Infiniti QX56 is serious SUV

The introduction of a new, full-size luxury SUV is a serious endeavor these days. For one, it alerts consumers that the automaker is willing to go in an ever-expanding segment, but one that also faces controversy.

More important, however, is that today in the face of stiff competition, it brings to light a manufacturer’s capability to provide a luxurious experience in a trucklike vehicle. Infiniti’s contribution to this restraint-free market is the QX56, a new-for-2004, eight-passenger model that was developed alongside the all-new Nissan Pathfinder Armada.

The QX56 is indeed large. At 61/2 feet tall and more than 17 feet long, the all-new model seats up to eight riders in three rows. Curb weight is a tad more than 5,000 pounds for the 4x2 version and 5,631 for the four-wheel-drive model. To haul the mass around, Infiniti employs the 5.6-liter V-8 Endurance engine that also serves the Nissan Pathfinder Armada and new Titan pickup. Horsepower is 315 at 4,900 rpm and torque is rated at 390 foot-pounds at 3,600 rpm, with nearly 90 percent of that torque available below 2,500 rpm. Plenty of low-end torque, along with its five-speed automatic transmission, makes it a more sprightly sprinter and a more hefty hauler, with some 8,900 pounds of towing capacity.

Other notable drivetrain features include Vehicle Dynamic Control, an Active Brake Limited-Slip differential, four-wheel discs with ABS, power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering, a choice of two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive (up to 50 percent of available torque can go up front), and auto-leveling independent rear suspension. This suspension system maintains a consistent ride height using adjustable air chambers, especially useful in towing and off-pavement driving.

While enhanced towing and backcountry capability are respectable attributes, most potential buyers are more likely to consider those features meant to coddle, convenience, and even spoil them. We’re talking about those luxury features synonymous with Escalade, Navigator and Range Rover.

Step inside this SUV’s interior and you’ll see that Infiniti has sought to provide an atmosphere of elegance. Sojourner leather-appointed seats, extra-thick carpeting, genuine Dark Macore or Blond Apaya wood trim, and brushed aluminum accents interact with one another to create a plush, comfortable and attractive environment, with both natural and synthetic highlights. Seating is arranged in a 2-2-3 configuration with fold-flat second-row and third-row units. A bench in the middle is also available, and stretches capacity to eight. The front seats are heated and the driver’s can be adjusted in 10 directions, and the passenger’s, eight. Middle-row seats are also heated (when buckets are ordered), and a removable center console between the captain’s chairs increases storage capacity. The third row is not forgotten, as Infiniti has elevated the rear bench to enhance rear occupants’ forward view.

Aside from the general layout, several other interior features contribute to the QX56’s air of elegance. The dash is decorated with Fine Vision instrumentation, a signature Infiniti analog clock, a DVD-based navigation (7-inch LCD screen), a six-disc in-dash CD player, and dual zone climate controls. Infiniti also addresses the climate in back, providing separate air-conditioning controls and a rear heater duct. Adjustable pedals ease operation for shorter drivers, and the bother that sometimes occurs when traveling with children is mitigated by the optional DVD Family Entertainment System. In addition, Intelligent Cruise Control (which keeps a fixed distance behind another vehicle) and a Rear View Monitor (this screen allows you to see behind when the reverse gear is engaged) keep the QX56 out of harm, both fore and aft.

Advanced electronics also migrate to the exterior, as the QX56 enjoys xenon headlights, LED taillights, a power-operated liftgate, heated side mirrors, privacy glass, power sunroof, and power-operated rear quarter windows. Chromed wheels, wheel lip moldings, door handles and mirrors offer instant visual flair.

A high-end SUV is expected to provide generous power, elegant gadgetry and a convenient blueprint, but is also responsible for offering the luxury of advanced safety. Infiniti answers its duty, providing dual-stage frontal air bags with occupant sensing, standard side-impact curtain air bags for all three rows, additional supplemental, seat-mounted air bags for front positions, and three-point belts at all spots. Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, Electronic Brake Force Distribution and Brake Assist work together to prevent the many air bags from ever actually seeing active duty.