a competent seven-speed automatic transmission, the 5.0-litre V8 powerplant sends the FX50 dashing through the century sprint in just 5.8 seconds. More relevantly, it's done in a smooth and fuss-free manner, with no signs of harsh or misplaced cog changes. It's like the transmission and engine playing off each other's strong points and creating something much greater than the sum of their parts.
Although its reaction to pedal to the metal isn't instantaneous, hitting the 110km/h mark when the tacho needle is merely pointing at 2,000rpm is nothing short of staggering. A light shove on the right pedal is all it takes to get the car up to a breezy gallop.
The car pulses with focused energy that feels ready to explode on the road and so it does, with a shivering wave of chorus from the exhaust note that's intense and "anthemic" whenever the accelerator is mashed. Thankfully, with such powerful forces at play, the braking performance is more than up to the task of bringing this titanic to a halt.
Despite having the big engine mounted low in the chassis to lower the centre of gravity, the FX50 still leans too much for comfort when sent swiftly across the arc. But the upside is the feedback from the well-weighted steering and decent tractability it provides, thanks to the Intelligent All-Wheel Drive.
When shown stretches of open tarmac, the SUV is a very willing machine. Allied with a competent seven-speed automatic transmission, the 5.0-litre V8 powerplant sends the FX50 dashing through the century sprint in just 5.8 seconds. More relevantly, it's done in a smooth and fuss-free manner, with no signs of harsh or misplaced cog changes. It's like the transmission and engine playing off each other's strong points and creating something much greater than the sum of their parts.
Although its reaction to pedal to the metal isn't instantaneous, hitting the 110km/h mark when the tacho needle is merely pointing at 2,000rpm is nothing short of staggering. A light shove on the right pedal is all it takes to get the car up to a breezy gallop.
The car pulses with focused energy that feels ready to explode on the road and so it does, with a shivering wave of chorus from the exhaust note that's intense and "anthemic" whenever the accelerator is mashed. Thankfully, with such powerful forces at play, the braking performance is more than up to the task of bringing this titanic to a halt.
Despite having the big engine mounted low in the chassis to lower the centre of gravity, the FX50 still leans too much for comfort when sent swiftly across the arc. But the upside is the feedback from the well-weighted steering and decent tractability it provides, thanks to the Intelligent All-Wheel Drive.
Around town, the FX50 behaves appropriately. For an automobile boasting 390 of horses and 500Nm of torque, its refinement is excellent. Despite its big 21-inch shoes, the ride over laterally undulating tarmac is exceptionally composed and comfortable while external noises are kept well at bay.
Conclusion
From the aggressive front-end to the sprightly on-road performance and aural sparkle, the FX's got attitude. Apart from being impressively matured and beefy, the FX50 also has the rock solid feel that enhances the overall feeling of security in what is a very capable car.
In fact, one of the first things that strikes you after getting into Infiniti's 'debut' car is the satisfaction of getting an alternative performance SUV.
Conclusion
From the aggressive front-end to the sprightly on-road performance and aural sparkle, the FX's got attitude. Apart from being impressively matured and beefy, the FX50 also has the rock solid feel that enhances the overall feeling of security in what is a very capable car.
In fact, one of the first things that strikes you after getting into Infiniti's 'debut' car is the satisfaction of getting an alternative performance SUV.
Photos by Julian Kho
Also read our comparison article on:
Infiniti QX70 3.7 vs Lvs Rover Discovery Sport 2.0 vs Lexus RX200t
Car Information
Infiniti FX 5.0 (A)
CAT B|Petrol|7.7km/L
Horsepower
291kW (390 bhp)
Torque
500 Nm
Acceleration
5.8sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used Infiniti FX
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