Introduced for the 2003 model year, this nameplate helped define the modern performance crossover before that idea was widely accepted. It paired a sporty, coupe-like profile with the practicality of a midsize SUV, giving the vehicle a distinct place in the luxury market and helping establish the brand’s reputation for bold design. Early versions stood out for their low, wide stance and driver-focused character, which made them feel closer to an enthusiast-oriented sport sedan than a traditional utility vehicle.
A major update arrived with the second generation for 2009, when the line was redesigned with a more refined shape, expanded technology, and a stronger emphasis on premium comfort while keeping its performance-first identity. Over its life, the model became known for combining rear-biased proportions, available all-wheel drive, and a package of advanced safety and convenience features that were unusual for the segment when first introduced. It also played an important role in introducing driver-assistance technology to the brand, including Lane Departure Warning.
The nameplate remained on sale through the 2012 model year. After that, the broader FX line was reworked and ultimately renamed, but this specific badge did not return as a separate revived series. As a result, its history is best understood as one continuous production run from the early 2000s through the early 2010s, spanning the original launch era and the later, more polished second-generation version.