2011 INFINITI QX56 Review
2011 INFINITI QX56 Review





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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Plentiful features, both standard and optional
- powerful V8
- handles great for its size.
Cons
- Cramped third-row seats
- moderate ride harshness
- polarizing exterior styling.
What’s new
The Infiniti QX56 has been redesigned for 2011.
Edmunds says
Questionable exterior styling aside, the 2011 Infiniti QX56 is a solid choice among large luxury SUVs.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2011 INFINITI QX56 4dr SUV (5.6L 8cyl 7A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.32 per gallon for premium unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$323/mo for QX56 Base
QX56 Base
vs
$258/mo
Avg. Large SUV
Vehicle overview
Just when you thought that large luxury SUVs were destined to be as extinct as the dinosaurs that power these thirsty beasts, Infiniti has plugged the segment into life support with its redesigned 2011 Infiniti QX56. Just as before, the QX remains Infiniti's biggest SUV, but this time around the company has focused on better handling, added refinement and improved fuel economy.
Unlike the previous-generation model, which was related to the U.S.-built Nissan Armada pickup truck, the new QX56 is based on the Japan-built Nissan Patrol, a dedicated all-wheel-drive utility vehicle that is the company's answer to the Toyota Land Cruiser. The shift in platforms for the U.S. means a larger, better passenger cabin as well as a lengthy list of new technology. One interesting feature is the optional Hydraulic Body Motion Control system, which uses interconnected shock absorbers to combat body roll as well as brake dive and acceleration squat.
Under the hood is a 5.6-liter V8. Though it's basically the same engine as before, the adoption of direct injection and variable valve timing and lift brings its output up to 400 horsepower, a healthy rise over last year's 320 hp. Also new is a seven-speed automatic transmission (replacing a five-speed automatic), which helps increase fuel economy by an impressive 14 percent.
Major improvements can be found throughout the cabin, which looks more like a private jet than an SUV. Top-notch materials and craftsmanship define the QX's luxury status, along with plenty of technological features that almost make the driver redundant. The QX still offers three rows of seating and is also noteworthy in terms of cargo capacity, as it's able to accommodate more than its competitors.
There are some areas of contention, however, the most notable being the 2011 Infiniti QX56's bloated exterior styling. Also, the standard 20-inch tires compromise the QX's ride quality and also make this very capable platform unsuitable for off-road use. Light-duty all-terrain off-roading (gravel roads and snow) is about as much as the big Infiniti can handle, as it lacks a locking rear differential and suitable tires. It's also worth mentioning that the third-row seats are suitable for smaller passengers only.
For most consumers the new QX56 stacks up fairly well. The 2011 Cadillac Escalade stands as the Infiniti's main rival, with similar appointments and capabilities. The 2011 Lincoln Navigator is roomier but underpowered. Also worth consideration is the Mercedes GL550 for its prestige and polish. And if you want something with off-roading chops, we'd steer you to the all-conquering 2011 Lexus LX 570 and 2011 Land Rover Range Rover. But with its impressive feature content, secure handling and potent V8, the 2011 Infiniti QX56 represents a solid choice as a luxurious hauler of people and cargo.
Performance & mpg
Motivating the 2011 Infiniti QX56 is a 5.6-liter V8 that produces 400 hp and 413 pound-feet of torque. 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. When properly equipped, the QX is capable of towing up to 8,500 pounds and is aided by a tow/haul mode for the transmission as well as an automatic-leveling rear suspension.
Despite its hefty 6,000-pound curb weight, the QX56 hustles from zero to 60 mph in a quick 6.8 seconds. Due to its high profile and heavyweight standing, handling limits are relatively low. When equipped with the optional Hydraulic Body Motion Control system, however, cornering stability is significantly improved. This system increases hydraulic pressure to the outer dampers in a curve, reducing body roll and providing a much more confident cornering attitude.
It's understandable that the QX56 doesn't impress when it comes to fuel economy. The EPA estimates fuel consumption at 14 mpg city/20 mpg highway and 16 mpg combined whether the vehicle has rear or four-wheel drive. This is the best fuel economy among the Infiniti's competitors by a few mpg.
Safety
The 2011 Infiniti QX56 has the same safety features that you'd find on a luxury car, including front airbags, front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, traction control, stability control and antilock brakes.
In addition, the QX56 can further protect occupants with the bevy of additional features included in the Technology package. These include a lane-departure warning and prevention system, Distance Control Assist (which alerts the driver to slowing traffic ahead and increases throttle pedal resistance when following too closely), Intelligent Brake Assist (which applies the brakes to reduce damage if the driver does not slow the vehicle), front pre-crash seatbelt tensioners and a blind spot warning system.
Stopping from 60 mph requires only 123 feet, which is a figure we're more accustomed to seeing from a much lighter passenger car. For an SUV of this size, it's downright impressive.
