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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  Wow, what a car. Love our QX56!!!!!! - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By RCBlitz - December 10 - 10:00 am

  We have had our new QX56 for about a month now, and we are so glad that we decided to go with infiniti. We test drove all major full sized SUVs and narrowed it down to the QX56 and Navigator. Both great vehicles, but the QX56 is just that much better in so many areas. We have had no problems at all and I have been listening for the resonance and rattle that some have spoken of to find nothing at this point. If you have any doubts about this car and are on the fence then take my advice...get it now and you will be very happy that you did. I was hesitant at first with it being the 1st year out, but in hindsight it is the best car we have owned.

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  My Taste - 2005 Infiniti QX56
  By Robert Kinn - November 10 - 5:26 am

  More than i expected, had a esclade, this puts the cad to shame for the money ,out pulls, out rides 9200 tow vers 79 for the cad i pull a 7800 pound boat, from sarasota fl to buffalo ny dont know its back there. R.A. Kinn

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  Fun Ship - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By Allan - November 8 - 12:56 am

  I am sold on Infiniti. Having driven BMWs for over 15 years I must say that as soon as I test drove the Infiniti it felt very much like a Beamer but much better. Coming from an X5 BMW I wanted to have speed and pick up and still have a car feel to driving. The QX56 has it all, power, comfort and the Cadillac Escalade that I test drove was no comparison. This is an 04 with only 21,000 miles so it feels like new. Took it on the interstate for the first time and it was like heaven. The cockpit gives one the feel of an aircraft. Awesome job Infiniti Im hooked!!

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  QX56=Luxury - 2010 Infiniti QX56
  By Dr_Infiniti - October 23 - 2:53 pm

  Great SUV! Great design! Luxury is unmatched at a great price! Takes several days just to learn about all the options/features that it offers! There is plenty of room even for my 6ft 3 inch body!

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  SUVs Best of the Best....QX56 - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By gabeQX56 - September 22 - 10:00 am

  My wife and I test have driven the GMC Denali, Toyota Sequoia, & the Cadillac Escalade. We fell in love with the Denali, well at least until we saw the Infiniti QX56. Good thing we waited for the QX56 to come out before purchaing a Denali (we would have been kicking ourselves in the butt). We saw the inside of the QX56, we knew we had to get this vehicle. We test drove the vehicle and we couldnt believe how nice the handling was. It didnt feel like youre driving a HUGE SUV. It felt more like drving a mid-size SUV. I couldnt believe how much power this vehicle has (V8 315hp 5.6 liter). My wife and I LOVE our new QX.

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  Trust me dont do it - 2010 Infiniti QX56
  By Chris - September 21 - 9:36 pm

  Have owned them all. Landcruiser, Suburban, LX 560. Infinti is supposedly great build quality. This could be the worst car I have ever owned. Great features which supports why we bought it but the finish quality is horrific not to mention the ride quality. If i were at it again, sacrifice the captains chairs in the second row and consider a on year old Lexus or land cruiser. Even Cadillac would be better. Inf/Nissan cant build large SUV or trucks to save their lives

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  Well kept secret - 2011 Infiniti QX56
  By teamyoung - September 20 - 3:09 pm

  I read all the reviews on how the looks were something you had to get by. The looks are what sets it apart. I like different not cookie cutter SUVs. The ride and quality are great. We put on a lot of miles and also haul a 22ft boat. Works great. The features are easy to use for the most part. The only one that is a pain is the control for the side mirrors. It low and to the drivers left out of sight. Once you know where they are and can do it by feel its ok but my wife has a terrible time with them. I also wish it came with remote start. At SUVs over 60K it should be standard. Other than that its the best large SUV on the market for any price.

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  Just bought but Awesome - 2010 Infiniti QX56
  By Matt S. - September 19 - 2:46 am

  I just bought the car of my dreams. Only have had it a few days, but it is definitely what a luxury suv should be. Rich styling, super comfortable and size is awesome for my 2, and soon to be, 3 kids. Smooth and fast for its size, its definitely a head turner.

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  great value - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By twiliteguy - September 14 - 9:23 pm

  I was looking for a large safe luxurious SUV for my family with good value and have found it in this vehicle. Comfort level is second to none in my opinion in the QX56. Gas mileage is not an issue when you buy in this class and size. There were issues with software probs in the navigation system but these were quickly rectified by my dealer. Dollar for dollar this SUV is got to be considered when purchasing in this class.

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  Our new SUV - 2004 Infiniti QX56
  By Sandie Pearl - September 11 - 10:00 am

  By far the nicest, and most comfortable SUV we have owned. Handles well, powerful, yet gentleon the bones. Have not had a chabce to test fuel economy yet, but who cares, we want comfort, response handling.