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:

• 

  none - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By bigb . - November 10 - 10:00 am

  the car is refined and a dream to drive. it definely turns heades

• 

  Best SUV Value! - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By Redsilk - October 4 - 10:00 am

  Had the QX56 for 6 weeks so far, and driven on winding roads of NC and humid weather in GA and SC...got great mileage on freeway 19-20, handles like a car and power to pass 4 18 wheelers in a burst of power, could have pass up 10 18 wheelers if i had to. So far, no problems mechanically or comfortwise.

• 

  Outstanding - 2008 Infiniti QX56
  By kenn1926 - September 20 - 6:03 pm

  I researched every fullsize SUV available, the QX is the best by far. I tow my 25 foot Sea Ray with weighs approx 8000 lbs with the trailer with ease. Great truck, features I still havent used in 10 months of ownership.

• 

  Love It! - 2007 Infiniti QX56
  By Love my Infinity! - September 19 - 12:50 am

  This SUV rocks! Not boring, not snobby, not ghetto. Just reliable, classy, well appointed transport. Its built like a tank and is very safe. (I crashed, I know.)

• 

  Step up from the more expensive Escalade - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By Mills - September 7 - 6:43 am

  Wonderful vehicle. Technologically superior to our 2002 Escalade (as well as the 2005 we considered). I am a large guy and the interior room is best I have experienced. completely pleased so far.

• 

  HAPPY - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By RICHARD & LISA - August 28 - 10:00 am

  WE NEEDED THE TOWING ABILITY, AND THIS SUV HAS IT. WE HATE THE GAS MILAGE IT GETS. BUT WE WILL DEAL WITH IT.COULD LOOK BETTER ON OUTSIDE.

• 

  Amazing Truck - 2008 Infiniti QX56
  By Mike Penfold - August 24 - 7:43 am

  The truck is great, I purchased it to replace my 07 EXT due to a baby on the way. I needed something with better crash ratings. The funny thing is that two days after purchasing the truck, a 75FT tree fell across the highway and I had to go through it at 75MPH. If I were to have the GM, I would most likely not be typing this. This truck saved my wifes and my life. I added a remote starter on the truck. A bit pricey, but extremely useful. Also added an I-Pod attachment that plays video and made it so that I can control the GPS and watch video while driving.

• 

  Best full size SUV - 2011 Infiniti QX56
  By Aspen CO - August 23 - 7:20 pm

  I just purchased the 11 QX56 as our family vehicle. Very, very smooth and powerful drivetrain. Beautiful and high quality interior as well as amazing technology. In my opinion, there is not a better full size luxury SUV at any price. The Lexus LX570 cost at least $15k more and the Infiniti is a better vehicle. We do a lot of mountain driving and it worth every penny.

• 

  My new QX - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By rawdog - August 21 - 10:00 am

  I just purchased the QX56. After test driving the other full-size SUVs, I find the QX to be the best performing vehicle and the best value. We are very please with this purchase.

• 

  TRIED THEM ALL - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By CLB - August 19 - 6:13 am

  I tried every large SUV on the market to take advantage of the SUV tax break. I really wanted a Lexus but there was just something about the Lexus that seemed like it was 5 years behiond the times, even the GX. Someone told me to try the Infinity Q56. Its a luxury liner. All the luxury and comfort of a Lexus and then some, and then the brute power to pull anything and go pretty much anywhere.