Infiniti's Launches G37, EX & FX in the UK: Pricing Announced

Ininiti EX37 GT

By Thami Masemola
June 18, 2009 4:30 PM
Filed Under: Infiniti, Japanese

Infiniti is continuing its Euro onslaught with the UK launch of the G37 sedan and Coupe, the EX and FX crossovers. The G37 range is priced from £30,300 for the sedan and £38,900 for the four-seat Coupe that has a folding hard top.

What you get from the G37 is the new 3.7-litre V6 engine with 320PS (235kW). It can be mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed automatic with paddle shifts. Both the sedan and coupe can accelerate from 0 - 62mph in 5.8 seconds. Rear wheel drive is standard with the cars while all-wheel drive or 4-Wheel Active Steer depending on the model.

The EX37 on the other hand is priced from £35,200 for the two-model range on offer. The said models, an EX37 and an EX37 GT both come standard with the same 320PS 3.7-litre V6. Other factory-fitted items include ASC stability control, xenon adaptive cornering headlights, powered folding rear seats, cruise control and a 2GB music box that can be controlled through a 7-inch colour display.

Pricing for the FX starts from £42,600 for the 320PS FX37 GT while the FX50S 390PS V8 will set customers back £53,800 OTR.

 

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Infiniti G37 Range

Infiniti, the luxury automotive brand from Japan, confirms UK pricing and specifications of the G37 Saloon, Coupé and Convertible – a unique new trio of performance cars with one level of quality and driver appeal in a choice of three stunning bodies.

ROLLE, Switzerland (17 June, 2009) – Infiniti’s ‘G force’ arrives in the UK this September bringing with it a breath of fresh air, a distinct sporting slant and a choice between spacious sports Saloon, svelte two-door Coupé and seductive four-seat Convertible. This line of V6-powered performance cars, from the newest luxury automotive brand to Europe, combines restrained elegance with assured exclusivity.

The 320PS G37 range, confirmed today for the UK, provides exactly the comprehensive specification and lavish feel that buyers of cars in this class demand but often do not get, along with the bonus of Infiniti’s trademark rich driving experience.  On-the-road prices start at £30,300 for the G37 Saloon, £31,950 for the G37 Coupé and £38,900 for the G37 Convertible with its electric retractable hard-top that looks as good up as it does down.

The combined performance and luxury offer of each is undeniably strong.  Active cornering bi-Xenon headlamps, Bluetooth, 18-inch alloys, electrically adjustable front seats, front and rear parking sensors, cruise control, powered steering column with integrated instrument binnacle … it’s all there as standard.  The Convertible is even better equipped with 19-inch alloys, leather trim, heated seats, parking camera, wind deflector and Infiniti’s Connectiviti system amongst many other features.

The G37 Saloon, in particular, comes to the UK strongly recommended – literally. Nothing tops the 2009 Infiniti G37, according to a recent study by US automotive research firm AutoPacific.  With a 95% recommendation factor by its owners, the G37 Saloon registered the highest percentage of recommendations of all the vehicles in AutoPacific’s survey of more than 25,000 consumers who purchased or leased new cars in the period from September to December 2008.  The G37 was also named as the top recommended ‘Aspirational Luxury Car’.

Whatever the body style, all three G37s share a design and engineering character that is uniquely Infiniti and summed up by the company’s guiding principle of ‘Inspired Performance’.

For instance, that long bonnet isn’t just for dramatic effect: it’s needed to accommodate a 320PS V6 engine that sits low and far back in the chassis to ensure good weight distribution. The wide track, long wheelbase and short overhangs provide the well-planted stance. Aluminium suspension parts keep weight in check. The award-winning V6 in 3.7-litre form boasts potency and efficiency in equal measure – and is available with an adaptive seven-speed automatic transmission.

On the road, every G37 variant blends superb refinement and ease of use with spirited performance that sees 0-62mph acceleration in as little as 5.8 seconds and top speeds electronically reined back to 155mph. With sophisticated suspension and standard rear-wheel drive, every G37 offers a highly rewarding drive even when used in the most demanding of European environments. On some versions, 4-Wheel Active Steer is available for drivers who seek no compromise in agility and high-speed stability – Infiniti believes the system is unique on a rear-wheel drive car. For those who demand the ultimate in traction, some models are available with an intelligent all-wheel drive system.

