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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  EYE SHOCKING SUV - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By jody Riddle - May 23 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle is smooth, reliable, quiet, and eye catching. I get more compliments off this suv. I have had minor problems which were taken care of by the dealer.

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  Satisfied QX 56 customer - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By TJA - April 14 - 10:20 pm

  Definitely better value/fun quotient over Escalade and Navigator, better new car price too. This is one of those "no brainer" buying decisions. After 2+ years and 45,000 miles would definitely do it again!

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  AWESOME SUV. Better than my Hummer - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By Lifesafety - April 12 - 6:40 pm

  Have owned Hummer, Suburban, and custome vans. This QX 56 gets better mileage, 21 mph at 70 mph and its features are topped by no one.Love the laser controlled cruise control. Ill never have to use my brakes again in traffic. The QX 56 does it for us

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  Big disappointment - 2008 Infiniti QX56
  By amber - March 27 - 5:03 pm

  I just turned in my 04 Armada, got the 08 QX56, looking forward to a great sound system with all my music on the hardrive. Alas, I did not research it enough because I couldnt find any info it. Hardrive can only be loaded by recording CDs to it.Takes forever. I have no CDs anymore.The Compact Flash Medium is ill-conceived/junk. Infiniti sales people must have been told to play dumb because none of them acknowledge what a limited feature this is. Single CD player only. None of this info anywhere on website or marketing materials. I would not pay an extra nickel for it. Buy the Armada and dont option it. I had brake issues on the 04, I hope that is done with.

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  great - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By wow!!!!!!!! - March 8 - 2:00 am

  great suv. one of the best interiors i have seen in a suv. way better than the escalade. Im glad i traded my 02 escalade for this.

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  Big SUV drives like a car - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By AlexAk - March 8 - 2:00 am

  Greate value, fun to drive, exelent turning radius. Power?... a lot of it. Family loves it, complements from my neighbors. Took it for a short trip to Santa Barbara very impressed with freeway handling and quiet ride, kids enjoyed "on board" movie. Overall better value then our 2001 Escalade.

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  Deal of The Century!! - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By MIke - March 4 - 10:00 am

  This is one of the best full size luxury SUV out on the market now!!! What makes it even better is the price. The only car Ive ever bought that I paid full list for. That price point makes it a little easier to swollow!!

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  Redefine Luxury SUV - 2006 Infiniti QX56
  By James - February 3 - 7:06 pm

  I just bought this SUV at the first of this month. I am in love with this SUV. I saw one in town and just fell in love with it. I almost got a speeding ticket trying to find out what kind of SUV that was. I stay in a small town in southwest GA and all luxury cars that are down here are Lexus, Lincolns, and Cadillacs an occasional Audi or Mercedies. This SUV stands out. I thought about gettting an Escalade or a Navigator but everyone has one so when I saw the Infiniti I just knew that was the SUV for me. My QX56 is fully loaded. Thank you so much Roswell Infiniti of Roswell GA.

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  Bought one of last 2004 Infiniti QX56s - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By Dollerbill - February 1 - 6:43 pm

  Was a little concerned about buying a 2004 model, but Ive owned it for two weeks & I love it. My freind just bought a new 2004 Lincoln Navigator, so we did a side by side comparrison. The Infiniti QX56 kills it. It has more horsepower and torque.The styling of both trucks is great, but the fit and finish of the QX56 is better than the Navigators. The Navigators rear hatch motor is very noisy, while the QX56s is quiet. My friend has owned Navigator for three months and it hasalready been in the shop three times. He wishes he bought the QX56. I love the birds eye veiw Navigation system and the stereo. The interior is unique with the blond wood and bushed alum; very plush & comfertable. This SUV is very fast & fun to drive. I look forward to driving it any time I have to someware.

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  Comfy Cabin - 2006 Infiniti QX56
  By Paul m - January 26 - 8:16 am

  The QX56 has great off the line power. The front seats are extremely comfortable. The ride is smooth. There were a lot of things that needed to be repaired because of poor workmanship at the 3,750 mile checkup. Middle seat cupholders are in a bad place and have been broken twice when stepped on in the dark. With everything working well this car is great if you have kids!