Motorpinion

I have had a thing for Infiniti for a few years now including the original Infiniti FX all the way back to 2003. Now the 2009 model is in play and is all new both interior and exterior. I will admit the new exterior is an acquired taste – which I acquired like the original FX – but the interior is a beautiful masterpiece of simple but tech savvy style. 

While I have not had the opportunity to drive the new ‘09, Popular Mechanics took it for a spin through the the Hollywood Hills. Naturally they opted for the FX50 with its new 5.0 liter V8 with 390 hp and 369 lb.ft. of torque. The V6 in the FX35 is a respectable 303 hp, 3.5 liter toy; nothing to cry about (especially if you are already crying about your gas bill in your Honda Civic). All models come equipped with a new, standard 7-speed automatic transmission that is reported to be smooth even at low speeds. I will reserve my judgement until the day I demo.  

As usual, Infiniti packs the new FX with enough tech to keep any electronics fanatic happy for years! The spec sheet includes options such as Intelligent Cruise and Distance Control, Around View Camera System, 11 speaker Bose audio system and an adaptive front lighting system.

To see the original review from Popular Mechanics, just click here.

You read it right, self healing paint! We have been waiting ages for this on our cars. Is it finally here on the new Infiniti EX and FX?  Answer, Kinda’. Infiniti calls their new product the Infiniti Scratch Shield. However, it is not the paint that is the “miracle” news here, it’s the clearcoat.  Infiniti claims the clearcoat is able to repair fine damage such as fingernail scratches and swirl marks from washing.  The clearcoat is able to restore the surface close to its original state while maintaining the car’s gloss level over time. Using a special highly elastic resin, the Scratch Shield process can take anywhere from one day to a week depending on the ambient temperature and depth of the scratch . This resin is combined with a conventional clearcoat to increase its flexibility and strength. The Scratch Shield will not be able to repair damage that gets past the clearcoat and into the paint.

Think of it this way, when it is warm enough out, the clearcoat can become just flexible enough to “stretch” back to its original shape.  Guess up here in New England, we will have to wait a while in the winter for the technology to do its work.  On the other hand, I do have a couple of questions. How will the body shops cope with this brand new product used on only one vehicle brand in the US.  More importantly, how much will it cost to get body work fixed?