Overview & Reviews

Exemplifying the "bigger is better" school of thought, the Infiniti QX56 is a worthy competitor among full-size luxury SUVs. Through the course of two generations, the QX56 benefited from a powerful V8 engine and above-average towing capabilities. Off-road prowess, on the other hand, was never a primary concern, as the QX56 was intended more for urban recreation or pulling a boat to the river. For scenarios such as those, the QX56 managed quite well, with a comfortable cabin and myriad high-tech features.

The first-generation QX56 suffered from some less-than-luxurious interior materials and less cargo capacity, but the second-generation model addressed those shortcomings. As the QX was designed to be more of a versatile and foul-weather-capable luxury transport than a wilderness tamer, rugged outdoorsmen may want to look elsewhere. But those seeking a well-appointed used luxury SUV should be well served by either of the brawny Infiniti QX56 generations.

Note that for 2012 this model's name was changed to QX and then again for 2014 to QX80. They are covered in separate reviews.

Used Infiniti QX56 Models
The last Infiniti QX56 generation was technically only produced for 2011, when this vehicle was completely redesigned. However, it continued on with minimal changes under the new names mentioned above, so used shoppers won't be missing out on much. Compared to the older model, this second-generation QX56 boasts better handling, greater refinement and more power. It is based on an off-road-ready Nissan SUV available in other markets rather than a full-size pickup truck like the first QX56 was.

This full-size luxury SUV seats seven or eight passengers and came loaded with a wealth of standard features like 20-inch wheels, xenon headlights, tri-zone automatic climate control, a top-view camera system, a power-folding third-row bench seat and a 13-speaker Bose audio system. Optional highlights included an active suspension system, a twin-screen rear entertainment system, ventilated front seats, adaptive cruise control and a host of high-tech safety features designed to either prevent a crash or protect the occupants in the event of one.

A 5.6-liter V8 with 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque powers the QX56. A seven-speed automatic is the only transmission offered and features manual shift control with rev-matched downshifts. Rear-wheel drive is standard, with four-wheel drive optional. Properly equipped, the QX can tow an impressive 8,500 pounds and is aided by a tow/haul mode for the transmission as well as an automatic-leveling rear suspension.

In reviews, we found this QX56 to be a pretty impressive luxury SUV, with the large collection of features and potent V8 being the main draws. Downsides include cramped third-row seating and a ride quality that's not as smooth as what's provided by competing models.

The first-generation QX56 debuted for the 2004 model year and lasted until 2010. It shared its chassis and other major mechanicals with the Armada SUV and Titan pickup. Under the hood the QX came with a 5.6-liter V8 that produced 320 hp and 393 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed automatic was standard, and buyers could choose between rear-wheel- and four-wheel drive. There was only one available trim level, and pretty much every feature was standard. The few notable options included a rear-seat entertainment system, adaptive cruise control and a sunroof.

Infiniti made only minor changes early on, including a 60/40 split for the third-row seat, a standard Bluetooth hands-free system and enhanced exterior mirrors for 2006. The biggest changes occurred for '08, when subtle styling changes and a significant interior redesign made it look and feel like a more upscale vehicle, with improved materials quality and a new instrument cluster design. That year, the standard equipment list grew and the audio and navigation systems were updated.

In road tests, our editors praised the Infiniti QX56 for its refined powertrain, smooth ride and family-friendly passenger quarters. Acceleration was impressive and fuel economy, though dismal, was at least comparable to other full-size SUVs. However, many of its competitors offered a better mix of everything. Models previous to 2008 were also let down by lackluster interior quality.

User Reviews:

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  RattleSUV - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By RattleSUV - December 25 - 8:16 pm

  The car has had enough rattles for 20 auto. It has been in service at least every month working on the rattle and front wheel rattle. Would never purchase another Infiniti again after this experience.

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  stranded again - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By diane - February 19 - 6:03 am

  My car is stuck in park again. First time, service mgr said it was a bad shifter. 2nd time my cell phone charger was blamed for blowing the fuse leaving me stranded in a parking lot at night. This is the third time Ive been stranded. My cell phone charger was not even in the car. It is beginning to rattle too. I wish Id never traded my Lexus.

