Strengths

Serious truck underpinnings for towing and hauling; seating for up to eight; full gamut of luxury options

 

Changes

After its major overhaul in 2008, the 2009 Infinity QX56 sees only minor modifications adding to the QX56's already broad list of standard equipment.

 

Value

With its smooth and powerful V8, available low range 4-wheel-drive system and a fully boxed steel frame, the 2009 Infiniti QX56 pairs a luxurious, roomy, first-rate SUV interior with serious truck-like towing (up to 9,000 pounds) and hauling capability. With seating for up to eight and loads of standard; comfort, convenience, and safety equipment, the 2009 Infinity QX56 is a formidable opponent in the full-size luxury SUV market.

 

Overview

The 2009 Infiniti QX56 is powered by a 5.6L DOHC V8 engine making 320 horsepower and 393 lb-ft of torque, hooked up to a 5-speed automatic transmission. The engine has an aluminum block with cast-iron liners, molybdenum-coated pistons, a forged steel crankshaft and heavy-duty cooling system for durability. It is especially well-suited to towing or serious off-roading as it makes nearly 90 percent of its peak torque below 2,500 rpm.

Rear- and 4-wheel-drive versions of the QX56 are available. The 4WD models feature the so-called All-Mode system, which employs an electronically controlled part-time transfer case and low range. In the "Auto" mode, when extra traction is needed, the system can send up to 50 percent of engine torque to the front wheels.

With three rows of seating, the QX56 provides space for up to eight, while the power-folding third row folds flat easily when not in use.

The Infinity QX56 is a luxury leader in its class. Its impressive list of standard luxury includes features such as HID xenon automatic headlights, dual-zone automatic climate control with micro-filtration. A memory system remembers settings for the driver's seat, pedals, steering wheel and outside mirrors. Leather appointed seating for all three rows also heats the second row of seats. Other standard equipment includes an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, Homelink universal garage door opener and illuminated audio, cruise controls and Bluetooth technology.

In addition, the best way to take advantage of the QX56's amazingly quiet ride is with its Bose premium audio system with 24-bit Burr-Brown DAC. It includes an AM/FM stereo with XM satellite radio, a 9.3 gigabyte Music Box hard drive for music storage and playback a CompactFlash slot for playing MP3 or WMA music files, and 12-speakers including sub-woofer, amplifier, and third row audio.

The QX56 also includes a long list of standard safety features; including electronic stability control system, 4-wheel anti-lock brakes, active front head restraints, side-impact air bags with rollover protection for all rows as well. Rear parking sensors and rearview camera make parking easy. Auto-leveling air suspension helps maintain uniform ground clearance and departure angle when off-roading or towing.