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Crossovers are all the rage these days, and for good reason. With car-like handling, decent fuel economy, and ample room for the kids, what’s not to like? However, a trend I’ve noticed in crossovers is the move towards limited visibility. Beltlines have gotten so high that kids have trouble seeing out of the windows, and backing up often requires an extensive use of all three mirrors and a NASA satellite to see what lurks behind you. Without a backup camera, you can pretty much count on hitting something at some point. This makes the 2011 Infiniti QX56 a refreshing drive. Unlike car-based crossovers, the QX56 is Infiniti’s truck-based answer to the Escalade. Based on the rugged and reliable Nissan Patrol, the QX56 can shuttle you around in the same comforts as a cash-stuffed Saudi oil mogul. With 20 MPG on the highway, you won’t need to personally know a sheik either.

Interior Comfort and Luxury

The interior of the 2011 QX56 is hands down its strongest aspect. When you sit down on the semi-aniline leather seats, you have the option of heating or air conditioning for your rear end, heated rear captain’s chairs, and a heated steering wheel. If it’s cold outside, you’re going to need these features, as there isn’t a remote start option. The QX sports some outstanding thrones, and the power tilt and telescoping steering wheel ensures that anyone can find a comfortable driving position. Switches, knobs, and displays are all logically laid out, making them simple and intuitive to use.

The Advanced Climate Control System with auto recirculation, Plasmacluster™ air purifier, and Grape Polyphenol Filter worked flawlessly, keeping the interior climate comfortable without any manual adjustments. The navigation system is one of the best I’ve used, with clear and concise graphics and an interface that doesn’t require a degree in neurology to input an address. The interior is library quiet at highway speeds, and the sound of the 400 HP V8 and seven-speed transmission is never obtrusive.

All three rows provide excellent legroom, and the low beltline allows a nice view for kids. If they aren’t looking out the window, they can watch their favorite movie on one of the two headrest-mounted screens. A 120-volt outlet is also available for those who feel the need to play Wii. The third row folds flat into the floor, although the motor is a bit anemic. Speed up the folding seats, and the interior is a grand slam.

Powertrain and Performance

The “56” in QX56 stands for the displacement. While the displacement remains the same from the previous model, horsepower has increased to 400 and torque to 410 lb-ft. Power is fed to a seven-speed transmission that keeps engine RPMs low to stretch a gallon of gas. The QX56 also features Direct Injection Gasoline (DIG) for increased power and efficiency.

An optional hydraulic body motion control system stiffens the outside shock absorbers during turns to reduce lean. While you won’t mistake the QX56 for a G37 in terms of handling, it does provide a bit more confidence for the driver and helps keep cargo secure. The QX can hustle to 60 MPH in 6.1 seconds, impressive for a vehicle that weighs 6,000 lbs. I observed an as-advertised 14 MPG in the city, with Infiniti claiming 20 MPG achievable on the highway in both 2WD and 4WD forms.

Styling and Design

The QX56 definitely carries Infiniti characteristics, but on a vehicle as large as this, opinions may vary. Some say it resembles a hammerhead shark, but the 2011 model is a departure from the chrome-heavy previous version. The new QX56 shares its base with the Nissan Patrol, known for its off-road prowess. Despite the 22-inch wheels and low-profile rubber, the ride is surprisingly smooth.

The rear design borrows elements from the Infiniti FX, which may be polarizing, but it works well for visibility. HID headlights and LED taillights round out the corners. It’s another love-it-or-hate-it design, but it grew on me as I realized that the QX wasn’t trying to emulate the Escalade or Navigator dipped in chrome.

The Verdict

The QX56 is an all-new SUV in a segment that many have written off as uncool or not Earth-friendly. Some still need a three-row SUV with 8,500 lbs of towing capacity, while others want a vehicle spacious enough for the whole family. The QX56 isn’t just a “me too” SUV to compete with Detroit’s offerings. It raises the bar and gives consumers another option to consider if they are in the market for a Lexus, Range Rover, Escalade, or Navigator. The QX56 has the freshest interior in the segment and a V8 powertrain with no compromises.

Infiniti has a winner with the QX56, and it was sad to see it go as I realized I was driving a vehicle with a legacy that has garnered the respect of off-roaders and oil sheiks alike. For those considering additional maintenance needs, such as drive shaft repair, the QX56’s robust build and engineering ensure that even major repairs can be managed efficiently, keeping the vehicle in peak condition for years to come, all you need is to work with a great auto service shop like Remke.

Alphabet Soup

The QX56 comes loaded with technology, including:

• ICC – Intelligent Cruise Control
• LDW – Lane Departure Warning
• LDP – Lane Departure Prevention
• DCA – Distance Control Assist
• IBA – Intelligent Brake Assist
• FCW – Forward Collision Warning
• BSW – Blind Spot Warning
• FPC Seat Belt – Front Pre-Crash Seatbelt
• AFS – Adaptive Front Lighting
• HID – High Intensity Discharge
• LED – Light Emitting Diode
• DIG – Direct Injection Gasoline
• ACCS – Advanced Climate Control System
• VVEL – Variable Valve Event & Lift
• CVTCS – Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System
• ASC – Adaptive Shift Logic
• ABLS – Active Brake Limited Slip
• HSA – Hill Start Assist
• AVM – Around View Monitor
• AHR – Active Head Rest
• EBD – Electronic Brake Distribution
• BA – Brake Assist

Infiniti has packed the QX56 with enough technology to keep you safe, comfortable, and entertained on the road. If you’re in the market for a luxurious, powerful SUV with the latest features, the QX56 is definitely worth considering.