Road trip luxury in Infiniti QX56

By G Chambers Williams III

Taking a long family trip with car full of kids can be a challenge if you don’t have the right vehicle. But that’s not a problem when your chariot is a big luxury SUV, like our tester for the week: the 2013 Infiniti QX56.This cavernous vehicle, whose name will be changing to QX80 under Infiniti’s new nomenclature scheme for 2014, is among the few remaining truck-style sport utilities on the market. But there’s still a market for the QX56, especially among people with big families and those with big trailers to pull.Just two versions are offered, in a single trim, with either two- or four-wheel drive. Prices for 2013 start at $61,350 (in the US) for the rear-wheel-drive model, and $63,750 for the go-anywhere four-wheel-drive version, which we tested for this report.This year Nissan added its advanced Moving Object Detection system as a standard feature on the QX. It works in conjunction with the vehicle’s Around View Monitor, one of the coolest features available on Infiniti vehicles.The object-detection system uses front and rear sonar to provide audible and visual warnings to the driver if, when starting to go forward or backward, there is a moving object in front or behind the vehicle.Moving objects are visible on the dash screen through the Around View Monitor, which combines the views from four super-wide-angle cameras — front, rear and both sides — to project a 360-degree view of the area around the vehicle, seemingly from overhead.Self-dimming outside mirrors are new this year, along with the Smoky Quartz exterior colour. Eight people can ride in a QX, unless it’s configured like the one we tested, which came with the optional seven-passenger seating arrangement. There were two comfortable captain’s chairs in the middle row rather than a three-person bench, which is a no-cost option.Optional safety features include the Blind Spot Intervention system that comes in the Technology Package ($3,000), which was included on our tester. It’s designed to alert the driver if there is a vehicle in the adjacent lane, and tries to prevent the vehicle from changing lanes if there is another car in the way.The package also includes intelligent cruise control, lane-departure warning and prevention, intelligent brake assist with forward collision warning, and adaptive bi-xenon high-intensity-discharge headlights with automatic levellingOur vehicle also came with the Deluxe Touring Package ($4,650), which added a hydraulic body-motion-control system, cooled front seats, upgraded leather interior, a 15-speaker Bose Cabin Surround Sound audio system, mocha burl wood interior trim, an advanced automatic climate control system, headlight washers, and illuminated vehicle entry.We had kids onboard, and they were kept entertained by the Theater Package ($3,100), which added a rear DVD player with two seven-inch screens in the backs of the front headrests, two pairs of wireless headphones, a remote control, a 120-volt power outlet, auxiliary audio/visual input jacks, second-row heated seats, and remote tip-up second seats.To dress the QX up a bit, we had the Tyre and Wheel Package ($2,450). It brought nine-spoke, 22-inch wheels and all-season tyres. The only other option (couldn’t have been much left on the list) on our tester was a cargo mat/first aid kit ($200).All of this added up to $78,145, but we could have done without most of the extras and we still would have had a well-equipped and quite functional vehicle. Although I prefer four-wheel drive, if you can do without it, you can cut the price down even more.With its first complete redesign two years ago, the QX56 no longer shares its chassis with the Nissan Armada, and it’s now made in Japan, rather than in Canton, Mississippi, where the original model was assembled. But there still are a lot of similarities between the two vehicles, although the QX is fancier.Both QX56 models are powered by a 5.6-litre V-8 engine with 400hp and 413 foot-pounds of torque, connected to a seven-speed automatic transmission. That’s plenty of power, even as loaded as we had ours. We gave it good workout, even driving though some pretty serious mountains.It’s a heavy vehicle — 5,595 pounds for the two-wheel-drive model, and 5,855 pounds for the four-wheel drive — but the ride is smooth and quiet, and the engine never seemed to strain, even on the mountain grades.The QX handles easily, too, considering its size. I don’t recommend it for serious trail-driving though, because it’s just too big to go through tight spots that can accommodate smaller off-roaders such as a Jeep Wrangler.Our QX came with the Black Obsidian exterior colour, and a very nice Wheat coloured leather interior. There is comfortable seating for everyone on board, even in the third row. I was amazed that I was never uncomfortable during 11 hours in the driver’s seat. The dual front captain’s chairs were living-room quality.Teenagers rode without complaint in the middle-row captain’s chairs, which can be quickly folded forward to allow access to the third row. While we didn’t use the third row on the trip to and from our destination, it was convenient at our vacation spot when we took other people with us out to dine or explore.Not using the third row for seating during the long drive freed up cargo space. There’s 16.5 cu ft of space behind the third seat, which wasn’t enough for us with beach supplies and other necessities for a long family trip. With the third seat folded (60/40 split, power fold), the cargo area opens up to cavernous size.EPA ratings are typical for this vehicle class — 14 mpg city/20 highway (with either rear- or four-wheel drive). On our trip, which was mostly highway driving, we averaged only about 15 mpg, though.For those with RVs, boats or horses, the QX is capable of pulling trailers weighing up to 8,500 pounds. We tortured the kids in the back with our selection of music from an iPhone connected to the outstanding Bose audio system, which includes 15 speakers strategically place throughout the vehicle. The iPod music functions of the iPhone can be controlled through the audio system, with playlists showing on the in-dash colour monitor.For aerodynamics, the QX has a front chin spoiler, rear liftgate spoiler and streamlined outside mirrors. It has a 0.37 coefficient of drag, and there is “zero lift” from air passing underneath, Nissan says.Among the standard features are 20-inch alloy wheels; LED taillights; heated/power-folding outside mirrors with integrated turn signals, courtesy lights and reverse tilt-down feature; body-colour running boards and integrated front and rear splash guards in the wheel arches; roof rails; a power/sliding/tinted glass moon roof; and a power rear liftgate.Optional adaptive self-levelling adaptive headlights are designed to move slightly in the same direction as the vehicle to provide illumination of the area into which the car is turning.The standard Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System includes a backup-camera along with the Around View Monitor system. While leather upholstery is standard, premium semi-aniline leather is included in the Deluxe Touring Package.The off-road-capable four-wheel-drive system has low-range gearing for hills, sand and mud on the trail. In automatic mode (high range only), the system can send up to half of the power to the front wheels; in normal mode, the rear wheels get the power. Both models come with Hill Start Assist, which prevents rollback when the vehicle is stopped on a hill and the driver releases the foot brake.Safety features include four-wheel antilock disc brakes with electronic brake-force distribution; electronic stability control; roof-mounted side-curtain air bags for all three rows; seat-mounted front side air bags; and tyre-pressure monitoring. — Fort Worth Star-Telegram/MCT* Price and technical details may vary in locally available models.In a nutshell

