Brand new dashboard
Inside, the evolution is much more radical, especially when looking at the dashboard. Gone is the all-black, sinister-looking and suffocating layout. The new dashboard is attractive and flowing, with metallic accents in the FX35 and a combination of maple wood trim and chrome appliqués in the FX50. As a whole, the interior is way friendlier and more vibrant than the previous generation's.

On the flip side, the visual harmony is compromised by the overabundance of controls and switches, the arrangement of which is the result of questionable styling motives.

Inside, the evolution is much more radical, especially when looking at the dashboard.

GT success
The mild success of the Infiniti FX is the reason why company executives decided against a complete overhaul. With annual sales figures dropping from about 30,000 to barely 20,000 units in the U.S. (and just over 2,500 in Canada), an extreme makeover would have only accelerated the downfall.

Having said that, the introduction of the Infiniti brand in Europe later this year is likely to help widen the market presence of this vehicle that competes with Cayennes, X6s and the like.

In the meantime, Canadian pricing for the 2009 FX will be announced in May. Expect to pay anywhere between $50,000 and $70,000, according to Mr. Murphy. For comparison's sake, the 2008 FX35 retails for $55,050, while the FX45 now starts at $62,950.

At the media launch in San Diego, Infiniti representatives put an embargo on any review of the driving experience. Automakers sometimes use this strategy for various reasons. Therefore, since Auto123.com decided to respect their demands, you'll have to wait until April 23 to learn more about the new 2009 Infiniti FX.


Photo Credit : Luc Gagné