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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  Great car - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By Shant k - August 19 - 10:00 am

  This car really is a great car. It drives well with minimal cabin noise on the freeway. Aggressive looking body that I really like. 17.25 feet long really demands attention. All that size doenst go for nothing, inside it is as if your in a limo. More leg room then you would imagine. Even the third row is comfortable for us big guys (im 66). I used to have a GMC Denali and the legroom in the third row is just not the same. The Navigation system is very easy to use, even though I dont use it alot.

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  LOVE THIS TRUCK - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By OWENSSFC - August 19 - 10:00 am

  I HAD A GMC DINALI FOR 3 1/2 YRS BEFORE THIS. IT WAS JUNK! NEEDING A MOTOR AT 44000 MI WAS LAST STRAW. I WAS HAPPY TO SEE NISSAN PUT THIS TRUCK OUT THAT MET MY SIZE/TOWING NEEDS. I PREVIOUSLE HAD 2 PATHFINDERS WHEN I COULD NOT AFFORD NEW TRUCKS AND PUT OVER 200K ON EACH. I HAVE HADE THIS TRUCK ONLY 1 MO BUT HAVE BEEN ON 1600MI BEACH TRIP AND TO THE LAKE. I TOWED MY 6500 LB BOAT WITH NO PROBLEM AT ALL. I ALSO TOWED MY 8000LB CAMPER THE 5 MILES FROM STORAGE THE TRUCK DID FINE AND WAS AS GOOD AT TOWING AS MY GMC WAS. WHILE I HAVE ONLY HAD THIS TRUCK A SHORT TIME I CAN ALREADY TELL THE BUILD IS MUCH BETTER THAN THE GMC.

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  No Regrets - 2006 Infiniti QX56
  By NCLUDE - August 10 - 11:23 am

  I was looking for a nice, comfortable car (Lexus ES350 or Infiniti G35) and ended up getting the QX56 for its great ride and ability to hold our family of 6. Compared to others in its class, the QX56 is the overall champion IMHO. Great ride, looks tough, lots of standard equipment and the price is great compared to others (Escalade and Navigator). I considered the 2007 Escalade but by the time you added on the option it topped 62k. You get much more vehicle for the money with the QX56 and also, not everyone else has one. For those trying to decide among full-size luxury SUVs, I dont think theres a better deal out there. In the end, you just have to drive one, then youll have no doubt.

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  A Joy to Drive - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By edward klee - August 3 - 4:03 am

  I had problems with the brakes but they we repared by a factory call back free of charge; this was after about 6,000 miles. I have taken three long round trips 1,600 or more; and it was a pleasure to drive. I averaged close to 16 miles on the trips. City mileage is about 14.3 miles to the gallon.

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  happy qx56 owner - 2007 Infiniti QX56
  By scott - July 25 - 2:56 am

  This is a great vehicle. we drove the new denali and it rode great but the interior features of this vehicle blow the denali away. we have been extremely pleased so far!

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  Superb Vehicle - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By MaineGuy - July 7 - 10:00 am

  Did extensive research. Test drove(literally)all of the competition. None compared to this outstanding ride. My wife gave her approval(this is the most significant test that any vehicle must pass!!). Stable, smooth, powerful. The sales staff at Austin Infiniti was by far the best Ive ever dealt with. This SUV has it all. Leg and head room (Im 6 6") are the best. Comfort is second to none. The stereo is crisp, clear and top of the line(the review that claims its "a letdown" is way off base). This is a 5,600 lb. vehicle. Do you really think that it would get 25 mpg? Were getting almost 16mpg. Thats outstanding! Looking forward to the M Class for my wife!!

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  Great Truck - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By JGP - June 19 - 7:06 am

  I purchased an 04 Infiniti QX56 with about 60K miles on it. After driving it for about 25K miles, I am still very pleased with the truck. I was initially concerned about the brakes after reading some of the early reviews, but that hasnt been an issue for me. Ive havent had a single mechanical problem. I would gladly purchase again.

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  INFINITI HITS A HOME RUN - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By VINNIE D - June 17 - 3:13 pm

  When I first saw the QX56, I had a 1 year old Tahoe Z71 which I couldnt wait to get rid of. The Chevy was a headache from day 1. The Chevy needed repairs so many times, the service manager & I became best friends. Finally dumped the lousy Chevy for a QX56. Couldnt be happier! $45K for the Chevy. $48K fully loaded for the QX56 and the difference in the Infititis quality, fit & finish is LIGHT YEARS ahead of the Chevy. Best was the QX has more power, towing, options & feels like a truck that will last. The QX56 has it all & puts away the competition for the price. I checked the Escalade & was $15K more than the QX56 with the same options. Escalade is a dressed up (YUK)Tahoe! QX56 ROCKS!!

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  Infiniti hits a home run - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By VINNIE D - June 17 - 3:13 pm

  When I first saw the QX56, I had a 1 year old Tahoe Z71 which I couldnt wait to get rid of. The Chevy was a headache from day 1. The Chevy needed repairs so many times, the service manager & I became best friends. Finally dumped the lousy Chevy for a QX56. Couldnt be happier! $45K for the Chevy. $48K fully loaded for the QX56 and the difference in the Infititis quality, fit & finish is LIGHT YEARS ahead of the Chevy. Best was the QX has more power, towing, options & feels like a truck that will last. The QX56 has it all & puts away the competition for the price. I checked the Escalade & was $15K more than the QX56 with the same options. Escalade is a dressed up (YUK)Tahoe! QX56 ROCKS!!

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  Absolute Premium Vehicle - 2010 Infiniti QX56
  By jomeadows - June 6 - 11:10 am

  Have had this vehicle for two weeks. Have been driving Escalades. This is a far superior vehicle in fit and finish, ride, quality electronics and stereo. The ride on the road is the best I have ever experienced. this truck is so good "on road" that I doubt it is what "off roaders" seek, but I love it.