The package: Full-size, seven- or eight-passenger, five-door, rear- or four-wheel-drive, V-8 powered, premium sport utility vehicle.Highlights: The QX56 is a premium family hauler with lots of power, a smooth ride, and a long list of available high-tech features.Negatives: Can get quite pricey with all the extras.Engine: 5.6-litre V-8.Transmission: Seven-speed automatic.Power/torque: 400 HP./413 foot-pounds.Brakes, front/rear: Disc/disc, antilock.Length: 208.3 inches.Curb weight: 5,595 pounds (2WD), 5,855 pounds (4WD).Cargo capacity: 16.5 cu ft (behind third row).Electronic stability control: Standard.Side air bags: Front seat-mounted, three-row side curtain.Towing capacity: 8,500 pounds.Fuel capacity/type: 26 gallons/premium recommended, but not required.Major competitors: Chevrolet Suburban/GMC Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade, Lincoln Navigator, Ford Expedition, Audi Q7, Toyota Sequoia, Nissan Armada Platinum.On the Road rating: 9.3 (of a possible 10).autoQ & A

How good is recycled oil?

What is your take on 50% recycled oil? Stores are offering more of this oil. Is it just as good as new oil? Or should I stay with 100% new oil?As an oil “consumer” — meaning I buy and change my own oil — here’s my take on recycled oil. I’m absolutely sure it’s as good as 100% new oil, meets all of the Society of Automotive Engineers and American Petroleum Institute service ratings and standards, and provides equal protection and performance. But — and here’s where personal “baggage” comes into play — I’ll stick with new oil. The vehicles and engines I own are mine, I’m responsible for their maintenance and longevity, so I’ll continue to buy and use synthetic oil — the best oil available.For the relatively small difference in price, I’m simply more comfortable sticking with what’s worked for me for decades. At least until the price of recycled oil becomes so attractive that the Scrooge in me can’t resist.In August 2011 we purchased a 2012 Ford Fusion SEL to tow behind our motor home. We specifically asked the dealer what Ford products could be flat-towed as we did not want to deal with a tow dolly. We were told a Fusion would meet our needs. Six months later, an Owners Guide Supplement dated February 2012 came out saying that “Front-wheel drive vehicles CANNOT be flat-towed (all wheels on the ground) as vehicle or transmission damage may occur. The front wheels must be placed on a two-wheel tow dolly.”After finding out about this, we were told by the Ford dealer that we could continue to flat tow the vehicle and our 36-month warranty would cover any issues. We have already experienced a major tow-related problem with the transmission, which was repaired under warranty in March.Since we invested a substantial sum to outfit the car to be flat towed, we feel that the change in Ford’s position in the Owners Guide Supplement about this vehicle has substantially impaired the intended use of the vehicle. We also believe that the market value of the vehicle has been impacted if we decide we should sell it. Lastly, we feel that the safety of the vehicle has been severely compromised since we could have a major problem if the transmission should malfunction while we are towing it. Any advice?Space limitations forced me to leave out your comments on the “impaired use and loss of value” issues, which are valid concerns. But to the heart of the matter: Depending on the build date of your Fusion, Ford Technical Service Bulletin 12-11-5, dated November 2012, identifies which Fusion models with the 6F35 automatic transmissions can be flat towed with all four wheels on the pavement. The short version is these vehicles can be flat towed for no more than six hours at speeds of 65 miles per hour or less, if the transmission fluid level is set correctly, and if the engine is run every six hours to cool the transmission fluid.The issue is transmission fluid overheating and inadequate lubrication due to the fact that the transmission oil pump is not being driven by the running engine. This is always a concern when flat towing a vehicle with an automatic transmission and is why I’ve always recommended a tow dolly or trailer. Besides, the difference in wheelbase between the tow vehicle and towed vehicle can make sharp maneuvers difficult.In my opinion you have three choices: Use a tow dolly (my choice), buy or persuade Ford to extend the warranty long enough to cover your intended ownership, or trade the vehicle. The problem with trading is that you may well face the same situation unless the vehicle is fitted with a manual transmission or you can unlock the driven wheels from the drivetrain for towing. — By Paul Brand/Star Tribune/MCT