The Evolution of the Infiniti JX
The Infiniti JX, a midsize luxury SUV, marked a significant chapter in Infiniti’s lineup when it was introduced in the early 2010s. As a flagship three-row crossover, the JX aimed to combine luxury, performance, and practicality. Over its production span, the model underwent various updates, trims, and market positioning changes, culminating in its evolution into the Infiniti QX60. This article provides an in-depth look into the JX’s history, models, and trim levels from inception to discontinuation.
Introduction and Launch (2012-2013)
Market Introduction and Background
Infiniti officially introduced the JX Concept at the 2011 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, garnering significant attention for its sleek design and upscale features. The production version, named the Infiniti JX, was launched as a 2013 model year vehicle in late 2012. The JX was positioned as a luxury three-row crossover targeting families seeking premium features, space, and performance.
Design and Platform
Built on the Nissan FM platform (shared with the Nissan Pathfinder), the JX featured a unibody construction, emphasizing comfort and ride quality. Its design was characterized by a bold grille, sleek lines, and a spacious interior with upscale materials.
Model Years and Production Span (2013-2017)
Production Duration
- Start of Production: Late 2012 for the 2013 model year
- Discontinuation: 2017, as the model was rebranded under the QX series
Key Market Variations
Initially, the JX was available primarily in North America, with limited exports elsewhere. Its production run lasted for five model years, during which it saw incremental updates and feature enhancements.
Trim Levels and Features
2013-2014 Models
At launch, the Infiniti JX was offered with a relatively straightforward trim lineup, emphasizing luxury and technology:
- Base Model (JX35 or JX)
- Standard features included leather upholstery, Bose premium audio, tri-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth connectivity, and a power liftgate.
- Powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing approximately 265 horsepower.
- Front-wheel drive (FWD) was standard; all-wheel drive (AWD) was optional.
- JX Premium (2013-2014)
- Added features like a panoramic sunroof, upgraded interior trim, and a surround-view camera system.
- Available with the AWD system as standard or optional.
- JX Limited (2013-2014)
- The top-tier trim, featuring:
- 20-inch alloy wheels
- Leather-appointed seats with upgraded stitching
- Navigation system with a larger display
- Power tilt/telescoping steering wheel
- Advanced driver-assistance features like forward collision warning and lane departure warning.
2015 Updates
In 2015, the JX saw a mid-cycle refresh with subtle styling updates, improved infotainment, and added safety features. The model retained the same trim levels but with enhancements:
- Introduction of Driver Assistance Package as standard on higher trims, adding blind-spot monitoring and backup collision intervention.
- Slight exterior styling tweaks, including a refreshed grille and LED daytime running lights.
The Transition to the QX60 (2017)
Rebranding and Discontinuation
By 2017, Infiniti decided to streamline its SUV lineup, rebranding the JX as the QX60 to align with its other models’ naming conventions. The JX was discontinued after the 2017 model year, with many of its features and configurations carried over into the new QX60.
QX60: The Evolution Continues
The 2017 Infiniti QX60 inherited the JX’s platform and features but introduced further refinements, including an upgraded engine lineup, more advanced safety features, and a more modern design language.
Technical Specifications and Features Over the Years
| Year | Engine | Power | Drivetrain | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013 | 3.5L V6 | 265 hp | FWD/AWD | Standard leather, Bose audio, tri-zone climate |
| 2014 | 3.5L V6 | 265 hp | FWD/AWD | Slight interior and tech updates |
| 2015 | 3.5L V6 | 265 hp | FWD/AWD | Safety tech improvements, styling tweaks |
| 2016 | 3.5L V6 | 265 hp | FWD/AWD | Additional safety features, interior upgrades |
| 2017 | Discontinued; rebranded as QX60 | – | – | New engine options, modernized styling |
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Notable Features and Innovations
Throughout its lifecycle, the Infiniti JX was known for its luxurious interior, smooth ride, and safety technology. Key features across model years included:
- Infiniti InTouch Infotainment System: Introduced in later years, offering a large dual-screen setup.
- Safety & Driver Assistance: Including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, backup collision intervention, and lane departure warning.
- Comfort & Convenience: Power-folding third-row seats, premium audio systems, heated and ventilated seats, and multiple USB and auxiliary ports.
- Luxury Accents: Wood trim, leather upholstery, and advanced climate control options.
The Legacy and Impact
The Infiniti JX’s success helped solidify Infiniti’s reputation in the luxury SUV market, especially among families seeking a premium vehicle with ample space and advanced features. Its rebranding into the QX60 allowed Infiniti to unify its SUV lineup under a more consistent naming scheme, fostering brand recognition.
The JX’s platform and features laid the groundwork for the subsequent QX60, which received further updates and remained a popular choice in the luxury midsize SUV segment.
Conclusion
The Infiniti JX, produced from 2013 to 2017, was a pivotal model that combined luxury, practicality, and advanced technology in a stylish package. Its trim levels, from the base JX to the fully equipped Limited, offered a range of features catering to diverse customer preferences. Although it was ultimately replaced by the QX60, the JX’s influence persists in Infiniti’s modern crossover offerings, exemplifying a blend of comfort, performance, and innovation.
Note: Specific trim names and features could vary depending on the market and model year.
