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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  new experience - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By j&b - June 1 - 10:00 am

  I was used to drive an X-5 (V-8, 4.4). The QX is a truck but is safe, has very nice interiors and is spaceous. Now if it only be a little more sporty (what I mean is horse power and acceleration) it would it be the best out there

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  Rattle Box with Bad Brakes! - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By Chris - May 31 - 5:30 pm

  This car has been a real disappointment. We love the look of the car and the overall comfort of the interior. BUT, We have had it in for service 4 times now, they charge us almost $600 each time for service, and with 20,000 miles they have had to fix the brakes 3 times, the dealer has even admitted that there is a brake problem with these cars and they do not know how to fix it except to keep replacing them every 5000 miles or so. The interior console that houses the fold up tv screen rattles like crazy, the automatic opening backdoor has had to been fixed twice. After having this car for 1.5 years I have had enough. I dont feel safe with these brakes and a 13 month child. Dont buy it

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  Just Sold - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By HappyNow - May 23 - 11:06 pm

  I was greatly disappointed with my QX56. The car rattled the entire time I had it, 10 months. The overhead console had to be replaced. There were rattling issues with the front end.... I sold this SUV at a loss, but I was happy to get rid of it. I wish i had read these reviews before i bought this suv. To think i traded my lexus lx470, i wanted more room, for this big rattler.

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  Infiniti does it again - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By Donna - May 3 - 5:03 pm

  Overall, I love this vehicle but it has had a problem with the brakes. Had to be replaced after 12000 miles. It was still under warranty so not a major deal. Would recommend the backup camera and DVD, love both. Would not recommend tan interior as it looks great, but not practical with kids as it gets dirty very fast.

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  Watch out for Mice! - 2007 Infiniti QX56
  By Don G. - April 24 - 8:00 pm

  Leased QX56 in June 07. Had Continental Tires on it and ride was noisey and rough. All the doors rattled and windows did the same. All the door hinges & strikers misaligned and had to be realigned. Gas mileage 11 in city 17 on highway, but expected. Interior exceptional but Nav is awful. Two voices and one you cant hardly understand. This is a 39 month lease with 45,000 mi.Recently just after starting vehicle the 4WD, SLIP, VDC, and ABS idiot lights came on! Took vehicle to dealer and their findings indicated that the sensor had an open circuit, they found wiring Harness damage to the L/F sensor. They claim wires were eaten by a mouse? Wire covered with a plastic cable? Want $300+ to fix!

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  I Love My Car - 2006 Infiniti QX56
  By Yolanda - April 21 - 11:56 am

  So far it has been great! This is my first Infiniti QX56, previous 2 SUVs were Lincoln Navigator and Ford Expedition. Have also driven an Escalade much. Not the get up and go power of the Escalade but a close second. More comfortable than the Escalade or my previous SUVs. Great construction--sturdy, Navigator moldings didnt hold up well to my 3 girls and their numerous friends pilled into "moms taxi." Did have an immediate gear shift problem within hours of receiving the new car, fixed within 24 hours at the dealer. Gear was slipping out of drive and brakes locking up until motor turned off (not good in traffic)--no problems since first day. Love the look, size, engine power.

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  Its a beast - 2008 Infiniti QX56
  By John Cincy - March 23 - 5:00 pm

  Just bought this beast a couple weeks ago and love it. My wife carts the kids around in it mostly but I have had some fun in it too. Very easy to drive and tons more room than the Escalade ESV. Gonna cost me a ton in gas - wish they had the Flex Fuel option. From last year, they added a heated steering wheel, automatic fold down third row (folds flat), 10 GB hard drive, compact flash drive, aux jack for iPods, MP3 players, etc., and bigger 20" wheels.

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  Best of the Large SUVs - 2011 Infiniti QX56
  By Mert - February 11 - 12:30 pm

  Excellent ride, power, performance. Traded 07 QX56 which was hard to give up, but what an improvement in ride and overall quality, fit and finish.

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  The best of my four SUVS - 2006 Infiniti QX56
  By George - February 6 - 11:00 pm

  Great SUV and fun to drive, very luxurious with a lot of features. The best of the four SUVs that I currently own. (Sequioa LTD, 4runner LTD and a 4runner sport)

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  "Big" But Outstanding SUV - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By Bear - February 5 - 1:06 am

  Overall Im very satisfied with the big Inifiti SUV. Edmunds is right about this beast being thirsty but I knew this when I bought it. Very good build quality. Very nice interior.