Trying to win acceptance into the clique ruled by such luxury behemoths as the Cadillac Escalade, the 2005 Infiniti QX56 combines V8 engine power, a spacious interior with 42 inches of legroom for first and second rows, all-wheel-drive confidence, and a long list of upscale, high-end equipment. The full-size QX56 comes in either rear-wheel or all-wheel drive with a 315-hp, 5.6-liter V8 and 5-speed shiftable automatic. All trims sport ample safety features, such as traction and stability control, 4-wheel disc and ABS brakes, a tire-pressure monitor, 18-inch wheels, side impact bars, and dual front-side and side curtain airbags for all three rows. New for 2005 is a standard rearview camera for parking assistance and active head restraints for the front passenger. The 2005 QX56 holds seven or eight passengers, depending on whether you choose the standard removable captain's chairs in the second row or the optional bench seat. The third-row bench folds flat, expanding the cargo area from 20 to 61 cubic feet, the front passenger seat folds for long items, and a standard roof rack offers more storage capacity. Towing power maxes out at 9,000 pounds. All this utility doesn't mean luxury trappings are forgotten, with standard heated leather seats in the first two rows, power front seats with driver's memory settings, a navigation system, and cruise control. Optional intelligent cruise control maintains a fixed distance from the car in front of you. The requisite optional DVD player will help maintain a fixed distance between you and your kids. Roominess and V8 power stand out in the 2005 QX56, and drivers appreciate the rearview camera. However, this SUV has had its share of major problems, primarily with front brake wear. Drivers report constant brake repair every 4,000 miles. Interior dash rattles are annoying, and the navigation system strikes some as overly complicated. Its 13/19 mpg is about what you'd expect with this size SUV, so although drivers wish for a better rating, they're not surprised.