Infiniti FX updated ahead of debut

Infiniti's FX mid-size SUV has been updated for overseas markets, although these latest tweaks will likely not be the last before it hits Australian roads next year.

The updates come just weeks after Nissan announced that it will launch the Infiniti luxury brand in Australia in the third quarter of 2012.

For 2011, the already well-equipped FX gains a Lane Departure Prevention system as standard (previously an option only), designed to alert the driver with visual and audible signals if the vehicle drifts from its lane.

An advanced dynamic intervention system will also work to steer the vehicle back into its lane if the driver does not respond.

Other updates include a powered tailgate as standard equipment across the range, which can be controlled from buttons in the dash, or from the inside or outside of the tailgate itself, along with a function on the 'I-Key' unit.

A new scratch-shield paint option has also been added, dubbed Malbec Black, replacing Mojave Copper in the FX's eight-colour palette.

When it arrives in Australia late next year, the FX will be available in three variants: the 235kW 3.7 litre petrol V6-powered FX37, the 290kW 5.0 litre petrol V8-powered FX50 and the 175kW 3.0 litre turbo-diesel V6-powered FX30d.