Lake Norman Infiniti

The all-new 2011 Infiniti QX56 has come to life at the 2010 New York Auto Show. Completely redesigned from the platform up, the SUV boasts an array of features and technologies for improved safety, comfort and performance.

Two models will be available when it goes on sale in the US this summer. One is a QX56 2WD and the other a QX56 4WD. They share a 5.6-litre V8 engine with Direct Injection Gasoline (DIG) technology and a 7-speed automatic transmission. Maximum power is 298kW (400bhp / 406PS) and torque is 413 lb-ft (600Nm). Infiniti says a 10% improvement in fuel economy can be expected over the previous-generation vehicle.

Exterior appointments include automatic on/off bi-functional xenon headlights with headlight washers, integrated front fog lights, an optional Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS), power-folding side mirrors, a power sliding tinted glass moon-roof, a power rear lift gate and LED rear lights.

It is 1.4 inches longer, 1.1-inches (28mm) wider and 3.8-inches (96.5mm) lower than its predecessor. Maximum towing capacity is 8,500 pounds (3,856kg) for both models. The standard wheels are 20-inch 7-spoke alloys with P275/60R20 all-season performance tires, but 22-inch, 9-spoke forged aluminum alloys with P275/50R22 can be had with a Deluxe Touring Package.

Inside it a features a standard 7-passenger seating arrangement, or an 8-passenger system with the 2nd row 60/40-split folding bench seat. Front leather seats have a heating and cooling climate control function.

The list of creature comforts is quite extensive, so we will only mention a few. These include an 8-inch touch-screen display, Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System with XM Nav-Traffic, Blue-tooth connectivity, a Bose 13-speaker sound system and a single in-dash CD/DVD player with MP3 playback.

Safety systems include Infiniti's Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Intelligent Cruise Control and the new Blind Spot Warning (BSW) system.

Prices for the 2011 Infiniti QX start at a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP)* of $56,700 USD for the QX56 2WD and $59,800 USD for the QX56 4WD. These prices are the same as the previous generation QX, despite added content.