2008 Infiniti QX56: Road Test
2008 Infiniti QX56 ▼
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- MSRP: $52,250 -$55,350
- Invoice: $47,997 -$50,838
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Our road test for the 2008 Infiniti QX56 includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Infiniti QX56 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Infiniti QX56, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Infiniti QX56 help you decide if a 2008 Infiniti QX56 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 4WD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.9 |
QX56 weighs several hundred pounds more than Armada. It's no neck snapper, but getaways and passing sprints are reasonably brisk for a big, heavy SUV. One test model suffered from a slightly touchy throttle, which caused it to lurch slightly from a stop.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 4WD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 1 | 2.4 |
A test 4WD QX56 averaged just 12.7 mpg in city/highway driving. Infiniti recommends premium-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| 4WD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.4 |
QX56 is a tad smoother than Armada, but rough roads still induce some shuddery jiggle. This Infiniti smothers most small bumps and stays reasonably flat over large swells.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 4WD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4.2 |
Big-truck ponderous, especially in close quarters, but QX56 is capable on winding roads within its limits. Straightline stability is very good, but some of our testers say the steering lacks sharp on-center feel.
QUIETNESS
| 4WD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.8 |
Extra sound insulation makes QX56 a bit quieter than Armada, but the engine still roars during full-throttle acceleration. Tire thrum intrudes on coarse pavement, but wind rush is subdued.
CONTROLS
| 4WD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.9 |
Infiniti revised the interior design to this large SUV's benefit. Many controls are similar to that of the company's G midsize sedan, and that's a good thing. Most controls are intuitive and clearly marked, though a few buttons are a stretch for either driver or passenger to easily reach. The navigation system is easy to program and incorporates few audio and no climate functions.
DETAILS
| 4WD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 7.4 |
Again, the revised interior design works in QX56's favor. Assembly quality is very good. Many padded surfaces and soft-touch materials are fitting of this SUV's premium pricing.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 4WD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 9 | 8.6 |
Occupants ride high on wide, supportive seats with ample headroom and legroom. The included power-adjustable seat, pedals, and power tilt steering column are boons for driver comfort. Visibility is generally good, but QX56's tall stance hides close-by objects. The rearview camera helps, but it's more susceptible to collecting road grime than rival systems.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 4WD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 7.1 |
Running boards help mitigate the lofty step-in but not the high-mounted outer door handles or narrow entryway. Space in the 2nd row is bountiful, but the seats are ordinary for shape and comfort. The 2nd-row seats tilt up for easier access to the 3rd row, but flipping the seats is an awkward, multi-step process. Space in the 3rd row is tight for adults.
CARGO ROOM
| 4WD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 9 | 8.5 |
There's only grocery-bag space behind the 3rd row seat, plus modest under-floor storage. The split 3rd-row backrests power fold down to extend the load deck. The 2nd row requires rotating the seat cushions, then dropping the seatbacks. Numerous bins, pockets, and beverage holders create very good small-item storage.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 4WD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 5.3 |
Infiniti's reworking of the QX56 brings its interior decor in line with other premium-class competitors. Still, this big rig doesn't trounce its key competitors any more than does the less-expensive Nissan Armada on which it is based. This is a capable SUV that also boasts the promise of kid-gloves customer service associated with a premium brand.
Total Score
| 4WD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 64 | 68.5 |
Total Score: 64
Scores for all Premium Large Sport-utility Vehicles
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