Detroit Auto Show: Infiniti Debuts FX45 Premium Crossover SUV and Dramatic Triant Concept
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The FX45 is the fourth all-new Infiniti product introduced in less than 12 months, following the recent launches of the Motor Trend Car of the Year G35 sport sedan and G35 sport coupe and the introduction of the all-new M45 performance sedan.
Infiniti experienced the highest sales month in its 13-year history this past November following the introduction of the G35 sport coupe. "Infiniti continues to bring to the market new, powerful, innovative products," said McNabb. "The strength and depth of Nissan's recovery efforts ensure that Infiniti will continue to be a leader in performance, luxury and technology -- as demonstrated today with the new FX45 and Triant concept."
2003 Infiniti FX45
The all-new 2003 Infiniti FX45 combines aggressive styling, outstanding performance and handling and luxury car comfort and amenities into a truly breakthrough design. A SUV with the essence of a sports car, the FX45 was conceived on the theme of a "Bionic Cheetah," utilizing advanced technology to create one of the best performing premium crossover SUVs ever imagined.
The all-wheel drive FX45 is powered by a 315-horsepower 4.5-liter V8 (based on the class-leading 2002 Infiniti Q45 powerplant) and features standard 20-inch wheels and tires, leather seating and a sport-tuned 4-wheel independent suspension. Also offered is a 280-horsepower 3.5-liter V6-equipped version, the FX35, available in all-wheel or rear-wheel drive models. The FX35 V6 is shared with the award-winning Infiniti G35 sport coupe and sport sedan. All FX45 models utilize a modified version of the advanced FM (Front Mid-ship) platform enhanced for SUV duties. A similar, less modified version of this platform is also found in the G35 sport coupe and sport sedan.
Inside, the FX45 provides a highly personalized interior environment with cockpit-like styling, sports seats and extensive use of real aluminum trim accents. Other available equipment includes a DVD-based Infiniti Navigation System, rear seat DVD Mobile Entertainment System with wireless headphones and remote control, RearView Monitor, Intelligent Key, Tire Pressure Monitor System and Intelligent Cruise Control.
Triant concept
The dramatic Triant concept, which made its world debut at the 2003 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, captures the spirit of Infiniti and recent innovative designs such as the FX45 and G35 -- sporty, luxurious and highly personal. As an exploration of a new market niche, the Triant concept is designed to fit active lifestyles. It offers a combination of performance, luxury and practicality with a high level of both on-road and off-road capabilities.
Triant's styling offers the look and feel of a classic sports coupe, with a long, elegant hood, sharply sloped windshield and hatchback and oversize wheelwells stuffed with large wheels and tires. It also features wide, power-assisted gullwing doors and headlights that "guide" the beam around turns with the aid of digital mapping data and GPS technology.
Inside, the Triant's 2+2 cabin features an innovative sliding rear seatback that nearly doubles the cargo area when not in use, voice-based control of some cockpit features such as phone, navigation and audio systems, and a careful blending of natural and high-tech materials that redefines performance luxury amenities.