2009 Infiniti QX56

NEW FOR 2009:

- Standard automatic door locks

- Passenger side auto-dimming mirror deleted

- Compass moves from the rearview mirror to the navigation system monitor

- Exterior colour: Deep Garnet added

Following an update for 2008, the Infiniti QX56 is unchanged for 2009, save for minor changes to its list of standard features.

Named for its 5.6-litre V8 engine, mated to a five-speed automatic transmission, the QX56 is a luxury version of the Nissan Armada, itself based on the Titan pickup truck. Its four-wheel drive uses a part-time transfer case, with settings for rear-wheel, 4-High and 4-Low. It has three rows of seats which can be ordered in seven- or eight-passenger configuration for the same price.

The QX56 comes in a single trim line and includes 20-inch chromed alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic front climate control, second-row climate control, skid plates, auto-levelling rear suspension, tire pressure monitoring system, automatic xenon headlamps, fog lamps, privacy glass, speed-sensitive variable intermittent wipers, intermittent rear wiper, power-folding heated mirrors with auto-dimming driver's side, puddle lamps and integrated turn signals, front and rear splash guards, power sunroof, chrome-plated roof rack side rails, ten-way driver and eight-way passenger power heated leather seats, heated fold-flat second-row seats, power-folding 60/40 split third-row seat, heated leather-wrapped wheel with audio controls and power tilt, Burr-Brown CD/MP3 stereo with 9.3 GB Music Box, XM satellite radio, navigation system, rear audio controls, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, rear-seat DVD entertainment system, auto up/down front windows, auto up rear windows, power rear vent windows, power-adjustable pedals, power locks, power liftgate, Intelligent Key, intelligent cruise control, and towing package.

The only available option is the second-row split-bench seat for eight-passenger seating.

Although it's stuffed with luxury features, the QX56's handling and ride are tied to its pickup truck roots, which can be at odds with its upscale badge. It's big enough that all three rows of seats are viable, even for adults in the very back row. Its size and thirst, in combination with the downturn in the auto industry, make for a very deep discount when compared to its MSRP for 2008.