By Mauricio Lezcano / carsntravel.com
The 2012 Infiniti QX56 is one of the most luxurious vehicles available in the category of sports utility vehicles, combining ruggedness and capability with grace and elegance. From its previous model year, the 2012 QX56 continues to carry over its characteristic strength and charisma seemingly effortlessly.
The second generation engine and transmission designs deliver a combination of power, efficiency and refinement. The 5.6-liter 32-valve DOHC aluminum-alloy V8 features Infiniti’s advanced VVEL technology and new Direct Injection Gasoline system. The engine is rated at 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque.
All 2012 QXs come equipped with a standard 7-speed automatic transmission with Adaptive Shift Control and manual shift mode with Downshift Rev Matching. The QX is offered in rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive, with the 4WD model featuring Infiniti’s proven All-Mode 4WD system with Auto, 4H and 4L modes. The system is designed to distribute torque to all four wheels when road conditions warrant, helping to enhance traction.
The QX’s interior offers a comfortable space and personal controls for every occupant. It features standard 7-passenger seating capacity, with 8-passenger capacity available with the 2nd row 60/40-split folding bench seat. The driver’s seat is 10-way power adjustable, including 2-way power lumbar support. It features a standard dual occupant memory system for the driver’s seat, steering wheel and outside mirrors. The front passenger’s seat is 8-way power adjustable, including 2-way power lumbar support. Heated front seat are standard, with available climate controlled front seats and heated 2nd row seats.
Among the QX’s available premium entertainment and technology features are an 8-inch WVGA color touch screen display, Infiniti Controller for use with vehicle information systems, comfort and convenience features. Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System is standard, as is the convenient Around View Monitor with Front and Rear Sonar System.
The available Theater Package features dual 7-inch color monitors, two pairs of wireless headphones, wireless remote control, auxiliary input jacks and 120V power outlet. The QX allows playback of games or movies in the rear, while front occupants listen to audio all at the same time. The two 7-inch color monitors include an auto bright system that adjusts for daytime, clouds/evening and night/tunnel lighting.
The 2012 Infiniti QX again offers a range of advanced technology systems. The QX includes both Infiniti’s Lane Departure Warning and Lane Departure Prevention systems. The LDW and LDP systems use a small camera installed behind the windshield to detect lane markers in front of the vehicle, calculate its position relative to those lane markers and help warn the driver of a potential unintended lane departure with a visual indicator and audible buzzer.
A Blind Spot Warning system is also available. It illuminates an indicator light if another vehicle is detected in the blind spot area. If the driver then activates the turn signal, the indicator flashes and an audible warning sound. The newly available Blind Spot Intervention system provides selective braking if the vehicle approaches and adjacent lane while another vehicle is detected in the blind spot area to help the driver return the vehicle back toward the center of the lane of travel.
Infiniti QX56 competitors in the full-size luxury SUV market are, Lexus LX570, Mercedes-Benz GL class, Land Rover’s LR4 and Cadillac Escalade. If you are in the market for a full-size SUV and you want to be surrounded by luxury features and some of the most sophisticated technology. The 2012 Infiniti QX56 is an excellent choice in a small field of competitors.
The Manufacturer’s suggested Retail Base Price is $61,800.00. The EPA fuel economy estimates 14 MPG city and 20 MPG highway. mlezcano@carsntravel.com
