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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  Excellent!!!! - 2006 Infiniti QX56
  By Steve - March 31 - 11:23 pm

  By far the best in its class. I have had my QX for 6 weeks and am so happy with my decision. I was in a car accident and wasnt even hurt. One of the other cars in the accident was totaled. I did not even have whiplash. Extremely safe...great if you have kids or you like to look cool. Get the sunroof. Navigation is simple. Stock radio is amazing. Could use a better A/C system. Heated seats are not that hot.

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  infiniti QX56 - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By ramamurti - March 31 - 10:00 am

  It is a good SUV.

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  QX-56 First Impressions - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By SGOU - March 31 - 10:00 am

  Ive got to say that Im impressed with the TRUCK so far. Compared to our 1988 Toyota Land Cruise and our 1999 Ford Expedition-which we still own, the QX-56 is leaps and bounds ahead in terms of sophistication, quality, power, and comfort. That being said, the QX-56 is still a truck albeit a very refined, heavy and powerful one. This car will be my wifes daily driver which she will use to haul our kids around to their activities and our weekly drives to Tahoe once the snow starts falling.

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  Nissan or GM after 100k ! - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By sreethog11 - March 12 - 5:40 am

  just hit 100k tires breaks spark plugs and gearing towards another 50k at least so far so good just hit 110 looks and drives likes the day it rolled out the quality and craftsmanship cant be repeated i just cant part with it for another that will dissapoint tahoe too small cadi same thing dont be afraid of 100k with a good maintenance schedule my uncle has 168k and no problems and he lives in the smoky mountains!I bet the tahoe would have died by now dont you?

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  The real deal - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By lillee - March 10 - 4:03 pm

  This is one of the best SUVs I have ever owned and I have had them all. The way it handles on the road is smooth. It is especially roomy on the second row. This is great when traveling with the kids. I was disappointed that the navigation system was not design with the forethought a passenger input. Moreover, the knobs are not user friendly for the temperature. Lastly, the side mirrors should have been power retracable as well as tilted when backing up. The should really improve on the navigation system. As well as power folding third row seat. Overall, it is an excellent and fun vehicle to drive. The kids love it

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  Should be SUV of the year - 2008 Infiniti QX56
  By Julie - February 26 - 8:46 am

  I love my QX!! We made deal on 2007 then they got their first 2008 in, one look and I had to have it! changes are incredible and the 2008 QX should be SUV of the year. Beautiful inside, beautiful out...we love all the chrome! Luxury top notch. Love the bluetooth capability, the power 3rd row seats, intellicruise, music box is awesome. I buy all my songs on itunes and then load them in, we love that feature! Leather is beautiful, controls are perfectly placed and the power of this baby is hard to beat. First time I stepped on the gas, it gave new meaning to stepping on it. I feel safe with my children in this SUV and we couldnt be happier to be driving this SUV. It deserves more credit!

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  stranded again - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By diane - February 19 - 6:03 am

  My car is stuck in park again. First time, service mgr said it was a bad shifter. 2nd time my cell phone charger was blamed for blowing the fuse leaving me stranded in a parking lot at night. This is the third time Ive been stranded. My cell phone charger was not even in the car. It is beginning to rattle too. I wish Id never traded my Lexus.

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  Best vehicle purchase ever - 2008 Infiniti QX56
  By Dan - February 16 - 2:36 am

  This is the 4th SUV we have owned and by far the finest. We loked at every large SUV available up to the $83K Lexus 570. And the value proposition of the QX56 was the best of class. Fit and finish is exceptional. It is a fun vehicle whose style is really coming into its own. Many think it was years ahead of its time when it was first introduced, but with the upgrades and minor front and rear fascia changes for 2008, is now just plain beautiful.

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  I would never buy Infiniti again! - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By Cronan - February 4 - 7:00 pm

  Coming from reliable Toyota vehicles I never thought that buying a new luxury vehicle would be such a let down. I have had over 20 issues with my QX56! From small trim pieces falling off to the brake rotors being replaced twice, the ABS system failing, transmission lines being replaced. I just picked it up yesterday for the transmission issue & today it is still gushing fluid. I am unable to park in the garage because of it. This is the worst vehicle I have owned ever! Please reconsider your Infiniti purchases...Buyer Beware!

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  IT CAN BE BETTER - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By REEM - January 15 - 2:13 am

  Interior noise coming from the plastic on the doors, seats comfort can be better , so they need to clean the interior plastic ,and get more comfort seat.