A nip and tuck for this year isn't enough to ignore the wrinkles in the aging 2018 Infiniti QX80.
Pros Far more attractive than before V-8 is charming Beautiful interior upholstery Active safety features aren't expensive
Cons Traces roots back to 2010 and it shows No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto Still big and cumbersome despite tech Very poor fuel economy
As big as a luxury yacht and almost as opulent inside, the QX80 is Infiniti’s answer to the Cadillac Escalade. It’s built on a full-size truck frame and powered by a 400-hp 5.6-liter V-8 with a seven-speed automatic; rear-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is optional.
Pros Handsome visage, burly naturally aspirated V-8.
Cons Clumsy handling, heavy drinker, outdated and missing technology.
The 2018 QX80 receives a noticeable exterior makeover. New LED headlights, taillights and foglights complement redesigned front and rear bumpers and a rear tailgate. The QX80 also rides along restyled wheels wrapped in softer sidewall tires, which, along with a retuned suspension, are intended to improve ride comfort.
PROS Powerful V8 delivers strong acceleration and a high tow rating Capable and controlled handling for a big SUV Brakes deliver strong stopping power Easy to see out of
CONS Ride quality degrades with optional 22-inch wheels Third-row seat is difficult to access and a tight fit for adults Updated interior hasn't changed enough Engine is thirstier than most
The 2018 Cadillac XT5 ranked #19 in Luxury Midsize SUVs. Currently the Cadillac XT5 has a score of 7.9 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 30 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros High-class cabin styling and materials Composed highway cruiser Extensive list of advanced safety features available
Cons No meaty engines available Dull handling
Cadillac has changed next to nothing for 2018, introducing only a new optional exterior color: Harbor Blue Metallic (all of the XT5’s available paint colors, save for Radiant Silver Metallic, cost an additional $625 to $1225). The EPA has reduced highway fuel-efficiency ratings for both front- and all-wheel-drive variants, but there have been no actual mechanical updates. On the warranty front, last year’s four-year or 50,000-mile complimentary scheduled maintenance plan has been reduced to three years or 36,000 miles of coverage.
Pros Quiet interior, distinctive exterior styling, spacious cargo bay.
Cons Somewhat gruff V-6 powertrain, muddled driving dynamics, busy interior design.
The 2018 Cadillac XT5 is a solid luxury crossover, but so are its rivals. Shop carefully.
Pros Luxurious ride Strong V-6 engine Quality feel inside and out Good value at low end
Cons Gets expensive fast Forgettable personality Front-wheel-drive dynamics occasionally show through Some frustrating controls
