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:

• 

  Love, Love, Love my 2011 QX56 - 2011 Infiniti QX56
  By TonyG5003 - April 18 - 7:37 pm

  I traded in a 2010. If youre a current QX owner... youve got to experience in the new QX in person - I think Infiniti has hit a home run. The new QX drives MUCH more like a car than a big SUV. It has VERY surprising pick-up and power, and the braking is superb. The visibility from the driving position is excellent - I truly feel like I have full command of the road, as opposed to simply being an occupant. As for wind-noise... Ive driven several times well over 70MPH, and unless its very gusty outside, or theres a strong headwind, there is little, if any wind-noise to speak of in the new QX. Its very, very quiet.

• 

  Great leg room, but.... - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By Jason P - April 14 - 1:46 pm

  We have owned the QX56 for about three weeks. It offers lots of leg room for passengers. I wish the front passenger seat was offered with 10 way adjustments and was a tad bit more comfortable. The storage behind the third row is VERY disappointing. We were forced to place our luggage in the third row, next to our son, on our first long trip. Infiniti should consider splitting the third row bench seat to accomodate luggage and at least one third row passenger. All-in- all, my wife and I prefer the QX56 over all of the other SUV models we tested. If you are looking for 8 passenger room, you should strongly consider this model; however, beware of the limited storage space!!!

• 

  Brand New Qx - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By QX56 - March 24 - 2:00 am

  I have been driving it for a week and hope to have it as long as my last vehicle (e-250) 14 years. This SUV is the best this world has to offer in my opinion. It has the combination of options that I was looking for in an SUV not availible in any of the others.

• 

  Best Large SUV Available - 2006 Infiniti QX56
  By Larry - March 20 - 7:03 pm

  Superb handling and ride. By far the best. Interior comfort is very good especially for a 6 2" person. Rear seats have lots of room with heaters and removable center console for easier entry to 3rd. row seats. My wife loves her QX56. After 12 SUVs this is the best. Very Good Dealer Service

• 

  Wanted something else - 2006 Infiniti QX56
  By Southwest - March 17 - 9:50 am

  I really wanted the Lincoln Navigator but saw the Infinity on the road and like the look. Drove the Lexus, Lincoln, Escalade, Hummer, and the QX56 won me over. The first speed bump I drove over shocked me because I barely felt it. I was so dissapointed in the interior of the Lincoln. Cheap cover over the GPS lost it for me. Lexus 3rd row folding against the side taking up space. If you are enviro sensitive, look at the amount of emissions put out by the Infinity vs. competitors.

• 

  so far, so good - 2006 Infiniti QX56
  By pubsmeister - March 13 - 4:40 pm

  After one month, no problems. A clear upgrade from our suburban. Great power, solid suspension, firm brakes. Around town we remove the second row center console- that way the kids can get to the third row without flipping seats (nice when there are car seats or boosters in the second row). Biggest problems are with telematics. Bluetooth implementation is simplistic with poor voice recognition. I absolutely hate how the nav system is crippled when driving (its an SUV, the front seat passenger can enter commands). It makes the idrive in our BMW look even more awesome.

• 

  Not a very happy camper - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By TexanByChoice - March 13 - 10:00 am

  I have a little over 12000 miles on my QX56, and am having a very difficult time getting some "problems" taken care of. I have now had it back to the dealer twice trying to get a horrible rattle stopped. My wife just had it to the dealer today (its a 9 hour round trip) and reports that she had gone less than 50 miles and it started again. The person in the service department went so far as to tell her "hopefully it might be stopped, but I cant say for sure". This is rediculous to have a $55000 vehicle with rattles to begin with, and worse that they cant seem to get them stopped. Consumer Affairs will hear from me tomorrow!

• 

  This is a REAL SUV (QX-56) - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By A GREAT BUY - March 13 - 1:46 am

  We were toying with the idea of getting a run of the mill Tahoe when we drove by the Infiniti showroom. We have had sports cars and traded in a Volvo convertible (C-70) Now my wife says its her turn to run them off the road! If you can afford the premium fuel and dont mind if a K&N filter doesnt add to the lowly 12 miles per gallon this is THE vehicle for you !!!

• 

  Nice SUV - 2009 Infiniti QX56
  By DaveG - March 7 - 8:20 am

  Weve only had the QX56 for a week but so far we really enjoy it. Gas mileage is about 13.8mpg with hwy/city combined. Kids love the dvd player in the back, ride is soft but responsive, engine has lots of power.

• 

  Awesome Q! - 2008 Infiniti QX56
  By LexLock - March 3 - 10:50 pm

  This SUV has all the bells and whistle that you would want and need. Drives and handles very well. Ive owed several SUVs, hands down its the best so far. Love all the new upgrades in the 08.