The standard V-8 engine now puts out 80 more HP than the 2010 SUV.  With a torque output of 413 ft-pounds, the big 5.7 liter V-8 engine has a huge towing capacity of 8k pounds.  The new QX56 engine uses Nissan’s patented VVEL science which stands for Variable Valve Event and Lift.  The QX56 also employs the best transmission available from Nissan in the form of a trick 7-speed.  Infiniti put this science into the QX56 in order to raise the fuel economy numbers.  Infiniti estimates that the gas mileage will improvement to 13 MPG and 20 MPG.  Not bad for a full sized SUV.  The QX56 ranks at the top of the ladder for MPG in the full sized category.  The new QX56 can go over 250 miles between gas stops and the tank holds almost 30 gallons of fuel.

On the inside the QX56 can seat 7 or 8 passengers depending on the configuration.  There is plenty of interior space in the cabin of the SUV.  Be sure to get the 2nd row chairs instead of the bench seating.  There is also a center console in the rear.  The 2011 QX56 has plenty of televisions, air-vents, and room for all passengers.  On the back of the front passenger seats there are dual 7-inch TV’s.  The fresh 2011 Infiniti QX56 will also be a bit lighter than the old generation by about 100 pounds.

The newest SUV offering from Infiniti contains technologically advanced features.  One innovative and up-to-date Infiniti advancement is the Hydraulic Body Motion Control System.  This limits body roll while turning which is important in a full sized SUV.  Fluid fills the outside shock absorbers making the sport utility vehicle more steady.  Believe it or not this system keeps the SUV more stable than a BMW 5-series.

Infiniti’s dedication to safety is visible on the fresh QX56.   Traction Control is a key feature in keeping SUV safe from a roll over.  The traction control can send muscle to the wheels that need it.  Numerous systems overlap each other to create a large network of safety features.  On the inside the QX56 has a myriad of front and curtain side airbags for all passengers, even those seated in the rear of the SUV.  The Intelligent Brakes can automatically reduce speed if a collision is imminent. Pretty much all luxury vehicles today are equipped with some sort of lane departure warning system and the QX56 is one of these automobiles.  The intelligent cruise control adapts to follow the flow of traffic.   The blind spot warning alerts the driver ensuring safe lane changes.  The QX56 is a value at a little over $55,000 in the luxury sport utility vehicle segment.

The Acura ZDX will find its place in the Acura lineage somewhere between the sleek TSX Sedan and its bulkier SUV cousin, the MDX.  On the surface the ZDX is more “car” and less “SUV” with its low profile and long body style. Further exploration reveals a surprisingly high wheel base and sufficient cargo room common to an SUV. Luxurious natural grain leathers and high quality  embellishments grace the interior which surrounds a tall, stylish, center console.  Added elegance is courtesy of a panoramic moon roof comprised of two individual glass panels shielded by a tight fabric mesh which allows light into the cabin while eliminating UV rays and excessive heat.  Acura spent extra time reinforcing the cabin with sound deadening materials such as acoustic noise-absorbing mats and an active noise canceling feature in the audio system.   Under the carriage, wheel housing insulators and special tire tread where added to keep road noise to a minimum. The result is an ultra quiet and relaxing interior.

There will be three different ZDX versions to choose from the ZDX, ZDX Technology and ZDX Advance.   All will be powered by the 300-hp 3.7-liter VTEC ® V-6 Engine that can reach 60 mph in about 6.5 seconds.  Other standard features include a rearview camera, 19-inch wheels, Bluetooth connectivity and a 266-watt audio system with eight speakers. The ZDX Technology package includes a multi-view camera, real-time weather and traffic, navigation,  Satellite communications, keyless entry and a 435-watt audio package with ten speakers and a 15GB HDD.  The ZDX Advance includes all the extras of the Technology package as well as added adaptive cruise control, blind spot information system, active suspension, collision mitigation braking system, ventilated seats and a sport steering wheel.

Only time will tell if this new breed of crossover will gain the same popularity as those with which it will compete.  Acura is hopeful that their new offering will make a mark in the evolution of the SUV and has priced it competitively .  The new 2010 ZDX starts at $45,495 which is just a skosh more than the pricing of the 2009 Infiniti FX but well below the $56,000-$67,000 required to own a BMW X6.