The JX, which is coming onto the market as a 2013 model, marks several firsts for the Infiniti brand. In addition to its seven-seat, three-row configuration, the JX will be built in the U.S. at Nissan’s plant in Smyrna, Tennessee, instead of Japan. The vehicle will also be the first modern Infiniti to offer front-wheel drive, as well as a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Power will come from Infiniti’s venerable 3.5-liter gasoline V-6, which in its latest application develops 265 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque. While the standard model comes with a fuel efficient front-wheel drive option, buyers in northern climates can still opt for the added safety of an all-wheel drive system.
Fuel economy is expected to be rated at 17/23 mpg city/highway or 19 mpg combined for the front-wheel drive JX. Note, economy will vary dramatically on driving style, especially if the vehicle’s new Drive Mode Selector is switched to a sports setting. Using a rotary switch mounted in the center console, the driver can choose between four drive modes--Standard, Sport, Eco and Snow--depending on road and climate conditions. The system varies throttle response and shift schedules to optimize performance.
The suspension setup consists of an independent strut design up front and multi-link rear, as well as stabilizer bars fitted both front and rear. The steering is taken care of by a vehicle-speed-sensitive power steering system.
For more details on the 2013 Infiniti JX, check out the comprehensive report over at our sister site The Car Connection.
