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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  We like it a lot. - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By Allen Pearl - July 18 - 11:46 am

  This auto replaces a 2004 M45. The M45 was very nice, but no trunk room. This SUV fills all of our family needs, has a wonderful ride, and the handling is supburb. All in all, the QX56 is perfect for us, and we love it. Fuel economy is important, but not as important as all of the other features on this car. We love it. Its big, yes, but easy to handle.

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  If you want to indulge yourself... - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By drew b - July 17 - 10:00 am

  I just got my QX56 nine days ago. For years I had intended to get a QX4, and I was very upset when they discontinued it. I had no intention of going with such an enormous vehicle, but I love Infiniti and wanted to stick with them (my last vehicle was a 1997 I30). Unfortunately, I think the FXs are about the ugliest things on the road, so I was considering going with another manufacturer. I tried the Lincoln Aviator, the Cadillac SRX and the Acura MDX. I didnt love any of them. Then, the QX56 came out, and I had the chance to get another Infiniti that I actually liked! Reading the reviews here helped me make up my mind, and Im really happy I got it.

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  Wow. Simply awesome! - 2011 Infiniti QX56
  By Mythreeboys - July 5 - 2:40 am

  Traded my Mercedes GL for this truck. I am SO pleased..The ride quality and interior is far superior. I dont have the extra hydraulic package, but it still rides phenomenal over bumps. Cant imagine what the extra feature would do. All I can say is WOW! LOVE it, and this was a really good choice.

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  My first full size SUV - 2011 Infiniti QX56
  By minhtampa - June 29 - 8:13 pm

  This is my first full size SUV and it is a great vehicle. It handles quite well, just like a full size car. The interior is amazing, probably the best in its class. The exterior is so good looking. The fuel economy is better than I first thought. It is about 18MPG. I really love this SUV. I feel like a king of the road while driving this vehicle.

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  Hard to Believe - 2011 Infiniti QX56
  By Dean Carr - June 20 - 10:00 am

  Ive read the negative reviews and find them hard to believe, purchased my QX56 2011 in September 2010 and have driven 3,000 miles without any issues whatsoever. The quality and craftsmanship is incredible and the gas mileage has been incredible with over 21 MPG on the road and 15 to 16 in the city.

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  RUST! - 2008 Infiniti QX56
  By nefouse - June 18 - 4:08 pm

  After only a few years the frame on this $65,000 full size SUV began to rust.

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  Great car! - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By Gary K - May 30 - 10:00 am

  This car is just great, it drives well and is comfortable! Escalade is nothing compared to this car. I highly recommend it. Very roomy inside I can fit me, my wife my son, (whos 64) my daughter, and our dog in it easilyy!!

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  Disappointed - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By David - May 1 - 9:10 pm

  I own a Chevy and a Mecedes Benz. When I bought the QX-56, I thought I would be treated with the same intensity as I am with the Benz. Instead, I feel like I bought a Chevy. The truck, although pricey, is a terrible driving truck. Its balloon tires bounce down the road and the steering wheel jumps out of my hand over rougher road surfaces. Its dashboard is the most cumbersome I have ever come across. It is noisy and has many rattles. It only has 8,000 miles. I had problems with the front brakes at 3,000 miles. The dealer knew about it. The rotars were warped. They cut them instead of replacing. A Chevy dealer would cut. A benz dealer would replace

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  Great Car - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By robbmickey - April 21 - 1:46 pm

  Bought this car for my wife and we have both loved it. Looked at the Escalade, Denali, Land Cruiser, etc. and picked the QX45. Interior is very roomy and can actually fit 8 adults (although getting into the back seat takes a little work). The car has quite a bit of power and rides smoothly. Great in dash 6 disk changer and sound system. Definitely a family car as it is a big vehicle.

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  2006 QX56 - 2006 Infiniti QX56
  By jtcz06 - March 18 - 11:23 pm

  My daily driver is a 04 Corvette Z06, however I look for reasons to drive the QX56!! I also have a 01 Denali, the QX is so much more of a comfort to drive. We love this truck!!!!