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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  Move Over Domestics - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By Rockyhilljamoke - July 8 - 2:00 am

  I think that the "Big Three" should be worried. This is one "Big" but fun SUV. It is not only beautiful on the inside but also attrative on the outside. Caddy may be nice on the outside but its still "trucky" on the inside. Navigator better look in its rear view miror...something is about to over take it. Its called the Infinity QX56.

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  The Only SUV You Need - 2008 Infiniti QX56
  By murphdog - June 30 - 10:40 am

  I just traded an 04 for an 08. You cant believe how different the two are. The 08 has been elegantly refreshed with wood, heated steering, Bluetooth, Power rear seats, etc etc. I didnt believe they could improve on the 04, which I thought was a great truck..but they did. The ride is far superior to the 04. The nav, DVD, XM, 20" wheels are all tremendous improvements. We have driven them all... Escalade, Denali, Range Rover, Navigator - nothing holds a candle to this car.

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  Awesome - 2007 Infiniti QX56
  By LastOneUp - June 24 - 10:36 am

  This is a fantastic SUV. The ride is very smooth for such a large car and the power is incredible. The interior of the car is plush, big leather seats, entertainment system, GPS, awesome gauge layout, everything you could want. By far the best car I have ever owned. If you want luxury, size, power, and looks this is the car.

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  Still going strong! - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By rbarea - June 19 - 2:50 pm

  After 30 months of hard South Florida driving, my QX56 is still going strong! Im averaging 15 mpg per fill-up with premium fuel. Ive had no mechanical problems and the vehicles handling and brakes have allowed me to avoid several potential accidents. For the money, I cant believe that this SUV doesnt rank higher on everyones list. Most people have not been inside a QX56 nor have they driven one but every time someone new gets inside my vehicle, its all compliments. For those who are shopping SUVs, reward yourself and check out the value of the QX56.

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  Problems with QX56 - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By Jim Heine - May 20 - 5:56 pm

  The road performance is fine. The shortfall lies in the dash- poor heating and defroster times, too complicated to find proper settings for climate controls. Have had several minor breakdowns with basic functions ie windshield wipers,mirror motors. Probably would not buy again- Im a 3X infinity buyer.

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  Excellent SUV, BUT... - 2008 Infiniti QX56
  By H in Houston - April 30 - 4:40 pm

  We just got our new QX. We really liked what we tested drove and ordered one. We are pleased with the car overall. If you want a BIG SUV, this is it. We had a Navigator before. It started falling apart at 48k miles. We looked at and/or drove the Escalade, Yukon Denali, GL 450 and LX 470. For the price and features, you cant beat the QX. What other SUV includes as standard equipment a moonroof, Bluetooth, power fold flat seats, 20 inch chrome wheels, a navigation system, HID lights, a harddrive for music that rips CDs, a rear camera and rear sonar. While others may not care for the looks, I think it has one of the nicest interiors.

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  I love this SUV! - 2011 Infiniti QX56
  By nickz - April 16 - 2:00 am

  Dollar for dollar, the best value out there for performance, luxury and fun factor. Coming from 2008 Escalade. Drives like a sports car with feel of an SUV. Its far more easy to navigate around town, provides a better ride, has more passing power,and looks better in and out. Test drove the new MB GL and the Lexus LX. The third row seat in both of them were far smaller, and didnt handle as good. The GL did have a nicer center row, but was inferior elsewhere. Very Pleased overall. I like that it doesnt look like every SUV on the road; its distinctive styling makes stand out.

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  Shake, Rattle and Rattle - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By Larry Foles - April 10 - 5:23 am

  This car has a great drive train but rides rough, rattles and the wheels vibrate like crazy. The dealership says it was design so tight that you will feel more of the road. If the road is not a good road then you will feel it in the steering wheel. Im trying to get them to satisfy me but not getting anywhere. This car needs work.

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  TOP SUV - 2008 Infiniti QX56
  By Jasonthebomb - April 5 - 1:56 pm

  I have just purchased this monster about a month and meets all my satisfaction. I traded in my 04 4Runner and got this beast and I am loving it. It has it all, power, fun, and look impressive. When I drive the road, people just keep looking at my car and asking how much I paid and so on on when it is parked. It is one hell of big impressive SUV and washing my car every weekend YAY! \(^.^)/

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  Problems with this truck - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By SJ - March 30 - 8:50 pm

  The rotors were warped (thin, no good for vehicle wt.) - 3 dealer trips before they replaced it ("manuf. defect") in all - y not issue recall? The steering never returns 2 position, the flaps on the back of 2nd row wont stay anymore (Velcro wore out after 12 mo.), cumbersome mech. 2 fold 2nd row- doesnt always work, lukewarm not heated front seats, very poor quality build, rear door auto lift problem, 2 tires wore out at 24K(cheap), space behind 3rd seat not useful like Expedition., oil change at non-dealer and screen reminder never goes away - tire pressure gauge and hand break fault - dealer had 2 fix - manuf. defect - one tire leaked air from valve, made in Japan, not true luxury vehicle.