Infiniti QX70

The Infiniti QX70 (formerly called the Infiniti FX until 2013) is a mid-size luxury crossover SUV produced by the Nissan-owned Infiniti luxury vehicle brand since the 2003 model year. The FX replaced the QX4 as Infiniti's mid-size SUV, although the QX4 was smaller than the FX. It shares the same FM platform as the rear-wheel drive Nissan 370Z, and it "made no claims of climbing mountains...Rather, its aggressive shape promised style and quick handling.[2]The similarly sized Nissan Murano is based on the same D platform as thefront-wheel drive Nissan Altima. The FX and QX56, whose platform is shared with the Nissan Armada, are not sold in Japan.

The FX introduced its second generation for the 2009 model year as the FX35 and FX50.

First generation (S50, 2003–2008)
The nameplates FX35 and FX45 refer to the two available engines. The FX35 is available in two drivetrains, the RWD and the AWD, which are both fitted to adual overhead cam 3.5-liter 24-valve V6 VQ35DE gasoline engine, with aluminum-alloy block and heads, electronically controlled throttle system, and low-friction molybdenum-coated pistons that makes use of the continuous variable valve timing which in part optimizes the opening of intake valves. This is also coupled with an electronically controlled super-wide ratio five-speedautomatic with a manumatic shift mode that includes the option of sequentially selected manual gearshifts and downshift rev matching.

The FX45 incorporates a 4.5-liter (4,494 cc) 32-valve V8 DOHC VK45DEgasoline engine with four valves per cylinder, microfinished camshafts with aluminum-alloy block and heads, low-friction molybdenum-coated pistons, titanium intake and exhaust valves, modular cylinder heads, microfinished crankshaft, lightweight pistons, super-silent single stage cam drive chain, and a Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System that optimizes opening of intake valves. Development began in 1999 under newly appointed CEO Carlos Ghosn's NRP. Design work was completed in rapid succession in early 2001, for late 2002 production. Designed in 2000 under the "Bionic Cheetah" theme, the 2001 Infiniti FX45 Concept was introduced at the NAIAS in January 2001. From mid-2001, a new concept based on the production design was developed and completed in late 2001. Sketches were first released in late November 2001. The second-generation 2002 FX45 Concept was introduced in January 2002 at the NAIAS '02 as a thinly-veiled production FX(S50) and planned production was announced for early 2003. In January 2003, the 2003 FX45 made its debut at the 2003 NAIAS and went on sale January 24, 2003.

In 2003 for the 2004 model, changes were the addition of a standard eight-way power front passenger seat that replaced the previous four-way design, the availability of aluminum roof rails and chrome-plated 20-inch wheels. Also new were a dark silver metallic finish for the 20-inch wheels (non-chrome-plated), the addition of a standard HVAC filter for all models and the addition of a new Snow-Mode function.

In September 2004 for the 2005 model year, the FX range received enhancements such as lane departure warning (LDW) system that helps alert drivers to an unintended movement of the vehicle out of a designated traffic lane. Infiniti's system monitored the lane markings to alert passengers via an audible buzzer that the driver is drifting unintentionally. The LDW system, which utilize a small camera, speed sensor, an indicator and an audible warning buzzer, was offered on models. The Infiniti FX was the first passenger vehicle to offer a lane departure warning system in the United States market. In addition to LDW, the 2005 Infiniti FX range was now equipped with standard roof-mounted curtain supplemental curtain air bags with rollover protection for front and rear outboard seat occupants.

Other changes included the addition of dark chrome grille, headlight and clear taillight accents to the FX45 (also available as part of the V6 Sport Package on FX35 models), a new key fob design for the Infiniti Intelligent Key system and two new exterior colors, Sapphire and Sheer Platinum. Interior changes included a new standard etched aluminum trim. Total 2007 sales of the FX45 were 1,598 units, about a tenth of the FX35s.

2006 facelift
The FX series was updated for the 2006 model year with new options and standard features. The updates included an exterior facelift with new grille, bumper, wheel design and three new exterior colors, and inside a revised center console with new color screen. Many features previously optional were made standard, including the 300-watt Bose audio system, RearView Monitor, 7-inch color display, Advanced Air Bag System (AABS), leather seating surfaces with heated front seats, ten-way power driver’s seat with power lumbar support and eight-way power passenger’s seat.

The FX45 featured additional upgrades, including new 20-inch wheels, leather-appointed seats, a revised sport-tuned four-wheel independent suspension with new dampers, a Bluetooth system, and the Premium Package became standard. Sales began in January 2006, after production commencement in November 2005. Production of the S50 ended in February 2008.

