The Infiniti QX56, specifically the facelifted version produced from 2007 to 2010, represented Infiniti’s entry into the full-size luxury SUV segment. Powered by a 5.6-liter V8 engine paired with a five-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, this iteration of the QX56 aimed to provide a compelling alternative to established American and European competitors like the Cadillac Escalade, Lincoln Navigator, and Mercedes-Benz GL-Class. The 2007 facelift brought revised styling cues, enhanced interior appointments, and subtle mechanical refinements compared to the original 2003 model. This variant occupied the top trim level within the QX56 lineup, offering a blend of power, luxury, and capability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Infiniti |
| Model | QX56 |
| Generation | QX56 (facelift 2007) |
| Type (Engine) | 5.6 V8 (325 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7-8 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 21.9 l/100 km (10.7 US mpg, 12.9 UK mpg, 4.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11.5 l/100 km (20.5 US mpg, 24.6 UK mpg, 8.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 15.3 l/100 km (15.4 US mpg, 18.5 UK mpg, 6.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.2 kg/Hp, 121.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 198.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 325 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 58.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 533 Nm @ 3400 rpm (393.12 lb.-ft. @ 3400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | VK56DE |
| Engine displacement | 5552 cm3 (338.8 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 98 mm (3.86 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 14.4 l (15.22 US qt | 12.67 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2680 kg (5908.39 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3311 kg (7299.51 lbs.) |
| Max load | 631 kg (1391.12 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1733 l (61.2 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 106 l (28 US gal | 23.32 UK gal) |
| Length | 5255 mm (206.89 in.) |
| Width | 2019 mm (79.49 in.) |
| Height | 1956 mm (77.01 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3130 mm (123.23 in.) |
| Front track | 1715 mm (67.52 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1715 mm (67.52 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 270 mm (10.63 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 275/60 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 2007-2010 QX56 is the VK56DE 5.6-liter V8 engine. This engine, part of Nissan’s VK engine family, is a naturally aspirated, 32-valve DOHC design. It utilizes a cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads, contributing to its robust construction. The VK56DE employs multi-port fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The engine’s 9.8:1 compression ratio strikes a balance between power and fuel efficiency. The five-speed automatic transmission, designated as the 5R110W, is a heavy-duty unit designed to handle the engine’s substantial torque output. This transmission features electronic controls and a torque converter lock-up clutch to improve fuel economy at cruising speeds. The all-wheel-drive system is primarily rear-biased, automatically distributing torque to the front wheels when slippage is detected.
Driving Characteristics
The QX56 5.6L Automatic delivers a smooth and powerful driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 7.4 to 7.8 seconds, respectable for a full-size SUV. The automatic transmission provides seamless gear changes, although it isn’t particularly sporty in its shift programming. The emphasis is on comfort and effortless cruising. Compared to potential manual transmission variants (which were not offered in the US market), the automatic prioritizes ease of use over outright performance. The 533 Nm (393 lb-ft) of torque provides ample pulling power for towing and hauling. The rear-biased all-wheel-drive system enhances stability and traction in various weather conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2007-2010 QX56 came generously equipped, even in its base form. Standard features included leather upholstery, tri-zone automatic climate control, a Bose premium audio system, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, and a rear-seat entertainment system with dual screens. The exterior featured 20-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, and a power liftgate. Optional extras included a navigation system, adaptive cruise control, and a sunroof. The interior trim typically featured woodgrain accents and metallic finishes, creating a luxurious ambiance.
Chassis & Braking
The QX56 rides on a fully independent suspension system, utilizing a McPherson strut setup at the front and a multi-link configuration at the rear. This suspension design provides a comfortable ride quality, effectively absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road surface. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both axles to minimize body roll during cornering. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at all four wheels, coupled with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) for enhanced safety. The large tires (275/60 R20) provide good grip and contribute to the vehicle’s overall stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Infiniti QX56 was generally well-received by automotive critics, praised for its spacious interior, powerful engine, and comfortable ride. However, its fuel economy was often cited as a drawback, typical for a vehicle of its size and capability. Compared to the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator, the QX56 offered a more refined driving experience and a more understated exterior design. The QX56’s reliability was generally considered good, although some owners reported issues with the cooling system and the rear air suspension (if equipped). Fuel economy averaged around 15-18 mpg in combined driving, lower than some of its competitors.
Legacy
The 2007-2010 Infiniti QX56 remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly for buyers seeking a large, luxurious SUV with a powerful V8 engine. The VK56DE engine is known for its durability and relatively straightforward maintenance. While fuel economy is not its strong suit, the QX56 offers a compelling combination of space, comfort, and capability. Parts availability is generally good, and the vehicle’s robust construction ensures that many examples are still on the road today. The QX56 laid the groundwork for Infiniti’s subsequent forays into the full-size luxury SUV segment, establishing a reputation for quality and refinement.
