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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  Why did I go with something new - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By Steve Goldberg - June 20 - 8:43 am

  I got suckered into buying what I thought was a new luxury Japansese truck. I liked the exterior and the interior was not that bad to me coming from a Denali. This car shakes, rattles, rolls and I cannot believe it is no better built than my old GMC Denali. I do like the fact its very big and fast, what a nice engine. But Ive been to the dealer 8 times for various quality issues in less than 6 months.

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  Great Truck - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By Haylo - June 14 - 10:00 am

  This truck has a lot of extra features for the value of money. We looked at all SUVs and this truck offered everything and more and stayed in a plesant budget.

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  Amazing SUV! - 2008 Infiniti QX56
  By Extremely Happy! - June 11 - 6:16 pm

  I compared every SUV out there with a third row and this one gives you the most luxuries/technology for your dollar. We also looked at the Mercedes GL, Escalade ESV, Lexus LX 570 and the Navigator. This car has the whole package! If you want a vehicle with a third row that you use a lot this car is the best of what is out there. If a third row is not important it still is the best of what is out there.

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  a mans vehicle - 2006 Infiniti QX56
  By patt - June 2 - 7:13 am

  it drives like its the king of the road,i get a lot of head turning, i just love the big manly looking front end,or should i say grille. looks like a mean old firetruck.

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  Best SUV for the $$$$ - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By r8rfan - May 29 - 6:20 am

  This is a luxury cruiseliner on wheels. I have 77K on this car in 3 years because we would rather drive in this machine. The only problem we had was they did not make the brakes powerful enough when they first produced it, but Infiniti stepped up in a big way and not only replaced the brakes, but also paid for all of my factory services for the first 30K miles in a gesture of goodwill. They literally sent me a check for over $500. Gotta love a company that stands behind their product. The kids love this thing and we have taken 2-3 hour trips with this thing with 7 adults and no complaints of discomfort. This vehicle is the ultimate in comfort.

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  The Best Large SUV - 2008 Infiniti QX56
  By Happy QX56 Owner - May 26 - 3:13 am

  This is my second QX56, the first being a 2005. I can not say enough on how great this vehicle is. Neither of my trucks has ever had a issue. The dealership provides free oil changes ever 3,500 and is a pleasure to deal with. The QX56 has just about everything a large, luxury SUV should have. So quiet, so powerful, yet nimble given its size.

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  best SUV for the money - 2007 Infiniti QX56
  By arcangelo - May 5 - 12:56 pm

  A lot of thought went into this SUV. Its luxury and usability all in one. Drives like a car.. smooth and quiet.

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  Fun to drive - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By Harry - April 30 - 4:40 am

  We now have 6500 miles on this vehicle, although we have to stop more often for gas, I wouldnt trade this vehicle for any that I have purchased in the past. Since 1969 I have purchased at least 28 new vehicles, not including motorcycles and some trucks. Fun to drive, very quiet, excellent radio. Dont like where the clock is, but who cares about the time when you are driving this unit.

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  Good Value - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By DUBAI - April 29 - 11:03 pm

  Great car to have. I have switched from FX45 to the Q56. The only set back is the Quality of the material used in the interior!! i wish if it was like the lexus! Performance is great!!! i cant wait fo the after market parts!! 0-60 is faster that the Range Rover and the X5 4.4!!! I would recommend this car for every one!!

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  Very Nice - 2008 Infiniti QX56
  By Family Man - April 29 - 5:03 am

  I have now been driving this Truck for a 2 weeks. I did a small road trip around 400 mile. This truck has a very smooth ride. I would compare to more of a sedan ride. The technology is very user friendly. The cabin is loaded with comfort. The 3rd row is great for little kids which I have. The Dvd is nice and the back cabin heater/ac. The captain chairs in the 2nd row are very nice along with the push button seats. The drivers control area is well thought out. The only real problem with the Truck is the fuel economy. I am getting 11 mpg in city and 16 mgp highway. One has to be able to afford the gas. If you are driving more than 1000 miles a month I would not buy this truck.