| World debut | 2008 Geneva Motor Show | Infiniti FX50 |
Launching an unknown brand in Europe is difficult enough, but when that brand is targeted at buyers used to the likes of BMW, Audi and Mercedes-Benz models, the product had better be good. Nissan launched the Infiniti brand at the
Geneva Show and hosted most of the gathered press at a post-show party to reveal the new FX50.
Infiniti's FX range is highly successful in the States already, combining a luxurious and well-specced interior with one of the sportiest bodies fitted to any SUV. That sums up the new car too, and though the FX50 is really just a facelift, we think it's one of the best looking SUVs on the planet.
The new FX50 designation refers to the fitment of an all-new 5.0-litre V8. The interesting figures are 385bhp and peak torque of 369lb.ft, though performance figures have yet to be released. Mated to the new V8 is a seven-speed automatic with Adaptive Shift Control, downshift blips and metal paddle shifters. Infiniti wants to be seen as a sporty brand. The FX50's four-wheel drive system is called ATTESA-E TS, which stands for Advanced Total Traction Engineering System for All Electronic Torque Split. Up to 100% of the engine's torque can be transferred to the rear wheels.
Though the FX was launched with the V8, it is known that V6 options will come on stream soon, including a high-performance V6 diesel in 2010. The USA receives the new FX this June, with some European countries following in October. British buyers will have to wait until the middle of 2009.
Shane O' Donoghue - 6 Mar 2008