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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  Fun Ride - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By Mrs. M - October 30 - 8:03 pm

  My husband purchased the QX56 as a surprise Christmas present for me. I was also interested in the Lexus GX and the Volvo XC90. After getting a glimpse of the masculine yet alluring body style, I climbed inside and instantly fell in love. The crisp, clean lines of the leather interior speak to understated elegance. The bells and whistles on the Q cannot be overlooked, either. The power lift gate, adjustable pedals and memory seat/mirrors make errands a pleasure. And the 315 horsepower doesnt hurt, either! The storage capacity is amazing. Our family never understood the concept of "traveling light", and the Q just seems to gobble all our gear and ask for more. And its a headturner!

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  QX56 - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By Infinitiqx56 - October 20 - 12:23 pm

  I went from a 02 Escalade to this. I like 80% of the style and features of the Qx56 better. There are a few little things I do miss like the doors do not lock automatic when you shift into gear. Also I am a big fan of the heated seats and the Qx56 do not get hot enough. I miss the power folding mirrors for parking in tight spots. Over all I like the Qx56 better though. The power lift gate is very cool. Also the third row seat is way better and it folds flat. If any one is in the market for a luxury suv then I would recommend this one for sure. One other note the 4 year 60k mile warrany were also a deciding factor for me. Hope this helps someone out there.

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  30k miles update - 2011 Infiniti QX56
  By johnhw - October 5 - 4:43 pm

  Flawless thus far, at 30 miles. Plano, Tx has discovered this great upscale/affordable, luxury SUV. Love the technology, have delux touring, technology and required Entertainment to get the other two. The blind spot warning is great as well as the feature that slows you when you are approaching a stopped vehicle. Helpful without being intrusive and you can turn it off or on too. Hydraulic suspension option is nice too, no head toss at all in this comfy SUV... had a puppy who got car sick in my luxury cars but not in this smooth riding vehicle... No issues and plan to keep it a long long time... 4 wheel drive works great too, handles ice and big wheels/tires handle bumps/pot holes but smooth

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  Best SUV Ever! - 2006 Infiniti QX56
  By Gary Duenas - September 19 - 4:43 pm

  My Wife had a Choice of Any type of SUV out there but liked the Nissan Armada. We both saw a QX56 & said thats it! Not knowing it was the same SUV. We Love the Body style, Interior, GPS, Bose system, backup camera & audible warning, easy lifting 2nd row seats, DVD entertainment (added another Headrest DVD system), didnt include Tow Package but decided later not to add one because it Cheapens the look of the vehicle, added 22" Customs Wheels w/Low profile tires, Cold Air Intake and Exhaust system (MagnaFlow) for Fuel efficiency. Only problem that we inccured are that the Sunroofs plastic bracket comes off a lot, Air condition controls and all Passengers windows sometimes doesnt work.

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  2004 QX 56 - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By B Coombs - September 17 - 4:13 am

  Vehicle has performed well, and for a 2004 model, has some superior qualities, like rear view camera, and front radar that controls the vehicle speed while using cruise control. Plenty of size and comfort for any taste, it handles well in adverse Midwest weather, and for a large SUV earns respectable 16 mpg mileage. Overall I would seriously consider buying another version of this vehicle when I replace this one.

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  Regret Buying QX56 Every Day! - 2007 Infiniti QX56
  By Maxjack - September 14 - 11:00 am

  Worst mistake Ive ever made. Ive had problems with this vehicle the first 3 hrs I had it. Once vehicle was bought, Infiniti customer service vanished. Car was brand new and had many scratches and flaws. DVD player broke, differentials went bad within 4 months, rust on vehicle, key fobs work some days and some days not. This car has paint chips everywhere! A bug hits the car and the paint chips! This car has new squeaks and rattles every day. Interior is very plasticy and is put together poorly. None of the plastic lines up. Leather is falling off of door. Infinity just keeps gluing it and wont fix it. I could not be any more disappointed in a company.

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  Great Ride - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By sjd9346 - September 5 - 10:00 am

  Just purchased two months ago. This is a great SUV. We drove them all and price was not a concern. The QX56 has the biggest rear seats, the best ride and the best acceleration for a full size. The styling is very unique and it always turns heads. It works well either going to Home Depot, or out with friends to a nice restaurant. Perfect versatility. This is one solid feeling SUV, it eats up the bumps - smooth as silk, but you arent afraid to tackle potholes.

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  Luxury SUV for 8 people - 2010 Infiniti QX56
  By Sandeep - August 8 - 10:26 am

  I have driven large SUVs for over a decade. The QX56 has exceptional drive, handling and manners for vehicles this size. The electronics are very well equipped and the controls are easy to understand. The build quality is very good and I could not find any other SUV that compares. Given the low cost of this compared to the Cadillac, Lexus, Mercedes, its unbeatable. To top it all, no need to buy any extra options - it comes with everything as standard !

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  QX56: Best Luxury SUV in the World - 2008 Infiniti QX56
  By QX - July 30 - 3:16 am

  I just purchased my 08 QX and am completely in love w/it. I am a definite car enthusiast and there is simply no SUV that provides a better overall package of luxury and amenities in the world. It delivers powerful performance, its very smooth and quiet on the road, the list of features is astounding, and it looks gorgeous. I test drove an Escalade. There is no comparison. The QX56 is smoother, quieter, has a lot more features, and actually provides better performance and quicker response than the Escalade.

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  Love this SUV - 2006 Infiniti QX56
  By Shugrady - July 23 - 1:13 pm

  I just got my QX56 5 days ago and Im so happy. I traded in a 2001 QX4 that served us well. We decided to make the leap to a BIG SUV and it was the absolute right thing to do. Its fun to drive, theres tons of room for everything (and everyone), and it looks great. My husband thinks Im nuts to want to drive such a big car, but it makes me feel extremely safe, plus it drives like a luxury car, not a big SUV. This is our 4th Infiniti and we are customers for life.