Performance
FX35: FX45:
 * 0-60 mph (97 km/h): 7.1 seconds
 * 0-100 mph (160 km/h): 17.5
 * 1/4 mile: 15.5 seconds at 91.0 mph (146.5 km/h)
 * 200 ft (61 m) Skidpad: .79 g
 * Top speed: 137 mph (220 km/h) (drag limited)
 * 0-60 mph (97 km/h): 6.3 seconds
 * 0-100 mph (160 km/h): 16.5 seconds
 * 1/4 mile: 14.8 seconds at 95.1 mph (153.0 km/h)
 * 200 ft (61 m) Skidpad: .82 g
 * Top speed: 145 mph (233 km/h) (electronically limited)

Second generation (S51, 2008–)
The redesigned 2009 Infiniti FX was officially unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show on March 4, 2008, and went on sale in June 2008. The V6 model was still called FX35 with the VQ35HR V6, but the V8 model was renamed FX50 in recognition of its 5-liter engine, the newly developed VK50VE.

The exterior retained some of the first generation's "Bionic Cheetah" look and "giant scarab" profile, while incorporating new styling cues. Features of the new design included longer, shark-like sculpted headlights, a large trapezoidal grille filled with horizontal dark-chrome waves, and functional side air vents. The overall size and dimensions of the new model, both external and internal, remained similar to the previous model.

The interior was completely redesigned to bring the FX up to the level of luxury found inside of other Infiniti models like the G37 and EX35. Features included stitched leather seats, stained maple wood or piano black finishes, and matte-finish surfaces.

Front suspension was a new double-wishbone design, similar to that found on the G37 and EX35; this replaced the previous generation FX’s front strut-type suspension. The suspension’s upper and lower A-arms were designed to improve control of a wheel’s motion, especially when the suspension compresses and extends, providing more travel than the previous strut design. The body was also designed to be 1.6 times more torsionally rigid and 3.4 times more resistant to bending than the previous model.

As of 2014, Infiniti renamed their entire vehicle line-up and as a result, the FX is now rebadged as QX70. That same year, the Limited Edition has been dropped as a trim option.

FX37 (Europe)
A Europe-specific FX37 was unveiled at the 2008 Paris Motor Show, and went on sale in Europe in October, 2008 with the VQ37VHR. Europeans get the 320-hp FX37 as their entry level model instead of the FX35, which will be available in FX37 GT and FX37S versions. The FX37 GT came equipped with 20-inch alloy wheels, power and heated/ventilated front seats, adaptive xenon headlamps, parking camera sensors, all-wheel-drive, and a 7-speed automatic with paddle shifting. The FX37S added 21-inch alloy wheels, Continuous Damping Control, and sports seats.

FX30d turbo diesel (Europe)
A Europe-specific FX30d was released in late 2010, powered by a new 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel V9X Engine. The engine was developed by the Renault-Nissan Alliance, and will also power the EX and M models.

This engine, which is the first diesel in Infiniti’s history, was specifically designed to deliver high levels of refined performance in line with Infiniti philosophy. Although a V8 diesel engine was entertained, the V6 format was selected early on as the ideal layout for the unit, providing the optimum balance between overall performance and refinement.

The engine produces a total of 240 hp (179 kW) and 406 lb·ft (550 N·m) of torque. Peak torque can be achieved from as low as 1,750 rpm and is available all the way to 2,500 rpm, while as much as 370 lb·ft (500 N·m) is available from a mere 1,500 rpm. Idle speed is an exceptionally low 650 rpm with none of thenoise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) usually associated with a diesel.

Equipment
Standard comfort features include dual-zone automatic climate control, a premium 11-speaker, 300 watt Bose stereo with in-dash 6 CD changer and 2GB hard drive, steering wheel mounted audio controls, premium leather seating surfaces, heated front bucket seats, heated power mirrors, 10-way power driver seat w/ lumbar adjustment, 8-way power passenger seat, individual driver memory system (drivers seat, side mirrors, and steering wheel positions), RearView back-up camera, UV reflective glass, and Infiniti's Intelligent Key system. The Intelligent Key design from the first generation FX now incorporates a Push Button Ignition system. With this system, the driver does not have to remove keys to drive the vehicle; a simple electronic fob carried on the driver allows the driver to lock/unlock and start the vehicle keyless.

Other standard features include Scratch Shield paint (first introduced on theInfiniti EX), black lacquer interior trim, high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps, LED brake lamps, 12-point sequential welcome lighting, electronic liftgate closure assist, automatic dimming rear-view mirror with compass, glass moonroof, rear privacy glass, integrated rear spoiler, and dual chrome exhaust tips.

Standard safety features include dual front air bags, side impact air bags, and rear curtain airbags with rollover sensor, as well as Zone Body construction with front and rear crumple zones.

