The Infiniti FX35, launched in 2003, represented a bold entry into the burgeoning luxury crossover segment for Nissan’s premium brand. Specifically, the FX35 model, powered by the 3.5-liter V6 engine and paired with a five-speed automatic transmission, was the initial offering and served as the foundation for the FX line. Produced through 2006 for the first generation (FX I), this vehicle aimed to blend the performance of a sports car with the practicality of an SUV, a concept Infiniti termed a “sport utility coupe.” It was built on the Nissan FM platform, shared with the 350Z and G35, emphasizing a rear-wheel-drive bias even in the all-wheel-drive configuration. The FX35 quickly gained recognition for its distinctive styling and engaging driving experience, carving out a niche for itself in a market increasingly dominated by more conventional SUVs.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Infiniti |
| Model | FX |
| Generation | FX I |
| Type (Engine) | 35 V6 24V (283 Hp) AWD |
| Start of production | 2003 |
| End of production | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 221 km/h (137.32 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.9 kg/Hp, 144.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 186.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 283 Hp @ 6200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 80.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 366 Nm @ 4800 rpm (269.95 lb.-ft. @ 4800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | VQ35DE |
| Engine displacement | 3498 cm3 (213.46 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 95.5 mm (3.76 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.4 mm (3.2 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.7 l (4.97 US qt | 4.14 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 8.6 l (9.09 US qt | 7.57 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1960 kg (4321.06 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2427 kg (5350.62 lbs.) |
| Max load | 467 kg (1029.56 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 776 l (27.4 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1826 l (64.48 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 90 l (23.78 US gal | 19.8 UK gal) |
| Length | 4803 mm (189.09 in.) |
| Width | 1925 mm (75.79 in.) |
| Height | 1674 mm (65.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2850 mm (112.2 in.) |
| Front track | 1593 mm (62.72 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1640 mm (64.57 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 265/60 R18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the FX35 is Nissan’s VQ35DE 3.5-liter V6 engine. This engine, a member of the highly regarded VQ family, is known for its smooth operation, robust construction, and ample power delivery. The VQ35DE features a 60-degree V-angle, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and four valves per cylinder. It utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into each intake port. The engine produces 283 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 269 lb-ft of torque at 4800 rpm. The five-speed automatic transmission, designated as the 5AT, was the sole transmission option for the FX35. This transmission is electronically controlled and features adaptive shift logic, attempting to learn the driver’s habits and adjust shift points accordingly. While not a particularly advanced transmission by modern standards, it proved reliable and adequately matched to the engine’s power characteristics.
Driving Characteristics
The FX35 with the automatic transmission offered a comfortable and capable driving experience. Acceleration was brisk, with the vehicle capable of reaching 60 mph in around 7.2 seconds. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly quick to downshift, resulting in a slightly less responsive feel compared to the available six-speed manual transmission found in other VQ35DE-powered vehicles. The all-wheel-drive system, dubbed ATTESA E-TS, provided excellent traction in various conditions, automatically distributing torque between the front and rear axles as needed. The rear-wheel-drive bias contributed to a more engaging driving feel, particularly during cornering. The gear ratios were tuned for a balance of acceleration and fuel economy, prioritizing usability over outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The FX35 came reasonably well-equipped as standard. Typical features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a Bose audio system, automatic climate control, and alloy wheels. Optional extras included a navigation system, sunroof, and rear-seat entertainment system. The interior design was modern for its time, with a focus on luxury and comfort. Dashboard materials were generally of high quality, and the overall layout was driver-focused. The FX35 occupied the mid-range position in the FX lineup, as later models introduced the higher-performance FX45 with a larger V8 engine.
Chassis & Braking
The FX35’s chassis was based on the Nissan FM platform, a rear-wheel-drive-based architecture that provided a solid foundation for handling. The front suspension utilized a McPherson strut design with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension employed an independent multi-link setup, also with a stabilizer bar. This suspension configuration delivered a comfortable ride while maintaining good control in corners. Braking duties were handled by disc brakes on all four wheels, equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The braking system provided adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Infiniti FX35 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its distinctive styling, comfortable interior, and engaging driving experience. However, some critics noted the relatively high fuel consumption and the somewhat conservative nature of the automatic transmission. Compared to other crossovers of the time, such as the BMW X5 and Acura MDX, the FX35 offered a more aggressive and sporty driving experience. Fuel economy was comparable to other V6-powered SUVs, averaging around 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. Reliability was generally good, with the VQ35DE engine proving to be a durable and long-lasting powerplant.
Legacy
The first-generation Infiniti FX35 established the brand’s reputation for building stylish and performance-oriented crossovers. The VQ35DE engine and 5AT transmission combination proved to be relatively reliable, and many FX35s remain on the road today. In the used car market, the FX35 represents a good value for those seeking a luxury crossover with a sporty character. Common maintenance items include routine fluid changes and occasional sensor replacements. The FX35’s distinctive design and engaging driving dynamics have ensured its continued appeal to enthusiasts and those seeking a unique alternative to more mainstream SUVs.
