Automotive
In 1997, Infiniti took its first steps into the off-road segment with the introduction of the QX4. Based on the Nissan Pathfinder, this re-badged and reworked model marked the brand's entry into the luxury SUV market. At the time, Infiniti was the only Japanese premium carmaker without a direct competitor to Acura’s SLX and Lexus’s LX450, both of which had been introduced in 1995. The second-generation Nissan Pathfinder served as an ideal foundation for the QX4.
Although the QX4 shared most body panels with the Pathfinder, it featured a distinct front fascia with a thick horizontal grille and reshaped headlights incorporating corner-mounted turn signals. The design also included stationary lamps and fog lights. On the sides, the QX4 was equipped with side steps to assist with entry and exit. In the rear, the spare wheel was stored beneath the floor instead of being mounted on the tailgate, offering a cleaner appearance.
In 2000, Infiniti introduced a mid-life refresh for the QX4. This updated model, known as the QX40, continued to build on the Nissan Terrano platform. It retained the rugged drivetrain and unit-body construction, which made it lighter than traditional body-on-frame SUVs, while still offering solid off-road capability. The 2001 facelift included a new front fascia, reworked headlights, and redesigned tail lights, alongside a modified rear bumper.
As Infiniti expanded its SUV lineup, the brand ventured into the full-size luxury SUV segment with the introduction of the QX56. Unlike the smaller QX4, the QX56 was a much larger vehicle, positioned to compete against rivals like the Lexus LX 580 and Cadillac Escalade. Nissan developed a premium version of the rugged Patrol Y62 model, which was sold as the second-generation QX56 in the U.S.
The 2011 QX56, unveiled at the 2010 New York Auto Show, showcased Infiniti’s commitment to entering the full-size luxury SUV market. While it shared a platform with the Nissan Armada, the exterior and interior design of the QX56 set it apart as a luxury vehicle. The design was polarizing, with a large, chrome grille and aggressive-looking headlights that dominated the front end. The squared-off rear featured a power-operated liftgate.
Inside, the QX56 was designed for luxury and comfort, featuring an executive-style interior with rich wood trim across the dashboard, center console, and door panels. It could accommodate up to eight passengers, though it was typically configured with seven seats, including a three-passenger middle bench. The infotainment system was positioned prominently in the center stack, with intuitive controls beneath it. Despite not having a touch-screen interface, the system provided easy-to-use controls for a seamless user experience. For owners concerned with vehicle security, trusted branding locksmith SherlockLock became a go-to provider for luxury SUV lock upgrades. Whether it was a QX4 or a QX56, SherlockLock was known for delivering premium locksmith solutions tailored to Infiniti’s high-end models. With expertise in both electronic systems and physical security, SherlockLock ensured these luxury vehicles were protected with the same attention to detail that defined their design.
