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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  What a Piece of Junk! - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By bigd63 - August 17 - 10:00 am

  Off the lot the driver side sun visor was damaged, the cruise control didnt work and after one week the navigation system broke. Ergonomically all the controls are deficient. This SUV is an incredible disappointment for its price.

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  It is just the best - 2008 Infiniti QX56
  By Guillermo - August 2 - 9:56 am

  I bought this big SUV days ago and it is the best car I ever had. The comfort, technology, engine response and features are way ahead any other SUV at this moment. The new features on the 08 model are exactly the ones I expected and the reason why I never bought a QX before. My previous car was an FX35 which I loved too, but it was kind of small for my family. I highly recommend this vehicle for a test drive, I am sure you wont be disappointed. The ride is much better than the previous version with the improved tire quality (Michelin) and 20" rims. The traffic feature helps you to avoid congested areas and is easy to use. The downside is fuel economy.

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  Great vehicle; Smooth.....but jittery - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By Tim - July 23 - 8:23 pm

  We owned a Yukon and considered the Escalade and LX450 when we bought the QX56. While the overall vehicle has been very good, and the ride also very good, it still has some jitters and noise on the highway that were not experienced in the other vehicles. Most of the time, the QX56 has felt very smooth on the road and has been extremely comfortable on long hauls to Mammoth. Comfort is great, but at times the ride and feel on the freeway can feel a bit jittery and truck-like inferior to the ride we experienced with the Yukon,or the other cars we drove. Roomy all around. Great 2nd row - limo- like room. Same height and width, but the extra 8" length over the Yukon are surprisingly noticeable.

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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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  Great fun vehicle - 2007 Infiniti QX56
  By merton - July 6 - 2:40 pm

  Bought the QX56 over Memorial Day weekend, gave up on the 08 becoming available any time soon. We got a great price, car rides and feels firm on the road and turns much better (tighter) than the FX35 that we traded. Get the XM radio, its great. Strong performer with 320hp. Gas mileage is what I expected for this size auto. Fit and finish is excellent and we like the safety features for us and 6 grandchildren.

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  Better Than All - 2006 Infiniti QX56
  By Long Paul - June 15 - 2:43 pm

  This car has so much power, acceleration and is so solid and quiet. A fantastic freeway cruiser and it seats 8. Corners not much worse than my E320 Mercedes. The heated seats are nice and the split rear seat is a big plus. Tons of leg room in the second row. Pick this car over some junky American version like Cadillac or Chevy.

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  Brakes & Rattles - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By Q 56 2004 - June 11 - 6:03 pm

  This is a great car to drive, however the car has poorly designed brakes. Mine were replaced by dealer after being in shop three times. I strongly recommend all Q56 owners have their brakes check. The dealer has not been able to get rid of all the rattles. At two miles hour bumpers will sustain damage upon hitting object. Dealer did not imfom me that I needed to use premium gas until after I purchase the Q56.

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  My New 56 - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By soxit - May 28 - 10:00 am

  Would have prefered to have daytime running lights Sometimes the saftey belts are hard to locate to buckleup at start up Love the leg room in third row seats best Ive seen Best cargo room with third and/or second row searts down for vehicle size Back seat passanger comfort superb Whis fuel consumption was better but would buy again

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  I LOVE MY INFINITI QX-56 - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By ALFRED BROWN - May 23 - 10:00 am

  I LOVE DRIVING MY NEW INFINITI QX56. FOR IT TO BE AS BIG AS IT IS THE RIDE IS LIKE BEING IN A LUXURY CAR. IT HANDLES QUITE WELL FOR ITS SIZE. i ALWAYS EORRY ABOUT A VEHICLE THIS TURNING OVER SHOLD I SURVE TO AVOID A VEHICLE AT HIGH SPEED. WELL IT HAPPEN TO ME MY QX56 HELD THE ROAD AND NOW I DON"T WORRY ABOUT THIS VEHICLE STAYING ON ALL FOUR WHEELS. I JUST LOVE IT AND FEEL TOTALLY SAFE IN IT WITH MY ENTIRE FAMILY.

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  Love My QX56 - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By SUVHappy - May 23 - 10:00 am

  I just bought my QX56 and I am thrilled! The interior is luxurious and comfortable -- lots of gadgets and buttons to play with! The exterior turns heads and it is like riding on air!