INFINITI has consistently pushed boundaries, introducing new dimensions within existing vehicle segments. From the groundbreaking Q45 that elevated large luxury car performance to the G20, which infused sportiness into compact cars, and the QX4, a pioneer in luxury SUVs even before the segment boomed, INFINITI’s history is rich with innovation.
Continuing this tradition, INFINITI unveiled the Fx45 Car, a concept vehicle designed to spearhead the burgeoning “Crossover Luxury” SUV market. The FX45 car concept made its debut at the 2001 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, signaling a bold new direction. This vehicle was engineered to deliver V8 power, all-wheel drive capability, and exceptional performance, all wrapped in a distinctive interior and exterior design.
Tom Orbe, then vice president and general manager of INFINITI Division, articulated the vision behind the FX45 car: “We started with a blank piece of paper and asked the question, ‘What kind of vehicle do we want to drive?’ The result was the FX45 — a sports car driver’s vehicle first with the practicality of an SUV second.” This statement encapsulates the core philosophy of the FX45 car – a fusion of two seemingly disparate automotive worlds.
The target demographic for the FX45 car was envisioned as individuals who might be transitioning from, or augmenting, their ownership of traditional sports cars. “They still want true sports car performance, but need room for family and all of life’s other necessities,” Orbe explained, highlighting the practical needs of this discerning buyer. He further emphasized that this buyer is “right on the cutting edge and will want the latest and greatest vehicle available,” underscoring the FX45 car’s positioning as a forward-thinking and aspirational vehicle.
FX45 Car: A Synthesis of Style and Substance
The FX45 car’s design language masterfully blends the desirable attributes of a sport utility vehicle with the sleek aesthetics of a sports car. It achieves optimized space utilization and incorporates four full-size doors for convenient passenger access, along with a large rear hatch to accommodate cargo – all hallmarks of an SUV. However, the FX45 car distinguishes itself with sports car-inspired styling cues: a low-slung profile, a wide, assertive stance, and substantial wheels and tires that contribute to its commanding presence.
A notable exterior feature is the split tailgate, incorporating a slide-out load floor to simplify cargo management. The front fascia is dominated by a large, signature INFINITI-style grille, projecting a substantial yet refined appearance. The FX45 car also boasted a glass roof, designed to create an open and airy cabin ambiance, complemented by automatic shades to ensure passenger comfort and control over sunlight exposure. The innovative rear tailgate operates in two sections – the glass hatch swings upwards independently, while the lower gate section pivots downwards, enhancing accessibility and versatility.
Stepping inside the FX45 car, occupants are greeted by a leather-appointed passenger compartment meticulously crafted with personalized zones. This design approach diverges from the conventional, often formless interiors of traditional SUVs. The driver’s zone is specifically tailored for driving enjoyment, featuring an integrated tilt steering column and instrument cluster. A prominent 9.5-inch LCD monitor serves as the central hub for various functionalities, including an advanced navigation system, HVAC controls, audio settings, INFINITI Communicator, and even internet and email access, showcasing the vehicle’s technological sophistication.
The front passenger zone is equipped with independent climate controls, prioritizing individual comfort. Rear seat passengers are catered to with a dedicated entertainment system including a DVD player and video game console, along with a rear water bottle cooler for added convenience. The interior of the FX45 car is further enhanced by the use of Alcantara fabric and solid aluminum accents throughout the cabin, creating a compelling interplay of warm and cool design elements, and elevating the overall sense of luxury and modernity.
FX45 Car: Performance Engineered for Driving Enthusiasts
“FX45 car vehicle performance target is far above that of the current crop of SUVs,” Tom Orbe asserted, emphasizing the performance-oriented DNA of the FX45 car. “Instead, we targeted large sports luxury cars, such as the BMW 7-series, Lexus GS430 and our own 2002 Q45,” he stated, clearly positioning the FX45 car’s performance benchmarks against established luxury sedans rather than traditional SUVs.
At the heart of the FX45 car lies a specially tuned 32-valve 4.5-liter V8 engine, generating in excess of 300 horsepower and 300 ft-lbs of torque. This robust powerplant is paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission featuring a manual mode, offering drivers the option for a more engaging driving experience. Power is distributed to all four wheels via an All-Mode? driveline, derived from the system found in the Nissan Skyline GT-R supercar. This advanced all-wheel-drive system ensures superior traction and handling in both dry and challenging weather conditions.
The FX45 car is equipped with a 4-wheel independent suspension system, specifically tuned for on-road handling precision and agility. Further enhancing vehicle control is the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system, which modulates brake pressure and engine torque to mitigate oversteer and understeer situations, contributing to confident handling. Orbe clarified the intended usage scenario: “With its high-performance sports orientation, we feel that an FX45 car driver will not participate in serious off-roading.” Instead, the focus was placed on providing “stability and exceptional performance in light traction situations such as rain, snow or gravel,” aligning with the needs of daily driving and varied weather conditions.
Braking performance is delivered by substantial 4-wheel disc brakes equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) optimizes braking force distribution based on vehicle load, while the Brake Assist System is incorporated to aid the driver during emergency braking situations, collectively enhancing braking stability and safety in the FX45 car.
Completing the FX45 car’s assertive stance and contributing to its handling dynamics are imposing 20-inch wheels fitted with 285/50R20 tires. These large wheels and tires not only enhance the visual appeal but also play a crucial role in delivering the desired levels of grip and responsiveness.
“We’re sure that the FX45 car vehicle will be a hit with consumers and send a strong message to competitors that INFINITI’s product resurgence is for real,” Orbe concluded with confidence. “We are confident that the INFINITI brand is one worth aspiring to.” The FX45 car concept indeed served as a powerful statement, foreshadowing INFINITI’s continued commitment to innovation and its ambition to lead in the luxury automotive landscape.
