Autoblog

click above for high-res gallery of the 2009 FX35 and FX50

Infiniti has announced pricing for its 2009 FX35 and FX50, and if you're jonesing for some of that "bionic cheetah" styling, the base price for the FX35 RWD with the venerable 3.5L VQ V6 producing 303 horsepower is $40,950. If you'd prefer a CUV that can rotate all four wheels at once, the FX35 AWD jumps up to $42,350. Finally, the bid dog of the bunch, the FX50 AWD with its 390-hp 5.0L V8, starts at a heady $56,700. All FX models get a seven-speed automatic with magnesium paddle shifters for do-it-yourself shifting, as well. These prices don't include destination and handling charges, which haven't been set yet but were $815 for the current-gen FX. And the pricing doesn't stop there, as each model has a few option packages that may boost the price even further. The FX35 is available with a Premium Package ($2,350), Navigation Package ($2,850) that includes the trick Around View Monitor, Deluxe Touring Package ($2,650), Technology Package ($2,900) and a DVD player for $1,600. the FX50, meanwhile, can also be had with a Technology Package ($2,900), as well as a Sport Package ($3,000), the DVD player and 21-inch summer tires for no extra charge.

Infiniti does note that these prices are well above the current-gen FX models. The FX35 RWD and AWD are $2,900 and $2,800 more, respectively, and the FX50 is a whopping $6,600 more than the current model. Infiniti credits the upgraded 3.5L V6, new seven-speed automatic, brand-new 5.0L V8, a standard nav system and Around View Monitor in the FX50 and over 200% more hand-stained maple trim than before for the price increases. If we say we're cool with plastic trim instead of wood, can we get a discount? Follow the jump for more details including the contents of each option package.



[Source: Infiniti]

A certain sales manager from a certain dealership in Long Island was kind enough to take a little bit of the wind out of Infiniti's sails ahead of its unveiling of the redesigned FX CUV. The detailed headlamp shot above was posted on an Infiniti FX forum (who knew?), and pretty much confirms the styling tweaks the new fascia will get, particularly when you imagine it on the set of spy shots we've seen already. The only thing that's left to the imagination is the reconfigured rear end, which will likely sport some new tail lamps and a redesigned bumper. We'd be remiss not to point out that it's not in the dealer's best interest to include his name and contact information in his forum signature, lest Infiniti's corporate communications folks come calling.

Thanks for the tip Jonathan.


[Source: InfinitiFX.org]