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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  Traded from 2004 to 2006 - 2006 Infiniti QX56
  By Allen Pearl - August 11 - 8:23 pm

  Traded from 2004, which we had no problem with, to the new 2006. Infiniti made ua an offer we could not refuse. We enjoyed our 2004, even though some people had problems. We, truthfully, never had a bit of trouble with our car. The new Q is 4 wheel drive, and has many added features we did not have in the 2006. Most important to my family is our safety, and we feel safe with this car. Reliability is in the head of the owner. We never had problems with the car, and found it to be very reliable. We are willing to sacrifice fuel for safety, and comfort, and this is why we own the new QX56. Truly a great allaround vehicle, for us. Allen Pearl

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  Great SUV - 2006 Infiniti QX56
  By Gary Mann - August 10 - 2:53 am

  I just leased 05 QX56 AWD last week. I love this SUV and all the features on it. I paid $50,300 for full loaded and money factor on my lease was .00136 for 39 months.

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  love my truck - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By twincafe - July 15 - 10:00 am

  Q56 drives like a car not a truck

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  Awesome vehicle...BUT! - 2011 Infiniti QX56
  By billm10 - July 10 - 4:55 pm

  Great vehicle to drive...BUT, there is an extremely loud fan noise that degrades power (like on a hwy on ramp). My daughter said, Dad, is that us!!??. When I first heard it, I looked around to see where the looming semi truck was. Sounds like Garbarge truck with that high-rev sounding engine.You will not find this on a test drive and Infiniti says it is the hydraulic fan and that it is normal. Believe me when I say it is loud, obnoxious, embarassing,and loses power. I have not had it happen since wintertemps, but in warmer september month and always after a highway run, then in slow traffic is when it kicks in...After you get up to speed it goes away. Sorry to saywould return it if i could

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  Unreliable - 2006 Infiniti QX56
  By Katie - May 24 - 9:36 pm

  I am very unhappy with this car. First the brakes are recalled and then the hatchback broke on the day we needed to pack for camping. The electrical goes out randomly. The car thinks the emergency brake is on when it isnt and it then skids when I come to a stop. I feel very unsafe driving it. I do love how big it is. I do love the DVD for the kids. I love the automatic lift for the hatchback. The navigation screen is totally useless. I love the back up camera. I will not be able to buy another car without it. We are breaking our lease early to get rid of this car.

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  A very nice safe driving vechicle - 2006 Infiniti QX56
  By Allen Pearl - May 4 - 1:26 am

  My wife and I bought a 2004 QX56, s wheel drive 18 months ago. We have enjoyed the car, and the service offered to us. Unlike some owners of that year and model, we have had no trouble with the brakes, or the car. We were invited to look at the 2006, and because we were loyal owners of the 2004 QX56, and several other Infiniti products over the years, we were made a deal that we could not refuse. We feel safe in the car, and we feel that we owe this safety to our family. Fuel, the way it is, was a factor, but you cannot put a price on your life. It was a pleasure to deal with Schumacher again, even though our old standby salesman has left the deaalership. They treated us like kings.

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  Better SUV - 2006 Infiniti QX56
  By Kelley - May 1 - 3:56 pm

  My wife and I were about to purchase the Mercedes GL450 when she stopped in to drive the QX56. The truck is a great mix between comfort and braun. It sounds like a truck, rides like a car, and hauls everything. It also has all of the bells and whistles of the 21st century. Bluetooth, Navi, great seats, large buttons, and a jammin stereo! The style was a little different, but once you drive it you see the truck in a whole different light!

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  Northwest QX-er - 2006 Infiniti QX56
  By HDSCREAGLE - April 30 - 6:26 am

  We drive in the Pacific Northwest and this BIG Urban Assault Vehicle definitely comes in handy in our fickle weather. It also provides a high degree of safety on our busy freeways. This is my wifes vehicle and she loves it. You ride HIGH and safe, comfy in the leather surroundings. Controls are very intuitive and easy to use. We enjoy the automatic rear hatch, the back-up TV, nav system and the stereo is high-end too.

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  Qx 56 - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By Avishal - April 25 - 6:20 pm

  Its a great car. Worth every penny.

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  Has all of the bells and whistles! - 2008 Infiniti QX56
  By Sally - April 15 - 8:43 am

  I got the new 08 QX56 as soon as it came out, I have about 500 miles on the car, I was waiting b/c improvements are so great over the 07. I traded in an Odyssey van. While the QX is true luxury, I have to say the Odyssey handles more smoothly on the road. I love the interior of the QX as well as all of the bells/whistles re: technology. Ive only figured out about 60% of the features. In addition to the roughness on the road, I was also surprised by the engine noise/vibration under drivers seat while accelerating; I suppose thats due to the huge engine size.