Infiniti’s Total Ownership Experience exists to make every aspect of life with an Infiniti G37 rewarding and stress-free. It is a process that starts as soon as someone steps inside an Infiniti Centre. Here, the ambience is more elegant hotel lobby than car showroom. Comfortable and welcoming, Infiniti plans to open around 12 such Centres across the UK within the next two years, with the first, on the outskirts of Reading close to the M4, due to open in September.

Although Infiniti comes from Japan, significant engineering time has been put into tuning the G37 range for European tastes.  Even the exhaust note is special making a sound to stir anyone with petrol in their blood.  Japanese influence remains in the cars’ design with, for example, the slats of the front grille inspired by Japanese swords and the spear-shaped aluminium trim inside finished to resemble Washi paper.  Details like the double circle, rear LED lights and twin exhausts are pure performance car, though.  The design cues may be similar but each body-style was created separately by the Infiniti Design team and shares very little – only the door-handles in fact.

Infiniti has gone the extra mile in ensuring life with a G37 more than fulfils demanding owners’ expectations. For example, the unique Scratch Shield paintwork magics away light scratches, ensuring the high gloss finish remains high gloss for years to come. On the Convertible, the latest in on-board information and entertainment systems are seamlessly brought together in one user-friendly package called Connectiviti; the top grade Convertible adds a world-first tie-up with Michelin Guides ensuring owners will never be short of a place to eat or stay overnight.

Neither will G37 owners be inconvenienced at annual inspection time. With free collection and delivery of an Infiniti up to a 150-mile radius, the G37 owner will never feel far from an Infiniti Centre.

G37 SALOON RANGE

The Saloon is available in the UK in five well equipped versions at prices that span from £30,300 for the G37 Saloon up to £35,000 for the G37S Saloon with seven-speed automatic.

Whether ‘entry’ model, luxury GT, all-wheel drive x, or sporting S with 4-wheel active steer, all the G37 Saloons are powered by the 3.7-litre V6 petrol engine, compliant with forthcoming Euro 5 emissions standards, mated to a six-speed manual transmission (with optional seven-speed automatic transmission with magnesium gearshift paddles). High performance is guaranteed with 0-62mph taking just 5.8 seconds and a top speed limited to 155mph. Fuel economy on the combined cycle is 26.7mpg with CO2 emissions of 248g/km.  The seven-speed automatic betters this with 26.9mpg and 246g/km, while the auto’s acceleration to 62mph is only marginally slower at 5.9 seconds – still fast enough to beat many sports cars.

The all-wheel drive models are badged with an ‘x’ and use the sophisticated all-electronic torque split system from the EX and FX crossovers. Power distribution is constantly adjusted from 50:50 to 100 per cent to the rear – so that maximum traction is always available on slippery surfaces, but crucially without compromising the G37’s rear-drive handling feel. The seven-speed automatic transmission is standard.  The G37x accelerates to 62mph in 6.0 seconds and goes on to a top speed of 149mph.  Fuel consumption on the combined cycle is 25.7mpg while CO2 emissions are rated at 255 g/km.

The S is the sportiest G37 Saloon and proves it not just with sports seats and aluminium pedals but with engineering changes designed to bring out the maximum potential of the super-stiff G37 chassis and its sophisticated suspension.  Chief change is the addition of 4-Wheel Active Steer.  This varies the front steering ratio and adjusts the geometry of the rear suspension according to steering input and vehicle speed. With the limited slip diff, four-piston front brakes and recalibrated suspension, handling is taken to a new and higher level.

As well as its sophisticated styling and dynamic driving characteristics, the Saloon offers class-leading room for four/five adults. Equipment is impressive. Infiniti particularly prides itself on the G37’s safety credentials which include standard cornering bi-Xenon headlights and a bonnet that pops up in an impact with a pedestrian, providing a potentially life-saving ‘cushion’.