Driving
With 400 hp under the hood and seven speeds in the gearbox to keep that power on tap, the 2011 Infiniti QX56 should satisfy most power-hungry drivers. As such, merging onto an interstate and passing slower traffic is effortless. The optional Hydraulic Body Motion Control system works as advertised, keeping body roll to a minimum in the curves and instilling a feeling of confidence.
Unfortunately, opting for the active suspension will also require the addition of the 22-inch wheels as part of the Deluxe Touring package. These wheels and the accompanying low-profile tires diminish the suspension's ability to smooth out potholes and ruts, generally making the QX feel needlessly harsh. Over smooth pavement, however, the ride is pleasantly serene, with no wind or road noise to speak of.
Interior
The 2011 Infiniti QX56 envelops passengers in a luxurious cabin where nearly every surface is covered in leather or rich wood trim. Every panel and interior element is tightly fitted, with no detectable squeaks or creaks. With plenty of pockets, bins and cupholders, finding a place to stow your personal effects is never a concern.
The same goes for larger items, as the QX56's cargo capacity is greater than competing luxury SUVs. Luggage space behind the rear seats rates a generous 19.3 cubic feet. Folding the second and third rows flat expands that space to a massive 112 cubes. The QX's boxy shape further enhances its cargo capabilities, allowing it to easily accommodate large bulky items.
As with many Infiniti vehicles, the QX boasts a long list of high-tech features. Besides the ability to play three different DVDs simultaneously (one in the front seats, two in the rear), the second-row screens feature an auxiliary audio/video input. This allows parents to connect a video game console to keep children blissfully occupied. Infiniti even went so far as to ensure that a Nintendo Wii system would fit in the center console.
One feature we found particularly useful is the remote second-row seat folding control, which is part of the optional Deluxe Touring package. This allows the driver or front passenger to remotely fold the second-row seats to allow easier access to the third row, a feature that should prove especially helpful in the rain and for letting children scamper in and out with a minimum of fuss.
2011 INFINITI QX56 models
The 2011 Infiniti QX56 is a full-size luxury SUV with seating for seven or eight passengers. It is available in either rear- or four-wheel drive, but only in one well-appointed trim level. Standard features include 20-inch alloy wheels, a Class IV trailer hitch, automatic bi-xenon headlights, foglights, heated power-folding exterior mirrors, running boards, roof rails, a sunroof, tinted rear windows, a power liftgate and rain-sensing windshield wipers.
On the inside, the QX56 includes keyless ignition/entry, tri-zone climate control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a top-view camera system, front and rear parking sensors, Bluetooth phone connectivity with streaming audio, a heated 10-way-adjustable driver seat with memory (eight-way for the front passenger), leather upholstery, second-row captain's chairs, a power-folding third-row bench seat, wood interior trim, a power tilt-and-telescoping heated steering wheel, a voice-activated navigation system with real-time traffic and weather, and a 13-speaker Bose audio system (with CD/MP3 player, USB jack, satellite radio and auxiliary audio/video input).
Options are arranged in a succession of packages, most of which require the preceding option package. The first option is the Theater package, which adds a twin-screen rear entertainment system and a 120-volt power outlet. From there you can add the Split Bench Seat package which replaces the second-row captain's chairs and center console with a 60/40 split-folding bench, increasing seating capacity from seven to eight.
The Deluxe Touring package tacks on 22-inch wheels, Infiniti's Hydraulic Body Motion Control system, vehicle-speed-sensitive power steering, heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row outboard seats, upgraded leather upholstery, remote second-row seat-folding control, special wood interior trim, an upgraded climate control system with air purification/filtration, and headlight washers (4WD only). Finally, the Technology package adds adaptive headlights, 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.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2011 INFINITI QX56.
5 star(68%)
4 star(10%)
3 star(6%)
2 star(8%)
1 star(8%)
50 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
2 out of 5 stars
Don't be deceived by these 5 Star reviews
Derek, 02/01/2016
2011 INFINITI QX56 4dr SUV (5.6L 8cyl 7A)
Do some extensive research before purchasing this vehicle. It has a major timing chain issue that will cost you $5,000+ to repair. It also has problems with the catalytic converters which are $2,100+ each to repair as well as othe documented other issues. BUYER BEWARE! Infiniti is aware of these common problems in their "top of the line" vehicle, however they refuse to recall or offer … any assistance with the cost of repair. Don't get me wrong, next to a Land Rover Range Rover HSE, this is probably the most luxurious SUV I've driven and I fell in love with all of it's bells and whistles. Unfortunately we will have to soon part ways due to the frequency and cost of repairs at only 90k miles on a well maintained "hi-end" vehicle.
Disappointed Nissan Customer since 1985.
UPDATE: Aug 1, 2016
Infiniti contacted me last week to advise me the timing chain issue is now being covered by Infiniti and I will receive a refund for repairs made to the vehicle.
Thank You Infiniti, for doing the right thing and giving your loyal customers what we expect from you in this regard!
