Infiniti's Ugliest V8 SUV Is Worth A Second Look Now That It's Worth Less Than A Nissan Kicks

When Infiniti launched the first-generation QX56 back in 2004, the idea was to capture a slice of the growing large SUV pie from well-established American luxury SUV manufacturers, including Cadillac, Jeep, and Lincoln. The second-generation QX56 launched for the 2011 model year after making rounds at global auto shows during the winter 2010 season. Totally redesigned, it would go on to sell for fourteen years before being replaced by an all-new model for 2025.

Long-running V8-powered Japanese ladder-frame SUVs like this are trendy in some circles, and you can pick up a second-generation QX56 (which was renamed to QX80 for 2014) for about the same price as a new Nissan Kicks. That doesn't necessarily mean you should. Below, we'll look back at Infiniti's flagship 4x4, what you might pay for one today, and what you need to know to make the smartest purchase decision possible.

The Life and Times Of The Second Generation Infiniti QX56 / QX80

2011-2013 Infiniti QX56

The first copies of the all-new second-generation QX56 started hitting dealers in the summer of 2010. Compared to its 2004-2010 predecessor, the second-generation machine was stiffer, stronger and more comfortable. Standard equipment included an around-view monitor, BOSE stereo, and a hard-drive navigation system-- and the optional equipment list was extensive.

Optional Equipment (2011 Infiniti QX56)

• Hydraulic Body Motion Control (to reduce body lean while cornering)
• 22-inch wheels and tires
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
• Lane Departure Prevention (LDP)
• Blind Spot Warning (BSW) system
• Intelligent Cruise Control
• Distance Control Assist (DCA)
• Intelligent Brake Assist with Forward Collision Warning (FCW)

Infiniti underwent a renaming strategy in the mid-2010s, and many model names were changed as a result. The QX56 was one of them. It was called the QX56 up until 2013, but the 2014 model arrived with a QX80 name badge and a major makeover to kick off this chapter of its life. New lights, wheels, colors, and trimmings were added to help re-ignite interest and drive sales increases.

Another update came for 2017 with tweaked exterior styling that was more modern and alert. Then in 2022, Infiniti started shipping the QX80 with an all-new touchscreen display and infotainment interface, as well as revised switches. That would round out the changes through to the end of the 2024 model year when this generation QX was retired-- along with its 5.6-liter V8 engine, may it rest in peace.

Here's How Capable It Is

2023 Infiniti QX80 Gray Rear Angled View

The powered-up V8 got a slew of revisions that improved power output and performance over earlier versions of the engine. Compared to the outgoing V8, the new unit's advanced valve timing tech and direct fuel injection helped create 25% more power using 14% less fuel-- a win-win for shoppers.

A new seven-speed automatic transmission helped further improve efficiency and performance while polishing the power delivery. Look for two or four-wheel drive, the latter with low-range gearing to fully leverage the big V8 engine's torque when required. The 8,500-pound towing capacity applies to both 4x2 and 4x4 models.

You've got faster, more powerful and more fuel-efficient options in this pricing universe, - though the Infiniti QX80's engine and driveline are an asset to many owners. Specifically, the QX's engine, structure and driveline are familiar and proven from use in various other models under the Nissan family umbrella. This means it should be relatively easy to maintain your QX and find replacement parts just about anywhere you might live. Many second-hand SUV shoppers actively seek out adventurous 4x4 models like this one with non-turbo, non-hybrid engines for their ease of servicing and care, as well as a reputation for durability.

Main Reasons To Consider the QX56 / QX80

2011-2013 Infiniti QX56

One of the main reasons to consider a used QX56 or QX80 from this generation is its combination of luxury, capability and space for the dollar. If you're after a 4x4 with 3 seating rows, a very comfortable drive, and enough power to handle frequent towing, and if you've got qualms about this machine's polarizing looks, then the second-hand pricing looks pretty appealing.

With less than 100,000 miles on the odometer, plenty of used units are available for $16,000 or less. For about $30,000, you'll find plenty of units with a sub-50,000-mile odometer reading, and if you've got $40,000 to spend, you're looking at a used QX80 with a sub-30,000-mile odometer reading and some remaining warranty.

Add in the strong towing capacity and roomy cabin with 3 seating rows, and you've got a luxurious family hauler and towing rig that's ready to grow with you and yours.

Before You Buy

2015 Infiniti QX80 5.6L NA VK56VD V8 Engine

It's important to understand a few key considerations before you buy. Key among these is the QX80's fuel costs. As a reference point, a 2025 Nissan Kicks with AWD has an annual gas bill of $1,600 according to the EPA. A 2022 Honda CR-V uses about the same. A Ford Explorer with 3-liter turbo engine and four-wheel drive uses $2,350 and a Toyota Highlander Hybrid uses $1,350. The QX80 with four-wheel drive? That'll suck back $4,050 a year worth of premium unleaded. Make sure you'll benefit from the size and capability and power, as you'll be paying for it at the pumps.

Also, keep the QX's size in mind. Easily described as large and in charge, shoppers coming here from a compact crossover or small sedan should consider the size of their parking spaces at home and at work, as well as the overhead height of any parking structures they visit regularly. If the indoor parking situation where you live is tight, you may have to park outside instead.

With no less than 5 cameras and 3 radar units on board, the top-dog QX is loaded with flagship-level tech, which can come with a flagship-level repair bill in the event of any issues. Check the unit you're considering carefully for damage to front and rear bumpers, as well as the windshield, each of which shields delicate cameras and safety sensors hidden beneath. Damage or misalignment of any of these parts can cause malfunctions. So can a weak or dying battery, so be sure to use a trickle charger when you won't be driving your QX for extended periods.