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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  Good used luxury SUV - 2006 Infiniti QX56
  By pnad - January 18 - 11:32 am

  I wanted big and comfortable. Shopped Lexus, Cadillac and Lincoln. The QX56 was cheaper than the Escalade, bigger than the GX470 and more reliable than the Navigator. It is a little odd looking from the outside, but looks great from the drivers seat. And oh what a drivers seat it is... Its like wearing new shoes WITH new socks. So comfortable. Passengers LOVE the second row seats. The 3rd row, like most, is better suited to smaller kids but I could sit back there for a 30 minute ride. Bose stereo sounds awesome. AUX input is strangely missing, but you can connect a phone/ipod whatever to the DVD input. Mileage isnt great, but it is the same for most of these trucks. Read up about brake issues on these trucks. Same for Nissan Titan and Armada. Warped rotors are not a big deal to me. $56ea at the local part store, I dont care if I need to replace them once a year. The other brake issue is the delta stroke sensor. You will want to google that. A sensor goes bad in the brake booster causing the antilock brakes to kick on. Feels like you are trying to stop on ice. I knew it was a possibility so I wasnt freaked out when it happened to me. Truck still stopped pretty good, just had that grindy/vibrating pedal feel. You can clear the fault by simply restarting the vehicle. If it happens a few more times I will look into replacing the brake booster ($180)

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  2010 qx 56 - 2010 Infiniti QX56
  By roman krol - January 16 - 6:30 am

  Replaced 2006 QX56 with 2010. Love the improvement in electronics. To us it is perfect in terms of size - MB, BMW and Audi were smaller; we often sit 5-7 people plus all the stuff for the trips in addition to getting kids to the games w all their gear. Luxury/ride is the same as with MB w extra space and w/o extra $$$ for all options. Only downside - No diesel. Overall - excellent buy and no complaints.

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  To many rattles - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By viking 100 - January 12 - 8:13 pm

  This suv has an overhead console that does nothing but rattle. The noise is so intense that I can not enjoy the true fun of driving this vehicle. In addition the drivers seat offers very little support,it seems to cavein rather than support.Since I took ownership I have had to have the rotors cut on three different occasions. In short, as for quality, this vehicle leaves a lot to be desired.

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  I dont miss the BMW! - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By yangj - January 12 - 10:00 am

  We were on our way to see an used LX and decided to stop by this inf. dealer just to take a quick look at the new QX since we are far away from the dealer and hadnt got a chance to see it. The next thing we know, our year- long search for a SUV ended there two hours later; we left the dealer with a piece of signed paper in hands. We have owned it for three months now and had a 1200 miles trip with six peopke inside (nobody complained). Many good things have been said already, not need to repeat. Just want to say that before this QX we had a van, me and my husband often faught for our other car, a BMW; but now any of us will be happy to take the truck. :)

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  Love my car - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By Moses - January 9 - 8:00 pm

  I had not planed to buy a new car this year, but with a little free time on my hands, I began to compare SUVs. I drove them all, every one. I was so impressed with the Infinity Q56 and the soft sell of the representative the cleanliness and order of the dealer. Before I knew it I had made a purchase , and I have not been displeased

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  Awesome SUV - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By 2004 QX 56 - January 4 - 12:06 am

  My wife purchased new after test driving escalade,denali,LX470 and Navigator. We did have brake problems at 15K but dealer replaced all rotors and pads and extended warranty from that time. This is an all around great SUV with every feature but most of all very comfortable and lots of space. Lots of power and for a 7600lb truck 16MPG is good, we now have 80K and were going to trade but it runs so good the wife wont let it go. I cant wait to see new model and we would trade for another.

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  Top of the line luxury SUV - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By infinitirocks - December 1 - 10:13 am

  This car is pretty amazing, nice interior, navigation, rearview camara, parking sensors, dvd entertainment system. The second row of seats actually heat up. I like that the passenger seats incline all the way compared to my last car( fx 35) I decided to change becuase Im used to big cars. The only thing that I dont like is the fuel consumption. 80 dollars to fill tank up. Other than that I love it.

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  Great Vehicle - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By QX56 - November 19 - 10:23 pm

  It is a very nice ride with many luxury features that are standard. Gas mileage could be better, but for the size and engine power, it is overall a great deal. Learning to park a car this size is a bit intimidating at first, but it is far easier than something as big as a Suburban.

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  Best full size - 2008 Infiniti QX56
  By Mike - November 15 - 2:00 am

  Love it. Has everything, sound system, bluetooth (connects and disconnects when needed, tried other manufacturers systems, not happy), voice control, best rear view camera that displays image in milliseconds and has lines and noise alarm, anyone can park safely. Also great when rearing with a boat trailer. Engine has so much trust. Cannot drive without intelligent cruise control anymore. Luxurious, comfortable and roomy. It is like flying first class.

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  Infiniti Consumer Affairs? - 2011 Infiniti QX56
  By bummed - November 9 - 10:00 am

  With 1500 miles, airbag sensors needed to be replaced in passenger seat. Horn honks at random times. Called Infiniti Consumer Affairs and have been put through the ringer! Obviously an electrical glitch somewhere, vehicle has been in the shop for 2 weeks! Very disappointed with Infinitis support on a $65,000 vehicle! Buyer Beware!