G37 SALOON: £30,300 OTR

Even the ‘entry’ Infiniti Saloon for the UK is equipped as standard with:

G37x SALOON: £33,400 OTR

Based on the G37, the letter ‘x’ and £3100 add:

G37 GT SALOON: £31,600 OTR

For an additional £1300 over the G37, the GT adds:

G37x GT SALOON: £34,700 OTR

Based on the G37 GT, the ‘x’ means the addition of:

G37S SALOON: £33,500 OTR

For an additional £1900 over the GT, the S adds:

G37 SALOON OPTIONS

As befits a car with such sporting characteristics, the G37 and G37S Saloons come with a slick six-speed manual gearbox as standard. The optional automatic transmission is Infiniti’s Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) ‘box. Its seven speeds allow the intermediate gears to be optimally spaced for performance while retaining a long-legged seventh that improves fuel economy on the motorway. Smoothness and response are guaranteed by the ASC software ‘adapting’ to one of three change programmes dependent on how the car is being driven. In manual mode, the solid magnesium gearshift paddles behind the steering wheel offer the driver full control for an even more rewarding drive.

Intelligent Cruise Control uses laser sensors to maintain a set distance to the vehicle in front, at any speed from 0-112mph. And Intelligent Brake Assist could be a life-saver: when it detects that a collision with a car in front is imminent, it first warns the driver and then brakes the car automatically.

G37 COUPÉ RANGE

The Coupé shares its mechanical base with the G37 Saloon but is far from being just a two-door version of it. Infiniti’s trademark long bonnet mated to the dramatically raked roofline endow the Coupé with a character all its own. It’s a dynamic elegance that belies the spacious four-seat accommodation within.

The Coupé is available in entry, GT and S versions at a premium over the Saloon of just £1650 – with standard electric sunroof (optional on the Saloon). Powered by the same 3.7-litre V6 engine, the high performance credentials of all versions are guaranteed. The Coupé’s exhaust has even been specially tuned for a more sporting sound while brake pedal feel, too, has been altered to suit more demanding drivers. Top speed is limited to 155mph while 0-62mph takes 5.8 seconds (manual version).  The high efficiency of the V6, which is fitted with VVEL (Variable Valve Event and Lift) technology, means combined cycle fuel consumption is 26.9mpg with CO2 emissions, Euro 5 standard, of 248g/km.  The seven-speed automatic betters this with 26.9mpg and 246g/km; acceleration to 62mph changes only marginally to 5.9 seconds.

All the Coupés are exceptionally well equipped as standard with the GT adding even more luxury features and the S, complete with chassis changes including 4-Wheel Active Steer, offering the most focused driver involvement.

G37 Coupé prices are as follows:

G37 COUPÉ: £31,950 OTR

G37 GT COUPÉ: £33,250 OTR

G37S COUPÉ: £35,150 OTR

Standard features are as for the G37 Saloon range with the exception of the reclining rear seat and the addition of the following:

G37 COUPÉ OPTIONS

G37 CONVERTIBLE RANGE

The seductive Convertible combines cat-walk looks with Infiniti dynamism and attention to detail to make one of the UK’s most beautiful, as well as fastest, four-seat drop-tops.

Its beauty is more than just skin deep and, unusually for a car with a retractable hard-top, is evident in a thunderstorm or at the beach: the G37 Convertible is as aesthetically pleasing with the hardtop up as it is 25 seconds later with the three-piece electrically-operated top unobtrusively stored away. The operation can be performed from inside the car.  Or for the less bashful, by pressing a button on the door-handle. 

Attention to detail extends to adaptive climate control that knows when the roof is down – and compensates for the fact. On the GT Premium model, even the seats are air-conditioned. The GT Premium version also features a BOSE sound system that takes into account the position of the roof, automatically filtering out background noise in convertible mode. With 13 speakers – including ‘personal’ speakers built in to the front-seat head restraints – never a note is lost.

