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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Bill - 2005 Infiniti QX56
By Bill - November 21 - 12:36 pmThe QX56 has all the others beat by a mile! Runs great, looks great, holds 8 people comfortably, or hauls 4x8 shhets of plywood. You name it. Easy seat conversion too. I most like (and have never seen) the Qs ability have a person sit in the second row, and NOT have his knees touch the seat in front. The best, (and best value for the money) auto, Ive ever owned! Very satisfied!
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Best SUV For Your Money! - 2004 Infiniti QX56
By qx56owner - November 21 - 10:00 amIve owned the Lincoln Navigator, Ive driven many times the Escalade. My Infiniti is by far the best SUV Ive owned for under $50K. I love it!
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Still Cant Find What Im Looking For... - 2004 Infiniti QX56
By Mark Z. - November 10 - 11:36 amAfter a disappointing Escalade ownership experience, gave the Japanese Mfrs. a try. The QX56 won us over with their features, gizmos, and inventive seats. The test drive did not reveal some immediate issues we discovered on our fist trip: the truck rides hard, even on highway, had to reduce tire pressure to make it acceptable. The road disturbances excite the truck body which resonates the interior with an uncomfortable sound. (shoulda used thicker steel) The overhead console rattled (had replaced). The brakes replaced 3 times - never admitted that they undersized the rotors. Temp. controls are counter-intuitive. Seats are flat w/ little side & head support - Nissan Armadas are better!
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New Toy - 2004 Infiniti QX56
By LaurenceSchiff - October 14 - 10:00 amEarly review of this monster is mixed. It is probably a poor value, however, it is ultra-luxurious, powerful, and fun. Gas mileage is terrible, and if a car salesman tells you it gets 18MPG, I do have several local bridges to sell you. Too early to tell about reliability, but Infiniti really does pamper you, and they actually fix things with a smile. I know several reviewers panned the styling, but with upgraded wheels, the car is absolutely stunning.
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QX56 - 2004 Infiniti QX56
By Reno - October 14 - 10:00 amTwo days ago picked it up. Overall very nice truck. Ride is very comfortable and compliant. It can be little jittery on rough roads, but that is expected from any full size truck built on frame. Interior is very quiet. Seats are soft and comfortable. Rear leg room is amazing(like in limo). Overall I think this truck is great value.
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QX56 - 2006 Infiniti QX56
By David Hart - September 16 - 6:16 amso far the qx56 has held up to it promise it drives like a luxury car but has the power of a SUV another great feature is that the back seats are heated and enough room for a 6ft to seat very comfortable in the back seat not to mention all the air bags that come with the car even on the 3rd row. overall this rates 9.3 out of 10
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Best of the bigger suvs - 2005 Infiniti QX56
By Susan - September 4 - 2:50 amLove the room, and very comfortable; acceleration onto major roadways is surprisingly peppy for this size. Best for long hauls or mainly highway; around town; gas mileage stinks. Best GPS system Ive ever used.
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Replaced the GX470 - 2004 Infiniti QX56
By Harry Spooner - September 1 - 10:00 amI too had a GX470 which I enjoyed alot, but we needed something bigger. This defintely fits the bill. There is lots of room in the front and back. I was *very* impressed with the power and torque of the engine. I also like the ride. Firmer than the Lexus, even in their "sporty" mode. Since I purchased this vehicle, there have been lots of folks in our parking lot at work, checking it out... Eye Popping for sure. I am really looking forward to taking this on a long trip.
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QX-56 Fun - 2004 Infiniti QX56
By BC - August 28 - 5:26 amGreat quality. Unique vehicle that gets great looks on the street and around the block. Great to drive, and great features explained in the next segment.
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thumbs down - 2005 Infiniti QX56
By thumbs down - August 12 - 7:33 pmdoor handles break when cold Hard to use windows low mileage per gallon must get filled about every three days (cost about $45-$50 to fill(takes SUPER) can only see front hood very little (like a minivan) moon roof is very noisy tires do not retain air reverse camera distracts you from looking back when backing up and it does not show everything behind you takes long time before car heats up poor handleing However its navigation system is exceptional
