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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  QX56 Great Car! - 2006 Infiniti QX56
  By Trucker - July 11 - 8:40 am

  I have done a lot of research over the past 6 months and finally purchased a 2006 QX56 in January. We purchased the QX for my wife and 3 small kids while I will now drive the Lexus LX that previously was the wifes. I have to say, that is looks like any of the issues with the car in 04/05 have been fixed now. The truck is quiet (will never be as silent as a car), solidly built and has the BEST features. I was ready to buy a new LX, but opted for the styling of the QX and frankly a lot more room too! I hate that the Lexus seats fold up against the windows in my LX - but this is no problem in the QX. This car feels like it will last a long time. The comfort is unsurpassed.

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  Best Large Luxury SUV, Period - 2008 Infiniti QX56
  By Luv QX56 - July 11 - 3:56 am

  We travel a lot with 2 very tall kids. So when searching for a large SUV, rear legroom is a must. Having looked at all the typical choices (GMC, Chevy, Ford, Cadillac, Toyota, Lexus) once we looked at the Infiniti, nothing else came close. The number of options that are standard are amazing (i.e. heated steering wheel, rear heated seats, auto fold side mirrors, power 3rd row seats, power liftgate, etc.). The interior design and legroom of the QX56 are far superior to the others. The space behind the 3rd row seat is somewhat limited, but rarely do we use that seat. Mileage isnt great, averaging about 15 mpg between city/highway driving, but I knew that going into the purchase.

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  Love it! - 2008 Infiniti QX56
  By branfordboater - June 25 - 12:50 pm

  The most comfortable, powerful, well equipped SUV that I have ever owned and I have owned them all. Highly recommended, unless you are not a fan of the gas pump.

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  2005 Electrical Problems - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By Kellie - June 25 - 10:53 am

  We had this vehilce for 4 days when we ran out of gas due to a faulty electrical system (the gauge read full). Since 4/05, when we bought it new, we have had the brakes replaced, the rotors replaced, and more work done to the electrical system (on several occassions). I would not recommend this vehicle to anyone.

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  QX56 Owner for over a year - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By Jon R - June 17 - 4:20 pm

  Many mechanical issues. Replaced front brake rotors and pads 4 times. Infiniti knows of brake shutter problems and finally found a fix. Both front driver and passanger window motors had to be replaced as windows would not roll up properly. Interior plastic scratches very easily. If you have kids....expect the interior to get all beat up looking and scratched. The cruise control sensor will not function if the sensor gets any dirt and water on it....so forget about using in the rain. We use in the snow during the winter and the 4X4 stability is poor due to heavy weight difference toward the rear. On a positive note, the service dept is excellent. I would not recommend.

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  A great SUV - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By bill r - June 13 - 1:56 am

  I checked out all the large SUVs and am a previous owner of the Lexus LX470 and Escalade EXT. The QX56 was tops because: 1- The interior room, especially the 2nd row. 2- The seats fold flat for excellent storage and comfortable for my aging Golden Retriever. 3- The looks are attractive . 4- The rear parking camera. 5- The navagation system is far more practical and useful than On Star, plus its free. 6-Infiniti people, corporate, called me to ask how I like it and how they could make it better. Impressive.I wanted to get another LX, but they still insist that their removeable 3rd row seats, are a good idea. Who wants to store them.I believe most people spending 70k dont have small kids.

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  Excellent - 2006 Infiniti QX56
  By J. Ur - June 12 - 11:16 am

  The vehicle has been an amazing experience. The ride is exceptional, with power to spare. Comfort level is high and quality is what you would expect from an Infiniti. Get numerous compliments from strangers. Only complaint is the temperature controls are confusing and the A/C gets turn on unknowingly.

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  Best of All the Big Boys! - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By Haleem7 - June 12 - 10:00 am

  I love the room in this QX, the performance on it is second to none for a truck its size. Inifinitis Lease rates for this vehicle are outstanding. This is my 4th Infiniti, so as you can see I do love the Infiniti line, but unfortuantely for whatever reason they dont hold there values well at all. So I suggest to anyone interested in this vehicle to at least look at the Leasing option. This was my first Lease and I was completely satisfied with the terms!

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  best car i ever owned - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By Daniel De Leon - June 7 - 10:00 am

  The QX56 is by far the best car i haved ever owned. The ride is very nice. I love the navigation system and the Smart vision, it is very quiet. From the second that I opened the door I could tell that it was very luxurious. I have driven the escalade,navigator, and Yukon Denali and they dont even come close to the quality of the QX56, and they are way over priced for what they come with. Its a great car.

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  QX56 - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By Mississippi - May 19 - 3:00 pm

  Bought this in the first model year. Too many small problems and a few big ones. Several of the problems cant be fixed because they are "not reproducible" at the dealership.