Description: Super-Size Luxury Sport Utility Vehicle
Base MSRP Range: $49,800 - $52,800
Invoice Price Range: $45,750 - $48,501
Where built: USA
The made-in-America QX56 is a super-size and ultra-luxury SUV stretching over 17 feet long. Despite the king-size dimensions and a huge engine in the firebox, Infiniti's SUV carries user-friendly mechanical hardware so it's surprisingly spry and easy to maneuver. Inside, there's room for up to eight on three tiers of leather-clad seats with buckets in front, a second row with bench or flip-forward buckets and a third-row bench that now splits 60/40 and folds into the floor to expand cargo space.
Powering the SUV is a 5.6-liter V8 generating 315 hp through a five-speed automatic transmission with tow/haul mode. Infiniti casts QX56 in one fully-equipped trim with RWD or AWD traction.
New standard gear for 2006 includes power folding exterior mirrors with heat elements and integrated turn signals. Options are minimal -- a sunroof, DVD-based video entertainment kit and satellite radio service.
Infiniti, the high-tech brand derived from Nissan of Japan, strengthens a 2006 line of luxury and performance cars with the re-do of mid-size M45 as a screamer sports sedan, while Q45 the flagship sedan spins off a new Sport model with Rear Active Steer (RAS) controls. In all, there are six distinct products in Infiniti's Class of 2006, each posed for high-powered action and packed with premium appointments.