The Infiniti FX was a luxury SUV that deliberately behaved and looked more like a high-riding sports coupé. Officially launched in Britain in 2009, it offered rear-biased four-wheel drive, dramatic styling and a choice of V6 petrol, V6 diesel or 5.0-litre V8 power. Renamed QX70 in 2013, it remained one of the most distinctive alternatives to the Porsche Cayenne, BMW X6 and Range Rover Sport.
UK sales were always limited and Infiniti left Western Europe in 2020, making surviving FX and QX70 models uncommon. They can offer remarkable performance and equipment for the money, but neglected examples can be expensive to rescue.
Development and UK launch
The first-generation FX established Infiniti’s performance-crossover formula in North America. Britain officially received the second generation, known internally as S51, when Infiniti opened its UK dealer network. Its long bonnet, low roof and huge wheels were unlike the boxier premium SUVs of the period.
The platform was related to Infiniti’s rear-wheel-drive saloons and coupés rather than a commercial 4×4. Intelligent all-wheel drive varied the torque distribution, while the cabin prioritised four or five occupants over maximum luggage volume. The result was a road-focused crossover with unusually sharp responses for its size.
FX37: the naturally aspirated V6
The FX37 used Nissan’s 3.7-litre VQ37VHR petrol V6, producing around 320PS and 360Nm. It was paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive. The engine is smooth, responsive and characterful, but it needs revs to deliver its best and fuel consumption is substantial.
For buyers covering modest annual mileage, the FX37 can be a simpler long-term proposition than the diesel. It avoids diesel particulate-filter and turbocharger concerns, although road tax and fuel costs are significant.
FX30d: the UK-friendly diesel
Introduced after the petrol models, the FX30d used a 2,993cc turbocharged V6 diesel developed within the Renault-Nissan alliance. It produced 238PS and a muscular 550Nm at low engine speed. This version made the most commercial sense in Britain and is consequently easier to find.
The diesel suits the FX’s weight and long-distance character, but its emissions equipment dislikes repeated short journeys. A full history and evidence of appropriate motorway use are preferable to a low odometer reading without context.
FX50 and the Vettel Edition
The flagship FX50 used a 5,026cc V8 with 390PS and 500Nm. It was supplied in highly equipped S Premium form and combined striking pace with active chassis technology. UK examples are exceptionally rare.
The limited FX50 Sebastian Vettel Edition took the idea further, with more power, aerodynamic changes and a production run of only 150 cars globally. It is important to distinguish the genuine factory model from an ordinary FX wearing later cosmetic parts.
From FX to QX70
Infiniti adopted a new global naming system for the 2013 model year. The FX became QX70, while the basic vehicle and its character continued. Later UK cars were predominantly diesels, with revised trim and equipment. The renaming can make classified searches confusing, so prospective buyers should check both FX and QX70 listings.
UK engine comparison
| Model | Engine | Power | Character |
|---|---|---|---|
| FX30d / QX70 3.0d | 3.0 V6 turbo diesel | 238PS, 550Nm | Strong low-speed torque and best availability |
| FX37 | 3.7 V6 petrol | 320PS, 360Nm | Smooth, rev-hungry and thirsty |
| FX50 | 5.0 V8 petrol | 390PS, 500Nm | Fast, rare and expensive to fuel |
Driving experience
The FX feels lower and more tightly controlled than many SUVs of its generation. Steering is quick, body roll is contained and the rear-biased drivetrain gives it a more sporting balance. Large wheels and firm suspension produce a busy ride on broken British roads, especially on 21-inch tyres.
The seven-speed automatic should shift cleanly and respond promptly. Rear Active Steering and Continuous Damping Control were fitted to selected high-specification versions; both improve the driving experience but add complexity.
Infiniti FX and QX70 common problems
- Diesel emissions equipment: check for DPF warnings, poor regeneration history, EGR trouble and repeated short-journey use.
- Turbo and intake system: listen for unusual whistles, check for oil leaks and ensure performance is consistent.
- Automatic gearbox: delayed selection, harsh changes or shuddering require investigation. Fluid condition matters even where schedules were described as long-life.
- Wheel bearings and suspension: the vehicle’s weight and large wheels place heavy loads on bearings, bushes and ball joints.
- Brakes: discs and pads are substantial and not cheap. Vibration or a pulling sensation can signal wear or seized components.
- Electrical equipment: test cameras, powered tailgate, seat functions, navigation, Bose audio, keyless entry and driver-assistance systems.
- Sunroof and drains: look for staining, damp carpets and blocked drainage paths.
Bodywork, wheels and tyres
Check the underside for corrosion, damaged shields and evidence of off-road impacts, even though most examples never left tarmac. Inspect the rear arches, door bottoms, tailgate and subframes. Poor accident repair can be difficult to correct because Infiniti-specific panels and trim are scarce.
Large alloy wheels are vulnerable to kerbing and cracking. All four tyres should be a matching premium set with even wear; cheap or mismatched tyres compromise the chassis and may indicate cost-cutting elsewhere.
Servicing and parts
Infiniti’s withdrawal from the UK does not make the FX unserviceable. Many mechanical components have Renault-Nissan connections and specialist support exists, but model-specific electronics, glass, trim and panels can take time to locate. Maintain a contingency fund rather than buying to the limit of the budget.
Verify oil-change intervals, cooling-system maintenance and gearbox servicing. On a diesel, establish how the car was used and whether emissions faults were repaired properly rather than electronically disguised.
Which version should you buy?
The FX30d is the easiest to find and best suited to regular long journeys. The FX37 is attractive for lower-mileage use and for buyers who want to avoid diesel complexity. The FX50 is the enthusiast’s choice, but its rarity, fuel use and parts demands require commitment.
Specification matters less than history and condition. A cherished GT with excellent maintenance is safer than a tired S Premium burdened by faulty equipment.
Why the FX deserves recognition
The modern market is full of coupé-shaped SUVs, but the FX pursued that idea before it became fashionable. Its styling remains dramatic and its rear-wheel-drive roots give it a character absent from many platform-shared crossovers.
As a rare official UK model from a brand that has since disappeared from British showrooms, the FX and QX70 fit the definition of a modern forgotten car unusually well.
Frequently asked questions
Was the Infiniti FX officially sold in Britain?
Yes. The second-generation FX arrived through Infiniti’s official UK network in 2009 and was later renamed QX70.
Are the FX and QX70 the same car?
They are the same basic S51-generation model. Infiniti changed its naming system in 2013 and used QX70 thereafter.
Which engine is best?
The diesel suits high annual mileage, the FX37 offers simpler petrol ownership and the FX50 provides the most character. Condition and maintenance history remain decisive.
Is an Infiniti FX expensive to maintain?
Routine servicing can be manageable, but tyres, brakes, complex electronics and model-specific parts can be expensive. A specialist inspection is strongly recommended.
