Test Vehicle: - 2011 Infiniti QX56
Why We Drove It: - The redesigned QX56 shifts from its Nissan Titan pickup truck foundation and is now based on the Nissan Patrol full-size SUV sold in other global markets. We wanted to see if the QX finally has what it takes to make a compelling case for itself in a dwindling marketplace.
The Vehix View: - Pricey and thirsty, the 2011 Infiniti QX56 is also extremely comfortable and luxurious. Easily class competitive, large luxury SUV buyers need to give the Infiniti some consideration.
What We Drove
2011 Infiniti QX56
Why We Drove It
Unlike the QX of recent past, the 2011 Infiniti QX56 (view photos) is not constructed upon full-size pickup truck underpinnings shared with the Nissan Titan. Rather, this all-new luxury SUV is based on parent company Nissan’s overseas SUV model, the massive Patrol. We wanted to see if this shift in philosophy bore any fruit.
2011 Infiniti QX56 Driving Impressions
Because it shares nothing with any other North American offering from Nissan, the new 2011 Infiniti QX56 is completely unique and carries Infiniti’s new design language with pride. The only possible exception? Three abreast fender vents that are rather reminiscent of Buick ventiports and which look a tad out of place on an Infiniti. One thing is for sure: no one will confuse this massive, luxury vehicle for anything else. It is big and bold, yet the design details lend elements of softness. It is as if Infiniti’s designers wanted to produce a sensuous brute. They got it right.
Equipped with a 400-horsepower, 5.6-liter V8 that produces 413 lb-ft of torque, the 2011 QX is fast. Those power ratings represent a significant gain over the last iteration of this full-size luxury SUV. A new, more efficient seven-speed automatic transmission is the only transmission available for the QX56. Rear-wheel drive is standard and a fully automatic four-wheel-drive system is optional.
Handling is good, but at the sacrifice of ride comfort. This is mostly because of the massive, optional 22-inch wheels that were installed on our test vehicle. So, while handling is as good (if not better) than the QX’s Lexus equivalent, we can’t help but wonder how this vehicle will handle off-road. Our guess is that the Lexus GX 460 is superior off the pavement.
Infiniti has made leaps and bounds in its recent attempt to improve its interiors. Leathers, woods and metals are all top quality. The overall impression is of old-school luxury over the price-cutting, weight-saving measures taken in the past, and the new QX56 definitely competes with the best Lexus and Mercedes can offer. One issue some of us had with the new interior design is the overwhelming number of control buttons. There is a bit of a learning curve associated with the QX56, as the dials are similarly sized and are located close to one other.
The Infiniti’s front seats are supple, supportive and sit rather high even in the lowest position. During an impromptu comfort discussion, it because clear that people who prefer the highest seating position possible liked the tall driving perch while those who prefer to sit as low as possible did not. The optional second-row captain’s chairs are sublimely comfortable and offer tons of space. Large people should avoid the third-row bench seat as it is most appropriate for children and in-laws.
The Vehix View
Despite being a bit of an anachronism in today’s automotive landscape, the 2011 Infiniti QX56 (view photos) is an excellent full-size luxury SUV. It is pricey and thirsty, but it is also very comfortable and luxurious. This huge sport-ute definitely gives buyers of Cadillac Escalades, Land Rover LR4s, Lexus GX 470s, and Mercedes Benz GL450s a real alternative.
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