**I have driven the vehicle for 10k miles since the fix and haven't had any further timing chain issues.
2.63 out of 5 stars
Infiniti Consumer Affairs?
bummed, 09/28/2010
2011 INFINITI QX56 4dr SUV (5.6L 8cyl 7A)
With 1500 miles, airbag sensors needed to be replaced in passenger seat. Horn honks at random times. Called Infiniti Consumer Affairs and have been put through the ringer! Obviously an electrical glitch somewhere, vehicle has been in the shop for 2 weeks! Very disappointed with Infiniti's support on a $65,000 vehicle! Buyer Beware!
3.5 out of 5 stars
Nothing but Problems
what2do, 11/10/2010
2011 INFINITI QX56 4dr SUV (5.6L 8cyl 7A)
At 300 miles I had to put my car in the shop because of vibrations in the steering wheel, a loud roaring noise when you pushed the gas pedal (still unknown why and no fix) heated seats and the windshield wipers not working correctly. My car was in the shop 3-4 times for the same problem, kept saying it was fixed and it wasn't. Consumer Affairs is a mess. Now in the process of Lemon Law … and returning the vehicle for a refund. I'm really upset because I love this vehicle. It is very nice and love to drive it (besides the problems). But it is not worth the hassle and the stress I have been going through. Apparently, a lot of complaints have been made about the steering and the roaring noise.
2 out of 5 stars
Great performance/ AWFUL RELIABILITY and COMPANY
EllisFSU, 11/28/2016
2011 INFINITI QX56 4dr SUV (5.6L 8cyl 7A)
Forum,
So, I am not the kind of guy to do this. I don’t just take to the interweb anytime I get excited or angered. I don’t post pictures of my dinners; I don’t forward funny cat videos. Heck, the only time I have ever tweeted was when my 7-year old kicked me in the goods. The truth is I don’t have time between clients, kids, and trips to the Infiniti service department to be doing … this kind of stuff. But sometimes, things are so bad, you are left with no other choice but to stand up and make a stink. That’s the point I have reached with my Infiniti QX56. Part of me feels the need to warn potential buyers of the hell I have suffered; a larger part of me needs to sleep peacefully knowing I did not simply submit to the will of a corporation more beholden to their bottom line than they are to their customers.
I will not go into great detail regarding most of the countless problems I have had with my QX56. Just know that I felt close enough to my service advisor to send him a family Christmas card. By the way, my service advisor, as well as my local service department, has been wonderful. It’s not their fault my car has had more problems than a Kardashian marriage. Really, until this most recent problem, I was content to simply never own another Infiniti product as long as I live.
Then, my paint started peeling off in king-sized sheets. I mean, it’s not flaking from rock-dings, its peeling off like clothes during spring break. No big deal, right? I mean, this is obviously a manufacturing defect, so Infiniti will have no issue paying to have it repainted, right? I mean, it’ll be inconvenient, but I have gotten used to that with this car. WRONG!!!!!!! I hope you can imagine my jaw-dropping SHOCK to learn Infiniti will not pay for what is CLEARLY a manufacturing defect because paint is “not covered under warranty.”
Yes, paint is not covered under warranty and I understand why. People do stupid things with their cars, so covering paint comprehensively would be problematic. However, this isn’t the result of me driving through some brush or using a particular soap for washing my car. THIS IS CLEARLY A MANUFACTURING DEFECT I AM BEING ASKED TO PAY TO REPAIR. I get it, really. As a company of profit, Infiniti does not have to pay. However, as a company of principle, they should certainly pay.
I have been told by my dealership, which reached out to the “regional service rep,” that they will not pay to cover this manufacturing defect. So, I am no longer seeking coverage from Infiniti. I am not going to beg and grovel for a company to stand behind their product. I will, however, yell and scream to anybody within earshot not to buy an Infiniti automobile. Heck, I stopped by the new car lot (after leaving the service department) and had a "buyer beware" conversation with a family looking at a new QX80. They were quite shocked at my paint. I told them my car was a special "leprosy" edition QX. Laughs all around as they got got back in their car and drove off.
Needless to say, it’s become my life’s goal (not really, but a goal nonetheless), to cost Infiniti more in future sales than it would have cost them to repaint my car. That’s how free markets work. If I am unhappy with a product, I am free to let the world know. So, I also purchased the domain www.infiniteexpenses.com and will build a simple website detailing my woes and the woes of other Infiniti owners in similar situations. (Actually, there seems to be a bunch of owners of white, 2011 QX56’s facing the EXACT same problem, so there was clearly an issue in that manufacturing run). I will then circulate that domain through as many channels as possible to get my experience out. I’ll also post this in as many relevant forums as I can find.
Hell, I have even designed a bumper sticker to put on my car (if you want one, send me your address and I’ll mail it out free!). As you can clearly see, I have more resources than I have good sense, but I’ll achieve my goal of having Infiniti pay one way or another. I may take out a billboard if the mood strikes me. Again, its not the money, its the principle.
Now, back to my cat videos.
2011 QX56 Highlights
Base MSRP | $58,700 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 16 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $323/month |
Seating | 7 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 16.6 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Warranty | 4 years / 60,000 miles |
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