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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  by rich - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By rich de george - November 9 - 8:36 pm

  powerfull,comfortable and excellentin the snow. needs improvement on some luxury features such as auto locking voice activation power rear seats and fold in mirrors. I have had problems with the brakes and a shammying, two times in a 10 mo. vehicle has a lot of cabin nose.

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  qx564u - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By n27je - October 11 - 10:00 am

  fast fun foxy fantastic. tight and sound. low air noise. high torque engine. great layout on dash--angle clock to better see--a/c seats would be a plus. front wheel shocks bottom out-- need greater travel distance. best suv i have had--much better more comfortable better built than: navigator, escalade, lx470 & mercedes.

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  I love it! - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By Karen Walker - October 6 - 10:53 pm

  Its a great vehicle! Has all the bells and whistles that I love! Great around town or on long drives. My kids are entertained with the DVD system and we love the Bose stereo sound.

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  Love this car - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By APearl - September 20 - 2:36 am

  Except for the rear door catching part of the edge of the front door, in certain instances, the car is a dream to drive, and own. Comfort, style and the feeling of being safe on the road is built into this car. Cant wait to take it on a long trip. Expect to take it north in August, and give it a good run on the road.

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  My first non usa made - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By e Sokalski - September 16 - 9:03 pm

  the qx56 has a great ride, plenty of power, fuel is not bad for the size of the car 14 city have not taking on a long trip to get hwy mileage

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  Nothing but Problems - 2011 Infiniti QX56
  By what2do - September 12 - 2:00 am

  At 300 miles I had to put my car in the shop because of vibrations in the steering wheel, a loud roaring noise when you pushed the gas pedal (still unknown why and no fix) heated seats and the windshield wipers not working correctly. My car was in the shop 3-4 times for the same problem, kept saying it was fixed and it wasnt. Consumer Affairs is a mess. Now in the process of Lemon Law and returning the vehicle for a refund. Im really upset because I love this vehicle. It is very nice and love to drive it (besides the problems). But it is not worth the hassle and the stress I have been going through. Apparently, a lot of complaints have been made about the steering and the roaring noise.

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  Awesome SUV...The best - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By Maria - September 7 - 5:06 am

  Best car Ive ever driven. My father owns a 2005 Escalade and by many features, including engine capabilities, my QX56 drives circles around his Caddy!

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  Love this Car - 2007 Infiniti QX56
  By Dee - August 7 - 3:00 pm

  I am in love with this vehicle. Its comfortable, stylish and so much fun to drive. Plus I feel like a million bucks every time I drive it because it feels like luxury. Besides, it also performs very well and runs like a dream.

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  Awesome SUV! - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By Maria - July 31 - 7:26 pm

  I love this car!! Before buying the Infinity, we also looked at the Navigator and the Escalade...there is no comparison.

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  The pinnacle - 2008 Infiniti QX56
  By Gus - July 20 - 4:06 pm

  The QX-56 is the best SUV secret out there. Stunning fit and finish inside, and excellent engine -- torque and power (mileage is poor though). We get 13 mpg in city driving and 16 mpg highway. If you drive 55, youd be able to coax 17.5 or 18 mpg highway. Beautiful leather and wood accents. Electronics are abundant and XM Radio is terrific. Not a "beautiful" car on the outside, but still the best Ive owned.