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:

• 

  INFINITI QX56 REVIEW - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By CRAZY BOB - February 15 - 10:00 am

  THE QX56 TAKES THE BUMPS OUT OF THE ROAD. IT HAS ALOT OF POWER COMPARED TO GM AND FORD PRODUCTS. EXTREMLY COMFORTABLE TO DRIVE.

• 

  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!

• 

  Our second QX56 - 2006 Infiniti QX56
  By Allen Pearl - January 23 - 7:16 am

  We were called to test drive the new QX56, and told of a very handsome rebate to owners of the 2004QX56. We loved the 2004, and had no problems with it, now even the brskes. The deal we were offered on the new Q was the best deal we had ever had on any vehicle, and grabbed the new car. Very happy with the car,and all of its new refinements. We have found that the price of fuel is of no consequence where safety is involved. We feel safe with the car, love to drive it, and enjoy all the stares from people on the road. Nice job, Nisan, this is our 5th Infiniti since 1998. We are customers for ever.

• 

  Picked over Mercedes - 2006 Infiniti QX56
  By rhino2000 - January 19 - 9:56 pm

  My wife and I were sold on the Mercedes GL-450 until she drove the QX56. Not only was the hype of a Mercedes false, but the QX56 was superior. We only wish they offered the Intelligent Key allowing entry wihtout pressing any buttons. Power folding seats would also be nice. Howevver; these features are not worth the $20k difference of the Mercedes. We are so happy we chose this vehicle over the Mercedes. If you are in the market for a large SUV, you MUST drive this one! Also, the Infiniti service is second to none.

• 

  Hats off to Infiniti - 2011 Infiniti QX56
  By nbhangtfan - January 18 - 10:00 am

  We traded in our 2001 QX4 with 150K miles for this beauty. Got the 2WD version (live in the South) with the Theater package - kids LOVE it. My son can play his games while my daughter listens to her Ipod or watches a movie. Interior is FIRST RATE in terms of feel and ride quality. The navigation and 360 degree safety camera is really a great feature. Performance of the engine is awesome and you will outgun many sedans even though this is a Large SUV. Gas mileage could be a little better, but cmon for 400 horsepower, who cares? Infiniti really got the design right for the luxury SUV market this time, would have never bought the prior model since it looked too much like a truck.

• 

  Bang for the buck - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By Ash Man - January 3 - 10:00 am

  Excellent Handling, luxurious Ride, good sensible instrumentation, good balance of horse power and torque, roomy interior, classy exterior makes it a near perfect luxury SUV.

• 

  Great Chioce - 2008 Infiniti QX56
  By CTJ - December 4 - 8:50 am

  This is a great vehicle for the price. Even not factoring in the price, it is a great vehicle. I compared the QX to the Lexus LX 570. The LX has great bells and whistles, but the trade offs for going into the QX with the great price savings make the choice a no brainer.

• 

  Awesome! - 2011 Infiniti QX56
  By 11infinitiqx - November 27 - 9:21 am

  I first bought a QX in 05 when I got my license. Traded in 2010 for my 2011.

• 

  Bad Infinity QX 56 - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By BadInfinity - November 24 - 2:46 pm

  This is without a doubt the worst vehicle that I have ever owned. I am 55 and trade every 2 years. I traded out of a Lexus LX470 into the Infiniti QX56. In the first 20,000 miles the brakes failed 4 times. The rotors replaced & resurfaced 3 times. The ABS and skid control malfunction almost killing me. It is a noisy, rough piece of junk. Traded it today for an 07 Escalade. WHAT A RELIEF! The Cadillac is far superior in ride, quality, and technology. Not to mention fuel economy. The weird noises, parts falling off and brake failures on the QX are almost laughable. A true GARBAGE TRUCK!

• 

  One Smooth Truck - 2010 Infiniti QX56
  By EasyRider - November 18 - 3:30 pm

  Have had the truck for six weeks. Fantastic ride, fantastic build quality. Traded my Escalade. The Infiniti is so superior in every way. The quietness in combination with the standard Bose Stereo is unbelievable. This is a very high quality, smooth riding, luxury machine. Push button fold down third row seats, back up camera, extremely comfortable seats make this a vehicle I will keep for some time. Gas mileage about the same as the Escalade. Much more vehicle than the Lexus or MB options I considered, and considerably less expensive--but the finish and quality are equal to any.