Specs: 400 horsepower, 5.6-liter V-8

The Infiniti QX56 (about $56,700) is powered by a direct-injected, 400-horsepower, 5.6-liter, V-8 engine that offers a 10 percent improvement in fuel economy over last year's model thanks to its new pairing with a seven-speed automatic transmission.

Redesigned for 2011, this full-size SUV seats up to eight in three rows, though the third row will be tight for some passengers. Slightly longer and wider than the previous model, the QX56 comes well-equipped with standard features such as leather upholstery, power and heated front seats, a power-reclining third-row seat that folds flat into the floor, active front head restraints, antilock brakes and electronic stability control as well as front-impact, side-impact and side-curtain air bags with rollover sensors. It comes in rear- or four-wheel drive and can tow up to 8,500 pounds.