Options include Infiniti's Hard Drive Navigation with touch screen and 3D building images, All-Around View Monitor (first introduced on the Infiniti EX) which displays a virtual bird's-eye view of the vehicle and surroundings to aide in parking, and Intelligent Cruise Control, which provides the benefits of standard cruise control with the ability to add speed and distance intervals, as well as automatically slowing the vehicle in slowing traffic to help provide a safe distance. When traffic flow ahead speeds up, Intelligent Cruise Control then reaccelerates to the preset speed and distance settings. Optional industry-first Distance Control Assist intuitively helps the driver release the throttle and apply the brakes as needed in slowing traffic. Another option, Forward Collision Warning uses the Intelligent Cruise system's laser range finder to alert the driver of a potential collision, and if the driver does not respond, Brake Assist automatically engages the brakes to help reduce collision speed and impact. The Premium Package adds heated and cooled front seats, a power adjustable steering wheel, iPod integration system, folding outdoor mirrors, and aluminum paddle shifters to adjust the gears when using the manual shift mode.

Transmission and drivetrain
All 2009 FX models came standard with Infiniti's new 7-speed automatic transmission, which was also introduced on the 2009 G37 coupe.

The FX35 (U.S.) is available in both rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configuration, while the FX35 (Canada), FX37 (Europe) and FX50 (all) come standard with all-wheel drive. The FX uses Nissan's ATTESA E-TS all-wheel drive system.

All FX50 models ordered with the Sport package (FX50S) come equipped with Active Steering package. This package features a planetary gearset on the steering shaft (similar to BMW), that varies the steering ratio between 12.0:1 and 18.5:1. The package also includes a rear-wheel steering system that induces up to one degree of steer to the rear wheels, to provide increased handling response for the vehicle.

2011 facelift
The second generation FX was mildly updated for 2012 with new options and standard features. The updates included an exterior facelift with new grille, front bumper, fog lights, wheel designs, two new exterior colors, and an interior update with a new instrument cluster. Front heated seats, which was previously an option with certain packages, is now standard on all models as well.

A new trim for 2012 is the FX35 Limited Edition. With only 550 units being produced, the Limited Edition features all-wheel drive, an exclusive Iridium Blue exterior color, 21-inch 10-spoke graphite-finish aluminum turbine wheels, V-rated all-season tires, Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System, Around View Monitor, dark tinted adaptive headlamps, and dark tinted side air vents and lower door trim.

Other enhancements for 2012 include a new exterior color, Graphite Shadow (replaces Platinum Graphite), a new 20-inch wheel design for the FX35 Deluxe Touring Package, the addition of Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) to the FX50 Sport Package, and a shift of the quilted leather climate-controlled front seats to the FX35 Deluxe Touring Package from the Premium Package.

Sebastian Vettel Version
In early 2011, Infiniti entered into discussions with Infiniti/Renault-sponsoredFormula 1 driver Sebastian Vettel regarding the possibility of a Formula 1-inspired FX. Vettel, who already owned his own FX50, expressed his interest in the performance capabilities of the FX platform. The 2012 Infiniti FX Sebastian Vettel Version Concept was officially unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show on September 13, 2011.

Distinctive features of the Sebastian Vettel Version include matte white exterior color, F1-inspired carbon fiber front air dam with white LED running lights, F1-inspired side skirts and rear air dam, 21-inch 10-spoke black-finish aluminum wheels, dark tinted adaptive headlamps, dark tinted rear tail lamps, satin aluminum door handles, side air vents and exterior trim, carbon fiber rear wing, carbon fiber interior trim, F1-inspired steering wheel and suede seating surfaces. The vehicle has unique Sebastian Vettel badging on the side fenders, rear liftgate, interior center console and embroidered front seats.

The Sebastian Vettel Version incorporates the same 5.0-liter 32-valve V8DOHC VK50VE as the FX50; however with reflashing the engine's computer and adding a new exhaust system, engineers were able to boost the output to 414 hp (309 kW). A front air dam provides increased downforce, and the vehicle sits 20 millimeters lower and has 30 percent improved coefficient of drag than the standard FX. Acceleration from 0 to 60 miles per hour is claimed to be under 5 seconds, with a top speed of 186 miles per hour (300 kilometers per hour).

Performance
FX35: FX37 (Europe): FX50:
 * 0-60 mph (97 km/h): 6.1 seconds
 * 0-100 mph (160 km/h): 15.7
 * 1/4 mile: 14.9 seconds at 96.0 mph (154.5 km/h)
 * 300 ft (91 m) Skidpad: .82g
 * Top Speed: 155 mph (249 km/h) (governed limited)
 * 0-62 mph (100 km/h): 5.8 seconds
 * 1/4 mile: 14.6 seconds at 97.5 mph (156.9 km/h)
 * Top Speed: 155 mph (249 km/h) (drag limited)
 * 0-60 mph (97 km/h): 4.8 seconds
 * 0-100 mph (160 km/h): 12.6 seconds
 * 1/4 mile: 13.7 seconds at 102.1 mph (164.3 km/h)
 * 200 ft (61 m) Skidpad: .87g
 * Top Speed: 165 mph (266 km/h) (electronically limited)

Production
All vehicles are built at Nissan Motor Company's plant in Tochigi, Japan. From 2013, also build at Nissan Motor Company's plant in Shushari, Saint-Petersburg,Russia