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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  Better than the Competition - 2011 Infiniti QX56
  By Houston P - August 25 - 5:26 am

  Traded a 2007 Escalade for it. I do not miss the Escalade at all. The advanced electronic package is barely shy of an airplane. So is the external camera array. Very except cal at the beginning, I am using all the driving assist options now. Smooth ride and, finally, a good style. I own luxury cars since 2000, including Lexus, Porsche and Cadillac. This is the best car I ever had. Tried towing a boat and did it effortlessly.

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  My First Foreign auto. - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By Tony Barcellona - August 20 - 9:00 am

  I love my QX56. I compared Escalde, Denali, Lexus, Toyota, Armada and others. The QX56 was by for the best equipped, best warranty and the best value at $50,000. I will trade it in for another QX56 in 2008 no matter what the price gas goes to.

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  Excellent - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By rrsandlin - July 24 - 7:33 pm

  The vehicle is extremely comfortable in driving and riding. Gas mileage seems no better or worse than other SUVs previously owned. Brakes have been the biggest problem; however I live in a very hilly part of the US.

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  2006 QX 56 - 2006 Infiniti QX56
  By Gaylord - July 13 - 10:26 pm

  I am very impressed with the vehicle. The interior room and quality of meterials is excellent. Towing capacity very impressive, Exterior is very impressive. Ive owned GMC Yukons and find that the Infiniti is superior. Our family now owns 2 infinitis a QX56 and a FX35.

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  Driver and Vehicle Become One - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By ed klee - July 2 - 12:33 am

  The instrument panel is very attractive with out effecting the need for being functonal. Instrumentation did not leave me wanting! The comfort of the seats and color co-ordination with the hardwear; first class. they just didnt miss a beat from the rear view monitor to the navigation system and ever thing in between.I would like to know what if anything they left out. The exterior is a combination of the look of power and style just what i was looking for in an suv. Under the hood total power and acceleration more than I can use.

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  kudos - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By LC - June 30 - 5:06 pm

  The QX 56 has taken us by surprise. We previously had suburbans and lincolns and this vehicle beats both hands down.It lacks the rear space of the suburban, but has enough room. The smoothness, handly and quality are above and beyond what we expected. great car for the price. We looked at Sequioas and the interior space was not as nice as the infiniti. A great family SUV. Highly recommended.

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  Bigger is Better - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By Lopez - June 20 - 10:13 am

  A/C could be stronger at the beginning. But does fine once vehicle has driven for a short period. Only item I would change inside is split third row seats. Everything else is excellent! So far so good only 700 miles. Happier now then with my Lexus RX 330!

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  QX56 - Best Bang For The Buck! Love IT! - 2010 Infiniti QX56
  By BHR - June 18 - 11:50 am

  Bought this vehicle after owning an FX35 and then G37. Great vehicle and best bang for the buck compared to other luxury vehicles. Wanted bigger and something safer after having a baby. This is definitely a great vehicle to have with a growing family! Miss the FX, but love the QX

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  Love the 2011 QX56 - 2011 Infiniti QX56
  By tnnuke - June 10 - 2:34 am

  Bought the 2011 QX56 4x4 with theatre package in March. Paid invoice with VPP from Sam Swope Infiniti in Louisville, Ky. My 52" 120# wife loves this big SUV. It drives much smaller and the ride quality and quietness is awesome. Already put 11K miles on the vehicle. Seems I see Escalades everywhere, but seldom come across a new style QX56. It is truly the only updated large SUV out there. The 400hp engine makes it a beast when you want it to be.

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  Still like it! - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By InfintiGuy - May 28 - 10:06 pm

  Could not believe my wife still wanted this vehicle after the 04 we rented with the terrible brakes and all the bad reviews we read. A year and a half later - so far, so great. We really like this SUV. There is a little more rattling than we care for. Looking forward to getting the next redesigned model with all the bugs worked out.