2008 Infiniti QX56 Performance Review

While it may leave something to be desired in the "fun to drive" category, the 2008 Infiniti QX56 has some real guts. At least that's the general consensus among the reviews studied by experts at TheCarConnection.com.

Cars.com reports that "the [Infiniti] 2008 QX56 is powered by a 5.6-liter V-8 engine that produces 320 horsepower and 393 pounds-feet of torque," adding that "maximum towing capacity is 9,000 pounds when properly equipped"--impressive. When it comes to acceleration, ConsumerGuide remarks that "it's no neck snapper, but getaways and passing sprints are reasonably brisk for a big, heavy SUV," noting that "one test model suffered from a slightly touchy throttle, which caused it to lurch slightly from a stop." Edmunds attests, “The QX56 is quick for a full-size SUV, going from zero to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds,” and Automedia calls it “best in class acceleration.” Motor Trend comments that "the power of the 5.6L Endurance V-8 still impresses me...it feels every pound-foot of its 393 torque number."

Cars.com reports that the 2008 Infiniti's engine "drives a five-speed automatic transmission that features a tow/haul mode," and that "rear- and four-wheel-drive models are offered." Motor Trend notes that the "transmission is flexible and responsive enough, but the strong engine is probably better served with another gear or two. Still, it runs through the gears quickly and smoothly when you put your foot in it." Automedia observes, “Responses are instantaneous, with no perceptible hunting.”

The QX56 is no gas sipper. As Edmunds points out, "thanks to that muscular V8, the QX is voracious at the gas pump...As is typical for this class of vehicle, gas mileage is poor, with 12 mpg city and 17/18 mpg highway using the EPA's revised 2008 testing regimen." To add insult to injury, ConsumerGuide reports "Infiniti recommends premium-grade gas."

Still, Edmunds acknowledges that the Infiniti QX56 "is one of the better full-size luxury SUVs on the market in terms of acceleration and agile handling," with "impressive balance of ride and handling," thanks to the QX56's "fully independent suspension." ConsumerGuide reports that the Infiniti QX56 "is a tad smoother than [the]Armada, but rough roads still induce some shuddery jiggle," noting that it is "big-truck ponderous," but "capable on winding roads within its limits." Kelley Blue Book points out that "the QX56's tall profile and curb weight of nearly three tons can elicit considerable body roll during really brisk cornering or transition maneuvers," but Autoblog says that "even with substantial cargo, the independent self-leveling rear suspension kept the attitude of the QX56 constant," adding that "four wheel disc brakes stopped us quickly and confidently."