2009 Infiniti QX56: Road Test
2009 Infiniti QX56 ▼
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- MSRP: $55,050 - $58,150
- Invoice: $50,806 - $53,662
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Our road test for the 2009 Infiniti QX56 includes a full evaluation of the 2009 Infiniti QX56 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2009 Infiniti QX56, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2009 Infiniti QX56 help you decide if a 2009 Infiniti QX56 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 4WD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.8 |
QX56 weighs more than a comparable Nissan 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 a bit from a stop.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 4WD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 1 | 2.5 |
Thirsty, even among premium large SUVs. In Consumer Guide testing, a 4WD QX56 averaged just 12.7 mpg in city and highway driving. Infiniti recommends premium-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| 4WD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.2 |
Rough roads induce some shuddery jiggle, though QX is a bit smoother overall than Armada. The Infiniti smothers most small bumps well and stays reasonably flat over large swells.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 4WD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 3 | 4.1 |
Big-truck ponderous, especially in close quarters. Straight-line stability is very good, but the steering lacks feel on center. Braking control is fine for such a large vehicle.
QUIETNESS
| 4WD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.9 |
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 |
Most controls have a similar arrangement to Infiniti's G midsize cars, and that's a good thing. Most functions are intuitive and clearly marked, though a few buttons are a stretch for either driver or passenger to easily operate. The navigation system is easy to program and incorporates few audio and no climate controls.
DETAILS
| 4WD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 7.6 |
Models tested showed good assembly quality. 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 all help get the driver properly situated. 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 those on rival large SUVs.
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 nothing special for shape or 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 anyone but children.
CARGO ROOM
| 4WD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 9 | 8.5 |
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. Folding the 2nd row requires rotating the seat cushions, then dropping the seatbacks--not the most convenient system. Numerous bins, pockets, and beverage holders create very good overall interior storage.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 4WD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 5.3 |
This big rig doesn't trounce its key competitors any more than does the less-expensive Nissan Armada upon which it's based. QX56 is a capable, albeit thirsty, SUV that also boasts the promise of kid-gloves customer service associated with a premium brand.
Total Score
| 4WD Base | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 63 | 68.5 |
Total Score: 63
Scores for all Premium Large Sport-utility Vehicles
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