EDMUNDS.COM 2004 INFINITI QX56
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 Summary
What Edmunds.com Says
If the style suits you, the rest of this imported luxury liner should too as the QX56 more than measures up to its domestic competitors.
Pros
Powerful and refined V8 power, good balance of ride and handling, generous towing capacity, roomy second-row seats, effective video parking monitor.
Cons
Some low-grade cabin trim, typical big SUV thirst, limited usefulness of third-row seats.
What''s New for 2004
The QX56 is an all-new full-size luxury SUV from Infiniti designed to compete against the likes of Cadillac''s Escalade and the Lincoln Navigator.
Overview
Introduction:
When it comes to full-size luxury SUVs, Lincoln and Cadillac have ruled the category with their expressively styled and hugely powerful Escalade and Navigator models. With the introduction of the QX56, Infiniti is looking to make its own mark on the segment with a powerful and luxurious sport-ute of its own. "Q" has long been the letter to signify Infiniti''s top models, such as the Q45 sedan, while the "X" stands for sport-utility. Finally, "56" denotes the SUV''s 5.6-liter engine. Looking at the QX56''s profile, it''s obvious that it''s based on the Nissan Armada. It''s not uncommon for luxury SUVs to share a familial resemblance with lower-line siblings, but we find the Armada''s styling, particularly the roof and side window design, a little bizarre. With a weight of 5,600 pounds, the QX56 needs some serious motor to move it out, and it''s got it. Displacing 5.6 liters, the 32-valve V8 pumps out 315 horsepower (10 more than in the Armada) and 390 pound-feet of torque -- more than enough to make the heavyweight QX56 feel light on its 18-inch tires. Both rear-wheel-drive (2WD) and four-wheel-drive (4WD) configurations are available. With a towing capacity of nearly 9,000 pounds (8,900 to be exact) the QX56 probably has more capacity than 90 percent of its owners will ever need. Inside, it''s obvious that Infiniti attempted to turn a sow''s ear (a.k.a. the Armada''s interior) into a silk purse. The results are a mixed bag; the leather upholstery, beautiful wood trim and handsomely stitched and well-padded armrests boost the luxury quotient considerably over the bland Armada''s. And both the first- and second-row seats are heated. But some low-grade components, notably the hard plastic used on the doors and dash top bring it down when compared to its more lavishly appointed competitors. Nevertheless, the QX56''s plush leather seats are sure to be enjoyed by all, and there''s enough legroom in the second row so that even six-footers can get comfortable. For those who may need eight-passenger capacity, a second-row bench seat is a no-cost option in lieu of the standard captain''s chairs. With class-leading performance, massive towing capacity (nearly double that of the Lexus LX 470) and a roomy and comfortable cabin, the QX56 certainly makes a strong case for itself in the practical sense. Its success will depend on how many buyers in this prestige-oriented segment are willing to prioritize those attributes over less substantial ones such as flashy style and status-quo nameplates.
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For Pricing information, see Edmunds'' Pricing page. |
Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options:
The QX56 is a full-size four-door luxury SUV with one trim level and either two- or four-wheel drive. As expected, standard features are plentiful, including 18-inch chrome wheels, xenon headlights, leather seating for seven, real wood trim, a DVD-based navigation system, a 10-speaker Bose audio system, dual-zone automatic climate control for the front seats, a separate rear air conditioner, one-touch power windows and a power rear liftgate. The short list of options includes a bench seat for the second row (increasing capacity to eight), satellite radio (XM or Sirius), a power sunroof and a very handy rear backup camera system packaged with adaptive cruse control. A DVD entertainment system is also available to entertain backseat passengers.
Powertrains and Performance:
Power comes by way of a 5.6-liter DOHC V8 with 315 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed automatic handles shifting duties, sending the power to either the rear wheels or all four wheels via Infiniti''s All-Mode all-wheel-drive system. Maximum towing capacity is 8,900 pounds. As expected, fuel economy is not very good with EPA ratings of 13 mpg city and 18-19 mpg highway.
Safety:
Side curtain airbags offer protection to all three rows of passengers, and seat-mounted side-impact airbags protect front-seat passengers. A reverse-sensing system is standard, and a useful rear video camera is optional. All QX56s include ABS, traction control and stability control, and a tire-pressure monitor. Power-adjustable pedals help owners find an ideal driving position and are linked to the standard memory system.
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For more Safety information, see Edmunds'' Safety page. |
Interior Design and Special Features:
The QX56 interior is swathed in leather and thick carpeting. The steering wheel is trimmed in wood and aluminum, and the console features a generous plank of either dark Macore or blonde Apaya wood trim. Unfortunately, hard plastics on the dash and doors somewhat detract from the upscale ambiance. Second-row captain''s chairs are standard, along with a removable center console and third-row fold-flat bench seat. A fold-flat second-row bench seat is optional. Big as it feels on the inside, the QX56 has less maximum cargo capacity than an Escalade or Navigator, with just over 97 cubic feet of space. But if you''re planning to seat passengers in all three rows, the Infiniti has the advantage, with a generous 20 cubic feet behind the third row.
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For more Interior Features information, see Edmunds'' Specifications page. |
Driving Impressions:
Around town, the QX56 moves out briskly and effortlessly storms up freeway on-ramps to blend into fast-moving traffic. The five-speed automatic provides seamless gear changes and steps down promptly when a burst of power is needed for quick passing. Far from being a one-trick pony, the QX56 has a chassis to match its potent power plant. An independent suspension all around provides the well-damped ride quality that luxury buyers would expect along with surprisingly nimble handling for a vehicle of its size. Body lean is noticeable when cornering, but it''s nothing excessive -- just a reminder to the driver that in spite of the QX56''s sure handling, there is still a lot of sheet metal getting tossed around.
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For more Driving Impressions, Recent Articles and Car Awards from Edmunds'' editors, see Edmunds'' Road Tests page. |
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