The 2009 QX56 is a 4-door, up to 8-passenger luxury sport-utility, available in two trims, the 2WD and the 4WD.

Upon introduction, the 2WD is equipped with a standard 5.6-liter, V8, 320-horsepower engine that achieves 12-mpg in the city and 18-mpg on the highway. The 4WD is equipped with a standard 5.6-liter, V8, 320-horsepower engine that achieves 12-mpg in the city and 17-mpg on the highway. A 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard on both trims.

The 2009 QX56 is a carryover from 2008.