The Convertible, like the EX37 and FX crossovers, features Infiniti’s new Connectiviti multimedia platform that brings a new user-friendliness to a wide range of information and entertainment functions. In Connectiviti+ form (standard on GT Premium) the highlight is a 30GB HDD navigation system that offers everything owners expect – 8-inch colour touch screen, 3D graphics – and some things they won’t, such as access to 22,000 addresses of the finest hotels and restaurants in a world-first tie-up with Michelin Guides.

The Convertible shares the V6 mechanical package of the Saloon and Coupé and that means it also shares in exceptional performance – 155mph, 0-62mph in 6.2 seconds (manual version) – and handling designed to satisfy the most demanding drivers.

There are just two highly specified models for the UK. Options are few but include an advanced new seven-speed automatic with magnesium paddle shifters behind the steering wheel for full manual control when needed, as well as hi-tech anti-collision safety features.

G37 GT CONVERTIBLE: £38,900 OTR

Standard equipment for the UK includes: 

G37 GT PREMIUM CONVERTIBLE: £41,900 OTR

For an additional £3000 over the GT, the GT Premium adds:

G37 CONVERTIBLE OPTIONS

There may be just two choices of grade owing to Infiniti’s inclusive specification but there are rather more when it comes to colour and trim combinations … 48, in fact, many of which are unique to the Convertible.  One optional choice reserved for the GT Premium with automatic transmission is Monaco Red leather with red stained maple wood. 

Infiniti EX

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Infiniti, the luxury automotive brand from Japan, confirms pricing and specification of its second car for the UK: the V6 powered, all-wheel drive EX.  Smaller than the FX, it’s the first crossover to blend the style and performance of a sports coupé with the character of a compact SUV.  The EX is now available for British customers as part of Infiniti’s range of performance cars coming to the UK.

Infiniti’s pioneering, all-wheel drive EX coupé crossover will cost from £35,200 on the road when UK deliveries begin in September. Highly influential, the EX arrives with an offer to UK car buyers every bit as groundbreaking as its design.

Behind the price are levels of performance, quality, standard equipment, technology and customer service on offer to British car buyers in one model for the first time. The UK is the 12th Western European country to feel Infiniti’s Total Ownership Experience where the promise is to treat every customer like a VIP and make choosing, buying and running a car more rewarding than ever.

In other markets the compact, five-door EX has already established a dynamic new side to the crossover sector – it’s the all-wheel drive solution for any enthusiast whose life has outgrown a coupe.  But equally, Infiniti has seen the EX find favour with urban customers for whom their outgoing full-size, luxury SUV is just too big – or controversial - for today’s cities.

The elegantly styled EX is available in two forms, the EX37 and the EX37 GT, both equipped with a highly efficient yet charismatic 3.7-litre V6 petrol engine offering stirring performance and sound. Acceleration from rest to 62mph takes just 6.4 seconds, a figure that shames many a sports car.  Yet the standard seven-speed automatic gearbox with manual mode and electronic all-wheel drive biased towards the rear wheels ensures the speed is totally controlled.

Both EX models are exceptionally fully featured with items Infiniti thinks its customers expect … but also many they don’t including Scratch Shield paint and electric folding rear seats.  Every EX has, for example, 18 inch alloy wheels, front and rear parking sensors, Cruise Control,  Bluetooth, adaptive Xenon headlamps plus LED rears, electrically adjustable front seats, iPod connection and rear privacy glass – all more usually found on an options list.  The UK is also one of the first among Infiniti’s global markets where the EX comes with the all-new Connectiviti information and entertainment platform that Infiniti believes offers more multimedia-for-the-money than any other premium system.

In optional Connectiviti+ satellite navigation form, owners will never be short of a place to visit. In an industry first, Infiniti has teamed up with Michelin Guides to offer 22,000 across Europe taken from the Michelin Red Guide (for hotels and restaurants) and the Green Guide (for scenic tours, tourist attractions and museums). Connectiviti+ also comprises for the UK automatic warnings of stationary speed cameras and a ‘smart’ way of recalculating route guidance to avoid jams that takes into account traffic count and accident probability.  The system even makes it possible to watch a DVD in the car – assuming the EX is stationary, of course.

