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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  Best for the $$$$ - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By Julie - April 19 - 9:20 am

  After shopping All SUVs this was the on for me. I have owned the Mercedes ML, and the Lincoln Navigator, for interior plushness and utility this QX56 is far superior. The easy tumble mid seats and the fold flat rear third row is better than the Escalade. You can remove the mid-seat console for even more ease to the third row.

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  Nice vehicle, BUT - 2011 Infiniti QX56
  By flyingtiger1 - April 17 - 2:06 pm

  Car has an unbelievable amount of wind noise coming from roof area at highway speeds. Complained to dealership and they stated that this was average for an Infiniti product. If this is average, I will never by another. Also, vehicle has developed a surge when at a stop. Was told that a recall was coming on the transmission. Brought the car in to be looked at, no code on computer so Infiniti will not replace the transmission. Nice design, but Infiniti needs to work on quality if they want to be in the luxury car market and compete with the BMW and the rest of the big boys.

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  New QX - 2011 Infiniti QX56
  By Tim - April 1 - 2:46 pm

  Ive owned Yukons, Denali XLs, Escalades but this is the best SUV Ive ever owned by far. Wow!

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  Wonderful Vehicle - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By LovetheBeast - April 1 - 10:00 am

  I have only had the QX56 a week, but it is without a doubt the most complete vehicle I have ever owned. I drove all the competitiors (Escalade, Navigator, SRX) and it puts them to shame. Love the power and the ride. I thought my Sequoia drove and road pretty good, but this vehicle is so much better. It "drives" a lot smaller than it is.

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  Waiting to Exhale... - 2006 Infiniti QX56
  By Emma - March 22 - 5:20 am

  Ive been looking for a luxury SUV for quite some time. I didnt want to be like the rest. I saw an ad for the QX56. I immediately had to go see it! I called my husband and we went to go test drive the suv. It didnt even ride like an suv. Comming out from a Tahoe to a QX56 was a HUGE change. This drives like a lux car. I know well look to buy a small car to add to our addition for my husband. Were in love with the Infinities! All of them. All the safty features are there. We have 2 kids and I feel very secure with the added security. Our kids will have Infinities to drive off to college (station wagon). I can finally exhale.

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  Id drive 1000 miles to get the QX - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By oscar1 - March 21 - 10:00 am

  Bought the Jade QX56 in CA. Took delivery in Reno. Had a great dive to Missoula. Getting to know this car is like setting up a new computer. people comment that the interior looks like an airplane interior. Yhe designers mieed the boat for little spots to put coins, etc. 1st tank was 15mpg. I then put it in D instead of 4 and got 16 1/2. From {daho Falls to Missoula via Sun Valley I got 18.42 mpg. Speed varied between 65-80. Quiet ride, very comfortable on long trips. I immediately had a 3m clear bra put on it. Also covered the headlights. This vehicle sure seems to be a good choice.

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  JUST SUPERB...best lrge luxury SUV! - 2011 Infiniti QX56
  By speedster12 - March 6 - 10:35 pm

  First time owning an infiniti. I tried all the large luxury SUVs (with over a day of driving each prior to my decision). I can honestly say the QX is THE BEST out there, and for the money- its an incredible deal. -Not top heavy like the lexus -Not like driving an unresponsive, boat-like piece of fluff like the escalade/ yukon/ suburban. -Much cheaper than the lrge comparable mercedes SUV and even nicer/sleeker interior -I was nervous- going from a sporty bimmer to this yet, I have never looked back!! If your in the market for a lrge luxury SUV with incredible style, yet one that has enough brawn to pull your boat, or horse trailer or whatever- LOOK NO FURTHER.

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  Infiniti QX56--- absolutely awesome! - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By deanomeano - February 17 - 2:00 am

  Was looking at BMW X5, Hummer, Escalade, and Q56. After driving other 3, I went to Infiniti dealership. Looks of this vehicle on the web cannot compare with the awesome looks of it in real life. Phenomenal luxury with brute good looks. My wife was overwhelmed with the features, looks and performance. Obviously, its new, so well have to see how it holds up. Its an Infiniti, so were expecting a lot in reliability. Makes Escalade look sick in comparison.

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  Lemon - 2006 Infiniti QX56
  By Lemon - February 6 - 9:13 am

  After reading all the other reviews im starting to belive that i was just sold a lemon. My drivers seat is comfortable although the other 6 are not. In the Winter i cannot get into the car because my handles become frozen shut (From Long Island - not cold temps). This Suv is absolutely top 5 for fuel guzzlers. Also, the wood pieces fall out of the doors when you close it. Like most other SUVs when opening the windows its like taking off in a plane (these windows are by far the worst at of all the suvs in its class).

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  What a wonderful Truck - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By Pumpkin PH - January 26 - 8:53 am

  Most of the time, the QX56 has felt very smooth on the road and has been extremely comfortable on long hauls to Mammoth. Comfort is great, but still a body on frame truck. Roomy all around. Great 2nd row - limo- like room. Same height and width, but the extra 8" length over the Yukon are surprisingly noticeable. The kids love it room for them, friends, and groceries. Tows like a champ, very comfortable on long trips. The 4wd system is great. No problems in 4 feet of snow or in light off-roading. Having a 4x4 lo range also sold us on this beast. After one year and 20k miles we are very happy. Currently 95k and counting.