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  Nothing but problems - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By s doughty - December 29 - 5:10 am

  we have had nothing but problems with this car. Brakes have been replaced 3 times already, cruise has never worked, front window gets stuck continuely, dvd replaced twice, and the car is now beginning to rattle at various spots. We are trying to use the lemon law to get our money back.

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  Wait for the 2006 - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By Infiniti driver - March 30 - 5:43 pm

  I believe Infiniti makes a good automobile. I think because of the newness of this vehicle there are a lot of problems that need to be adjusted. I have had 2 blow out tires. Ive had shaking when I apply brakes. (Rotors were recalled in the middle of winter - thats scary) Problems with Heat turning on and off, problem with seat warmer.

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  Dont buy a QX56!!! - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By Diana - February 8 - 8:50 am

  I bought my QX56 12/04 and it has been in the shop 8 times for rattling from the headliner!! 3 times for brake repairs and I only have 7K miles on this thing!! The dealership is worthless and I am frustrated. Its not fun driving a car that has the most awful squeak/rattle coming from above constantly! Even my 2 small kids and the radio cant drown out that noise! It has also been in for the gear shifter sticking twice. Please think twice about this vehicle....its not worth it!

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  2005 QX56 4X4 - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By jlolson - July 18 - 9:06 pm

  I bought this vehicle because I LOVE my G35. The QX is a decent ride with a powerful engine and lots of cargo room. Seats move around easily, third row folds flat and is easily accessed. The QX Comes equipped with cheap tires that wont stay balanced and need to be replaced for a good ride. Interior appointments are nice except for the dash which is straight out of the Armada and not up to luxury standards. The Nav system is sub-par for a vehicle in this price range, Acuras nav is 100 times better. With not a lot of Japanese vehicles to chose from in this size and price range its not a bad vehicle but I dont love it like my G35.

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  Good looking but poor quality - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By SDT - September 20 - 10:00 am

  While I enjoy the spaciousness of the QX56, I am VERY disappointed in the overall quality of the vehicle. As a former Lexus owner, I was looking for a quality (slightly larger) SUV. The QX56 fit the bill in size but the quality-stops me COLD. In 2 months, my catalytic converter has gone bad & there is a major squeak in the front passenger seat. The problem is that no one can tell me when the part will arrive even though it was "ordered at the highest customer service level (i.e. off road)". In the meantime, my vehicle sounds like a tank-inside and out!! I expected better quality & service in a vehicle of this price range. In my opinion, Infiniti has failed

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  Poor quality,QC Eng reviewed - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By captlear55 - August 9 - 10:00 am

  The QX-56 is a great looking SUV. The build quality is very poor. The basic structure of the vehicle is flawed.Sqeaks and rattles are abundant. The roof panel will "tin can" if a single window is opened at speeds above 60 mph. Window regulators have failed (2),drivers seat has failed,overhead console has fallen down. The total enjoyment of what should have been a great SUV has been lost. Dealer was not able to fix due to a lack of parts. Nissan went to production without a robust supply of service parts resulting in 5 months of wait time before repair.

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  QX 56 New Buyer - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By Dave3110 - August 9 - 10:00 am

  Had initial quality problems after getting the car: Replacement of map bezel. Steering wheel does not extend every time I get in the car and put key in ignition. Dealer is unable to find problem so I have to live with it. Radio antenna on rear window was broken, If you hold the cruise control lever up for a couple seconds the car lags and then a few seconds later races from 60 to 90 before it can be stopped. Dealer says they are aware of this and can do nothing about it. I like the performance, handling, power and comfort very much. I had 2 Lexus before this and the service just is not up to par with what I am used to. Hope they improve.

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  Youve seen the good news, now the bad - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By Texas Girl08 - July 9 - 3:23 pm

  I loved my Q4x4 the first year I had it, but it started falling about at about 25k miles. In for repairs for failing elec system... rear liftgate wont lift (at all), tells you liftgate is open when it is not, flashes and beeps warning for flat tire when there is none, dvd is very noisy and the screen is not fastened securely. After the first year it bounces noisily, heated seats went out, driver seat lumbar broke, rear third row seat broke, nav system went out... these are highlights! Will never buy Infiniti again and selling this.