Integral to every EX are attributes such as light weight, thanks to the many aluminium parts, VVEL (Variable Valve Event and Lift) technology to optimise engine efficiency, and the model’s signature long bonnet and sharply tapering roofline.  This distinctive profile is a direct result of the EX platform which is shared with its sister, the G37 Coupé.

Delivering exceptional driving appeal and outstanding quality of design and manufacture, the EX is an all-roads, all-weather, all-rounder with exclusivity guaranteed.  Infiniti is not aiming for ubiquity with the EX.

For a guaranteed sighting, customers need to visit an Infiniti Centre: the first in the UK will open on the outskirts of Reading this September.  With its elegant and welcoming atmosphere it will preview a new experience for car buyers, one more akin to visiting a boutique hotel than a car showroom. The Centre will also introduce buyers to a Total Ownership Experience which includes a VIP service offering annual free collection and delivery of an Infiniti up to a 150 mile radius.  With this, an innovative online service, and around 11 more Infiniti Centres due to open across the UK within the next two years, owners will never feel far from an Infiniti Centre.

EVERY INFINITI EX FOR THE UK COMES WITH…

INFINITI EX37 - £35,200 OTR

The EX37 will be unique in the UK market not just for the way it marries coupe styling with a dynamic drive but also for a price/specification ratio to embarrass prestige coupé as well as 4x4 rivals.  Every EX comes with a wide range of safety, convenience and luxury features. Many of these are very familiar from rival models – rival models’ options lists, that is. One example is adaptive Xenon headlights which turn with the steering to provide a wide spread of light around corners. The EX37 is rare in this class to include them as standard.

Infiniti is proud of its new Connectiviti information and entertainment system, also fitted to the EX37 (and GT). It comprises features – from hard disk drive (HDD) music storage, CD and iPod connection to parking sensors and Bluetooth phone connection – that could add many hundreds of pounds more to the price of rival models.

Many features of the EX cannot be had in rivals at any price.  Scratch Shield, for example. This unique Infiniti technology ensures the body’s gloss finish remains unblemished for years thanks to an elastic resin within the top coat that “fills in” light scratches when exposed to heat.  Another EX first in this class is the remote lowering and raising of the individual rear seat backrests – highly convenient when the EX doubles up as an estate car.

Also standard is a truly special engine: a new 320PS (316bhp) 3.7-litre version of the group’s award-winning, petrol-fuelled V6 with Infiniti’s variable valve event and lift technology. In the EX37 it offers 0-62mph acceleration in just 6.4 seconds and a top speed where the law and conditions allow of 149mph.

Ease of driving is assured by a hefty 360Nm (266lb ft) of pulling power available at 5200rpm while in league with the EX37’s high performance is an official combined fuel cycle figure of 25.0mpg.  The engine is ahead of emissions requirements, being compliant with the Euro 5 standard. For the record, its CO2 emissions figure is 265g/km.

INFINITI EX37 GT - £36,500 OTR

For an extra £1300 over the EX37, the GT adds:

For a modest price increase the EX37 GT is the complete luxury crossover package. Full leather upholstery is added while both front seats gain that winter favourite: heated seats. Ensuring that both driver and front seat passenger can find their ideal seating position, whatever their size or shape, both the GT’s front seats come with multiple electric adjustments. The driver has the added convenience of a seat memory and also a steering column that adjusts at the touch of a button.

Automatic tilting mirrors, a jacket hangar integrated into the driver’s seat headrest and a smart I-Key that can be programmed with the driver’s preferred settings are also included.

INFINITI EX OPTIONS

Both EX37 and EX37 GT can be enhanced with Infiniti’s state-of-the-art intelligent safety system, while the world-first Around View Monitor can also be specified. Plus, a high degree of personalisation is available through the many trim options. But overall Infiniti believes in few options – there are just seven for the EX – in great contrast to rivals.

Around View Monitor utilises cameras to generate a 360-degree bird’s eye view of the car, enhancing peace of mind when manoeuvring the EX in narrow confines.

Intelligent Cruise Control uses laser sensors to maintain a set distance to the vehicle in front, at any speed from 0-112mph. And Intelligent Brake Assist could be a life-saver: when it detects that a collision with a car in front is imminent, it first warns the driver and then brakes the car automatically.

