2021 Infiniti QX80

History/Overview

Infiniti’s most luxurious vehicle is the QX80, a full-size SUV that shares its architecture with the Nissan Armada SUV and that brand’s Titan full-size pickup truck model. Infiniti launched the second-generation model in 2010 (when it was still called the QX56) and has refreshed it twice since then.

What’s New/Key Changes From Last Year

For 2021, the range-topping Limited trim level is gone. That contrasts with the U.S. market’s addition of new trims for this year, which probably reflects that market’s larger appetite for large SUVs.

Available Trims

Infiniti offers the QX80 in Luxe and ProActive trim levels, the latter of which can be optioned with a seven-passenger interior as an alternative to the standard eight-seat setup. All QX80 models are powered by a 5.6L V8 engine matched with a seven-speed transmission and AWD.

Standard Features

Among the exterior and mechanical features included in Luxe trim are a self-leveling rear suspension, auto on/off LED headlights, headlight washers, a power tailgate, power-folding/auto-dimming/heated side mirrors, 20-inch wheels, passive keyless entry, welcome lighting, and remote engine start.

Inside, there’s a sunroof, leather upholstery, 10- and eight-way power driver and front passenger seats with heat and ventilation, a heated steering wheel with leather trim, heated second-row seats, push-button engine start, three-zone climate control, power steering column adjustments, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.

Tech features include Bluetooth with smartphone integration, dual 8.0-inch and 7.0-inch touchscreen control displays, navigation, satellite radio, a 17-speaker stereo, USB charging ports, and a rear-seat entertainment system.

QX80’s standard driver safety assist package comprises rain-sensing wipers, lane departure warning, forward collision warning with automatic braking, and blind spot monitoring.

ProActive trim adds 22-inch wheels and tires, a smart rearview mirror, a hydraulic body motion control system, climate control filtration, intelligent cruise control, backup collision intervention, blind spot collision intervention, lane departure prevention, distance control assist, and adaptive headlights.

Fuel Economy

Infiniti’s fuel consumption estimates for the QX80 are 17.6/12.2 L/100 km (city/highway).

Competition

The QX80 puts Infiniti in the same arena as the Mercedes-Benz GLS, BMW’s X7, and Audi’s Q7. Other competitors are the Cadillac Escalade (and the nearly-as-posh GMC Yukon Denali), and the Lincoln Navigator. Finally, you could also shop the QX80 against the Volvo XC90, and the Land Rover Range Rover and Range Rover Sport.