2006 Infiniti FX35/FX45 Photo Gallery

Sometimes the subtlest changes have the most impact – arriving to work fifteen minutes earlier may make you more productive, impressing your boss and resulting in a promotion; wearing green rather than blue could catch the attention of your single neighbor, leading to a house full of kids and, eventually, a 75th wedding anniversary; or, in automotive terms, adding some extra chrome and a boatload of standard features could get a few more shoppers to consider your product. That’s just what Infiniti has done with the 2006 FX35/FX45, the brand’s uniquely-shaped and amply-powered midsize SUV. You’ll have to pull up a seat and take a good long gander at the FX to notice the visual changes, but eventually you’ll notice the taillights with new clear lenses, alloy wheels that are shaped a little different, and the FX45’s chrome accents and alloy roof rails. Take a look inside to see the restyled front console and the new center control panel. Those are the visual cues. To appreciate what else has changed on the 2006 Infiniti FX, you’ll need to sit in the driver’s seat, push the start button, and take a look at the window sticker. That bass-thumping subwoofer you’re hearing is standard, as are those leather seats you’re resting on. If you’re not quite comfortable, try adjusting the power tilt and telescoping steering wheel or the power lumbar support – they’re standard, too.

Engines

Powertrains for the 2006 Infiniti FX35 and FX45 have been carried over largely unchanged. The 2006 FX35 soldiers on with the same 24-valve, 3.5-liter V6 that generates 280 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 270 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,800 rpm. But in the FX45, horsepower from the 32-valve, 4.5-liter V8 has climbed to 320 at 6,400 rpm and torque is now rated at 335 lb.-ft. at 4,000 rpm.

Wheels

Only the keenest of observers will notice the subtle changes made to the 2006 Infiniti FX45’s 20-inch alloy wheels, which feature gently indented spokes and are shod in P265/R20 all-season tires. Alloy wheels on the 2006 FX35 have also been revised a bit, but still measure 18 inches and wear P265/R18 all-season tires.

Dashboard

You’ll have to peer inside of the 2006 Infiniti FX35 and FX45 to see the models’ most notable change. The center dash has been redesigned to mimic that of the Q45 and M sedans, and now features what Infiniti calls the Human Machine Interface. Think of it as a simpler version of BMW’s iDrive system. The setup includes a central knob that can be used as a single control for the audio and climate systems.

Interior

Located below the new center instrumentation is a narrowed center console, which features a dark wood trim appearance on 2006 Infiniti FX45 models. Behind the console and between the front seats is a center armrest that is now covered with one large single pad rather than the two smaller pieces used in previous models.

Design

Infiniti has added a bit more shine to the 2006 FX45, from chrome strips along the lower doors to the gleaming trim on the front air dam. The grille also includes a chrome surround. FX35 models are delivered without most of the twinkling bits and pieces. New taillights feature less red and more clear plastic.

FX35 Features

Befitting an SUV in the luxury category, the 2006 Infiniti FX35 now comes with a longer list of standard features. Among them are black roof rails; leather upholstery; front power seats with driver’s side memory; a power tilt and telescoping steering wheel; heated mirrors; and a 300-watt, 11-speaker Bose sound system with a six-disc CD changer.

FX45 Features

As if the standard features on the 2006 Infiniti FX35 weren’t enough, the FX45 adds even more. In addition to the exterior chrome accents, the 2006 FX45 features a power sunroof; automatic headlights; aluminum roof rails; a cargo net and cover; a universal garage door opener; an Intelligent Key system that allows for push-button starting and keyless entry; and an integrated Bluetooth hands-free phone system.

Options

Bluetooth phone connectivity and the Intelligent Key system, both of which are standard on the 2006 Infiniti FX45, are optional on the FX35. The Touring, Sport, and Technology packages have been carried over from 2005, though much of the content has been relocated to the standard features list. A new run-flat tire package is also optional on both the 2006 FX35 and FX45.

Safety

A Parkaid system, featuring ultrasonic sensors and a rear-mounted camera, helps drivers determine distance between the back of the FX and other cars or objects, and also helps prevent reversing over small children or pets. Other safety items that come standard on the 2006 Infiniti FX35 and FX45 include side airbags, side curtain airbags, antilock disc brakes, and front active head restraints.

Photos courtesy of Infiniti North America