The Connectiviti+ package comprises all the regular Connectiviti features plus:

The upgrade to Connectiviti+ costs £1700 which is vastly less than some rival makes would charge for this list of features.

 

Infiniti FX

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Infiniti, the luxury automotive brand from Japan, confirms UK pricing and delivery for the first model in its range of performance cars: the V6 or V8 powered, all-wheel drive FX.

ROLLE, Switzerland (June 10, 2009) – A new name in automotive luxury, a new line of performance cars headed by the ground-breaking FX, and a whole new ownership experience arrive in the UK from September with the launch of Infiniti.

UK prices and specification, announced today, position the FX at the heart of the large crossover market where its dramatic styling, comprehensive standard equipment and peerless quality are ready to stand comparison with any rival.  The three-model FX line-up starts at £42,600 on the road (OTR) for the FX37 GT and rises to £53,800 for the FX50S. This performance champion of the range can accelerate from 0-62mph in just 5.8 seconds.

As well as a complete specification aimed at the enthusiast driver, the FX offers something else as well: an ownership experience to make every FX customer feel like a VIP.  Infiniti can promise this partly because it is not aiming for large volumes – unusually the company is happy for its products to be a rare sight on Britain’s roads.  Infiniti expects its customers to appreciate this level of exclusivity, too.

The FX is exceptional as a full-size five-seater crossover for its relatively light weight – aluminium parts make it the lightest SUV in its class – and engine technology that takes V6/V8 efficiency to new levels, benefiting both performance and economy.

Infiniti takes an intelligent view when it comes to specifying its products, standardising the sort of features luxury buyers expect … and some they don’t, including Scratch Shield paint.  A long equipment tally means less time wasted by the customer ploughing through an options list.  For example, every FX comes not only with leather upholstery but also electrically adjustable, heated AND ventilated front seats.  Yet Infiniti still offers a high degree of personalisation possibilities, not least through a wide variety of colours and trim.

Exceptional equipment across the FX range include Infiniti’s new Connectiviti multimedia platform.  Comprising a host of entertainment, information and convenience features in a notably user-friendly format, Connectiviti is an integral part of every Infiniti FX in the UK. The 30GB hard-disk drive satellite navigation version, Connectiviti+ (optional on the FX37 models and standard on the FX50S) comes with smart route recalculation and speed camera warnings, as well as access to 22,000 hotels, restaurants and points of interest in a world first tie-up with Michelin Guides.

The buying and running of an FX also aim to raise the bar with the inclusion of Infiniti’s Total Ownership Experience.  Although new to UK customers, this initiative has been part of the Infiniti offering since the brand’s inception 20 years ago. The unique Infiniti experience starts out with a visit to an Infiniti Centre. Elegant and welcoming, the Centres aim to capture the ambience of a boutique hotel rather than traditional car showroom.  The emphasis is on hospitality, just as it is in the country Infiniti comes from: Japan.

The first Infiniti Centre in the UK will open this September on the outskirts of Reading, near to the M4, with other sites to follow shortly afterwards.  In all, Infiniti expects to have around 12 Centres open across the UK within the next two years.  With an online experience second to none and VIP service which offers annual free collection and delivery of an Infiniti up to a 150 mile radius, customers will never feel far from an Infiniti Centre.

Indeed, with an emphasis on recognising Infiniti customers as individuals, everything is done to make choosing, buying, running and owning an Infiniti FX as rewarding and stress-free as possible.  But if that sounds a little dull, remember Infiniti’s minimum 320PS power output … which thanks to a sports-tuned exhaust, sounds truly glorious.

EVERY INFINITI FX FOR THE UK COMES WITH…

PLUS Connectiviti package:

INFINITI FX37 GT - £42,600 OTR

As well as all the standard FX features (see list above), the GT gets a true GT’s engine: a new 320PS (316bhp) 3.7-litre version of the group’s award-winning, petrol-fuelled V6 with Infiniti’s variable valve event and lift technology. In the FX it offers 0-62mph acceleration in just 6.8 seconds and a top speed where the law and conditions allow of 145mph.

