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:

• 

  THIS is a different vehicle! - 2011 Infiniti QX56
  By snakebite3 - November 8 - 2:04 pm

  I bought a 2010 QX56 and kept it a total of 4 weeks before trading it for a Sequioa. So... I Took my wifes G37x in for routine maintenance one day a few weeks ago and while waiting for the work to get finished, saw the new 2011 QX56 and thought to myself "Wow that thing is ugly." A salesman approched me and asked if I wanted to drive it and I declined, telling him I had bought a QX last year and traded it after only one month. He said, "But THIS QX is way different that last years model." So...I drove it. And then I bought it! And so far, this vehicle is the best ridding, the quietest (wind noise? what freaking wind noise?), best equipted, most awesome SUV ever.

• 

  Great towing - awesome truck - 2006 Infiniti QX56
  By Butch - October 20 - 8:33 am

  After researching over a year comparing Navigators, Yukons, Sequoias and others we are VERY happy we chose the QX56. We just returned from Lake Powell towing 10 hours each way, the QX made the trip seem easy. Lots of torque for towing, no problem pulling a 3,000 lb boat up long grades using AC in 115 degree heat. The load leveling worked superb! Its very quiet and comfortable and fun to drive, handles almost as good as my BMW 740. I read a lot of reviews and felt confused by the contrast of those who love and hate this truck - glad we took the chance because we love it. If you tow it is a good choice with load leveling and tow mode shifting.

• 

  Best SUV on the Road - 2011 Infiniti QX56
  By cory11 - October 16 - 1:30 am

  I had a 1998 Landcruiser, drove a sedan for a while and then bought a 2010 Toyota 4-runner. I wanted something more luxurious so I started looking at SUVs. Range Rover, LX570, Navigator and Escalade (nothing else really out there). I drove the QX and loved it! Great power, fabulous interior, excellent exterior! I bought one and have put only 200 miles on it, but it is clearly the best SUV on the road!

• 

  Good looking but poor quality - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By SDT - September 20 - 10:00 am

  While I enjoy the spaciousness of the QX56, I am VERY disappointed in the overall quality of the vehicle. As a former Lexus owner, I was looking for a quality (slightly larger) SUV. The QX56 fit the bill in size but the quality-stops me COLD. In 2 months, my catalytic converter has gone bad & there is a major squeak in the front passenger seat. The problem is that no one can tell me when the part will arrive even though it was "ordered at the highest customer service level (i.e. off road)". In the meantime, my vehicle sounds like a tank-inside and out!! I expected better quality & service in a vehicle of this price range. In my opinion, Infiniti has failed

• 

  Poor quality,QC Eng reviewed - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By captlear55 - August 9 - 10:00 am

  The QX-56 is a great looking SUV. The build quality is very poor. The basic structure of the vehicle is flawed.Sqeaks and rattles are abundant. The roof panel will "tin can" if a single window is opened at speeds above 60 mph. Window regulators have failed (2),drivers seat has failed,overhead console has fallen down. The total enjoyment of what should have been a great SUV has been lost. Dealer was not able to fix due to a lack of parts. Nissan went to production without a robust supply of service parts resulting in 5 months of wait time before repair.

• 

  QX 56 New Buyer - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By Dave3110 - August 9 - 10:00 am

  Had initial quality problems after getting the car: Replacement of map bezel. Steering wheel does not extend every time I get in the car and put key in ignition. Dealer is unable to find problem so I have to live with it. Radio antenna on rear window was broken, If you hold the cruise control lever up for a couple seconds the car lags and then a few seconds later races from 60 to 90 before it can be stopped. Dealer says they are aware of this and can do nothing about it. I like the performance, handling, power and comfort very much. I had 2 Lexus before this and the service just is not up to par with what I am used to. Hope they improve.

• 

  Our new Q56 - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By Jeffrey Warnken - August 9 - 10:00 am

  My wife and I have owned 3 surburbans, so we decided to step up into a differnt design. We have enjoyed this suv as much as the surburbans. There is a lot more leg room in the middle row and third row of seats. you do give up storage space. Overall I would rate this and recommend the suv to everyone.

• 

  great family suv - 2006 Infiniti QX56
  By hiplainsdrftr - July 29 - 10:04 am

  our 3rd infiniti, traded in qx4 which we had for 8 years. great design where 2nd row has bench seats for access to 3rd row. even w 3rd row up enough room for a stroller. handles n drives nicely average about 14 mpg in mixed driving. our friends just got a 2007 after seeing ours. we test drove lots of suvs before finding this. my wife loves it so far. owned for 9 months.

• 

  2 weeks in! - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By chris - July 26 - 11:40 pm

  I love this truck, but must always keep in mind that it is a truck. So dont compare to a car, a lot of reviewers do that. at speed, It needs some more refinement lots of noise like a window is open.

• 

  Youve seen the good news, now the bad - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By Texas Girl08 - July 9 - 3:23 pm

  I loved my Q4x4 the first year I had it, but it started falling about at about 25k miles. In for repairs for failing elec system... rear liftgate wont lift (at all), tells you liftgate is open when it is not, flashes and beeps warning for flat tire when there is none, dvd is very noisy and the screen is not fastened securely. After the first year it bounces noisily, heated seats went out, driver seat lumbar broke, rear third row seat broke, nav system went out... these are highlights! Will never buy Infiniti again and selling this.