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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  QX56 4x4 Excellent Full Size SUV - 2008 Infiniti QX56
  By Jay Zar of Calif. - January 4 - 3:33 pm

  Excellent full size SUV for a medium to large family that needs space and the ability to haul or tow weight. We pack a lot when we travel. We have been on icy roads, full snow storms, up to 1 foot of snowed in driveways, mud, dirt, rain... you name, we have done it with a load of 2 adults, 3 medium to large dogs, and one child. This car outperforms Ford Expeditions, GMC Yukon, Chevy Tahoes, and others in the areas of braking, handling and overall feel. With a full load, of around 800 lbs, we average about 15.2 mpg. Just in town around 14.5 and mostly freeway with no load around 16.5 going about 70 mph. Our 2007 Acura MDX with a full load averaged only 14.5 mpg. We use regular fuel 87.

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  2005 QX56 - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By ZRMann - December 15 - 5:20 pm

  Just purchased and have approx. 1400 miles. Does everything it is supposed to in a first-class manner. Spent a week behind the wheel of a Navigator and the QX is way ahead of the Navigator in terms of ride quality, design, and comfort. Fantastic 1st gen effort here. Cant wait till my lease is up to see what the 2nd gen brings!! I love this QX!!!

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  Rating 2005 Infiniti QX56 - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By Seman R. Jenkins - November 12 - 6:30 pm

  I am totally impressed with the styling, and performance of this unit. The interior is roomy and yes instrument panel is strategically designed and functional. The ride is Outstanding. This is my second Infiniti.

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  beast - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By haire - October 31 - 2:30 pm

  we love it. notice some noise and needs wind shield. great to drive. drove to canada our first trip right after we purchased. its really a head turner. still not many on the road.

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  suv - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By ao - October 29 - 2:50 am

  great comfort and performance stylish interior design best value for large suv minor nagging problems such as window rattling and sunroof shade rattling

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  Fickle No More: QX56 Loyalist - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By Fickle Buyer - October 26 - 2:53 am

  Our search for the Dream family-sized SUV ended with the QX56. The size, ride, handling, ergonomics (exception: useless clock)and build quality is exceptional in this category. We blew through an Expedition EB (dont get me started), and a Sequoia Ltd (why do they STILL not have a fold- flat 3rd seat???)to get here. We ordered the bench 2nd-row: the 3rd doesnt split, requiring you to open the whole seat if you have 5 passengers in the Capts chair option. Just took a trip w/4 people,1 dog,4 sets of clubs & luggage.Plenty roomy! Mileage on hwy fully loaded is +/- 16mpg. Range of 400 miles per tank is great. Very smooth on and off-road (mudding through a construction zone). Buy it now!

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  Upgrade from the Sequoia - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By mike101 - October 21 - 10:00 am

  We traded our 2002 Sequoia in for the QX56. It is definitely a step up in power and luxury. It seems to be a better value than the Lexus and the Escalade.

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  Love this SUV! - 2010 Infiniti QX56
  By aclarose1 - September 17 - 10:10 am

  3-time Escalade owner ,talked my husband into checking out the QX b/c I didnt want another GM vehicle. What a nice surprise. The value of getting this car nearly fully loaded as the base model for at least $10K less than the 09 and $15-20K less than the 10 Escalade would have been enough reason, but the car is just impressive. The base model is loaded... VERY well appointed. Its a beautiful vehicle with a masculine stately presence. My hubby, a die-hard Escalade lover, is a convert! This is the best kept secret out there. No buyers remorse here - love, love, love this SUV!

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  Surplus of horsepower - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By md - September 4 - 10:10 am

  I needed something that seats six comfortably. The Sequoia, Escalade and Navigator 3rd row could not compare. This SUV has incredible horsepower (315) and comes to a stop in a hurry. GPS navigation is awesome (makes me feel like getting lost on purpose). The family loves it. The intelligent cruise control, the rear view camera, the memory seats (includes side mirrors and foot pedal adjustments) are great. Heated seats in the driver, passenger and second row a nice touch as well. During the cold weather months the remote start is a pleasure. The nimble handling is almost as impressive as the acceleration (both low and midrange). I would recommend this vehicle in a heartbeat.

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  Great Truck, Or Luxury Car - 2010 Infiniti QX56
  By NJ 2010 QX56 - September 2 - 10:20 am

  This car replaced a Yukon XL 2500 and was chosen because of its ability to tow a 9000 pound trailer, a requirement for us that eliminated many alternatives. In the end, it rides as well and is quieter than our E320 sedan. Interior materials, especially in wheat, are excellent in presentation having both a quality feel and look. Electronics is probably the best out there although not perfect. Handling is like a large car...easy to place. It handles NY/NJ broken roads better than anything...partially thanks to standard 33" tall tires, larger than any SUV other than a Hummer and sister SUV the Nissan Armada. 2010 is its last year, being replaced an Infinti model of the new 2010 Nissan Patrol.