Ease of driving is assured by a hefty 360Nm (266lb ft) of pulling power while in league with the FX GT’s high performance is an official combined fuel cycle figure of 23.4mpg.  The engine is ahead of emissions requirements, being compliant with the Euro 5 standard. For the record, its CO2 emissions figure is 282g/km.

With a standard seven-speed automatic gearbox and magnesium paddle shifters, near perfect weight distribution and such a high power output, the GT offers a dynamic drive with superlative comfort, luxury and safety.

This model also fits the GT bill with its standard 20in alloy wheels and three-spoke leather-trimmed steering wheel. In addition there‘s a push button engine starter and an intelligent I-Key that can be programmed with each driver’s preferred seat/steering wheel/mirror settings.

INFINITI FX37S - £44,600 OTR

For an extra £2000 over the FX37 GT, the S adds:

With its subtly different exterior trim and decidedly purposeful wheel and tyre combination, the S takes the GT package a sporty step further. But the S is about more than just looks.

The front seats get a sports makeover for more cornering support. The driver seat’s 14-way adjustment includes side bolsters that move in and out at the touch of a button for a bespoke driving position whatever the driver’s shape or size.

Technology in the S is boosted by the addition of CDC dampers. These are electronically controlled shock absorbers which, via a variety of sensors, continuously tailor the level of damping to suit road and driving conditions. CDC can be left in automatic, for optimal ride and handling at all times, or switched to Sport mode in order to call up every ounce of the FX’s handling prowess for the most challenging of roads.

The FX37S uses the same 3.7-litre 320PS (316bhp) V6 engine as the GT and claims 0-62mph in 6.8 seconds and a top speed of 145mph.

INFINITI FX50S - £53,800 OTR

For an extra £9200 over the FX37S, the FX50S adds:

PLUS Connectiviti+ package:

As befits the marque’s flagship, the FX50S doesn’t compromise.  But the FX50S isn’t just exceptionally well-equipped, it is a technological tour de force offering levels of performance and handling for thoroughbred sports machine status.

Its combination of power, equipment, standard technology and all-weather usability is arguably unique at this price.

At the heart of the FX50S is a new 5.0-litre V8 which, thanks to Infiniti’s patented Variable Valve Event and Lift (VVEL) valve control technology, combines a high power unit of 390PS (385bhp) with torque of 500Nm (369lb ft).  It is enough for breathtaking performance: 0-62mph takes just 5.8 seconds while the top speed is limited to 155mph. On the official combined fuel cycle the FX50S returns 21.7mpg.  It is fully compliant with Euro 5 emissions regulations and produces 310g/km of CO2.

To control this amount of power with maximum safety and driver involvement Infiniti called on everything it knows about handling – including the SUV-first of Rear Active Steer. This electronically controlled system enhances agility at low speeds and further improves the car’s awesome stability at the very high cornering forces of which the FX50S is capable.

Like the FX37S, 21in wheels and CDC damping are standard – along with all other features from that model. But the FX50S gets in addition its own exclusive technology designed to make life on board easier and safer.

Around View Monitor utilises cameras around the car to generate a 360 degree bird’s eye view so not even the tightest parking space holds any fear for the driver.  Intelligent Cruise Control uses laser sensors to maintain a set distance to the vehicle in front, at any speed from 0-112mph. And Intelligent Brake Assist could be a life-saver: when it detects that a collision with a car in front is imminent, it first warns the driver and then brakes the car automatically. All are standard fare on the FX50S; some rivals do not offer these features even as extra-cost options.

The FX50S also comes with Connectiviti+, a fully featured information and entertainment system that combines class-leading ease of use – via touch screen, voice recognition, dashboard or steering wheel controls – with huge hard disk memory and a high resolution display with 3D graphics. Sound quality is ensured by a BOSE 11-speaker system acoustically matched to the FX’s cabin.

FX OPTIONS

So well-equipped is the FX50S that the only options relate to colour and trim.  FX37 owners who want to add certain FX50S features can, however, do so.  These include Connectiviti+ which at £1700 costs less than half what the same features would add to the price of certain German rivals.