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:

• 

  love my truck - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By shelly555 - September 11 - 10:00 am

  I love my truck. I rented one when I had a car accident. I then bought one right away I missed it so much

• 

  Love the ride - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By AL - August 29 - 3:46 pm

  I have taking 3 long trip with my new QX56 the gas miles are great I read that the QZ56 was the worst vehicles of 2005 I dont know what suv they drove or check out but it wasnt mine it rides it run and it performance great

• 

  What a great SUV - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By Mr T - August 10 - 10:00 am

  Have never owned an Infiniti, outstanding SUV, aside from some problems with the dealer, and wishing the color really was Cobalt blue, the body shops say it is actually deep sea metallic blue,it has really been impressive

• 

  The best Big SUV on the market - 2008 Infiniti QX56
  By HHK - August 6 - 11:16 pm

  Had the car for 45 days. Love it. Excellent fit and finish and gadgetry for the price (or any). Finally a big SUV with 20" rims standard (hated large cars with tiny wheels and empty wheel well). Entertainment center is an afterthought and not as well integrated (placed in the center console instead of the front dashboard, screens are not in headrest, plays only one dvd, interface not easily accessible), hence its an option. Puts the Escalade ESV to shame (loud over priced truck) for 20K less. Handles like a large sedan, not a truck.

• 

  Fantastic experience - 2006 Infiniti QX56
  By Me - July 7 - 3:13 pm

  Everything is so good with this vehicle. I have zero complaints. Would buy another one.

• 

  QX 56 - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By Jim - July 6 - 8:53 pm

  This is an excellent driving SUV that is extremely comfortable on the road. Infininti does a great job in backing up their product.

• 

  A Near-Perfect LuxoBrute - 2008 Infiniti QX56
  By MountainMan - June 27 - 10:56 pm

  Ive had a series of high-end super SUVs, including Landcruisers, Land Rovers, Lexus LX470, and I tested all of their most recent models before buying the QX56. This Infiniti is the best by far. It is huge on the inside, FAR larger than a Landcruiser/LX570 or Range Rover. Far more luxurious and full-featured than any other large SUV other than the Range Rover. Everything is well thought out. The exterior is handsome, especially the gigantic chrome grill and chrome roof racks. These trucks are rare enough to continually look fresh, unlike say an X5. At 5000 mile it is still solid, rattle-free, and a joy to drive. I dont think there is a better large SUV out there at any price.

• 

  For once, everything is perfect. - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By A E Pearl - June 17 - 10:00 am

  Had a Yukon XL, nice, but not like the Buggy. Have driven most all types of cars, and this one beats them all. I thought my 2004 M45 was nice, until I test drove this SUV. Have not checked the fuel economy, and probably wont. The pleasure, space, comfort, and awesome looks of this vechicle offset any consumption of fuel. Have a 2004 beetle, and only get 22 MPG. Who cares.

• 

  Best Road Trip Vehicle Ever - 2010 Infiniti QX56
  By ChuckB - June 14 - 6:16 pm

  We purchased this 2010 to replace our 2006 QX56 after running the numbers and arriving on the positive end of the deal! The 2010 handles considerably better, due primarily to the larger diameter/lower profile tire package. In October we drove this beast on a 3,000 mile round trip, in complete comfort. The electronics, incredibly smooth ride and ample power made this junket truly easy. Even the three year old in his car seat had zero complaints (DVD player to the rescue!). Gas mileage is not good, but the trade results in superior safety and performance.

• 

  The QX56 is fine - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By DJ - June 1 - 9:00 pm

  I read some mixed reviews before going to the dealership and test driving the QX56 for myself. Funny how the Nissan Armada gets consistently high reviews and the QX gets a hard time from the MSN car reviewer expert when the QX and Armada are sisters with the same engine and body but the QX has a quieter ride with all the luxury carpet and leather. Plus, the QX costs 10-25K less than other luxury competetion. It is most comfortable and has awesome power w/the best towing capability of any SUV. Love the interior and styling is fine, much better than the square SUVs that look so generic regardless of what badge is stuck on them.