The 2017 Infiniti QX80 ranks 4 out of 8 Luxury Large SUVs. Despite a few weaknesses, the 2017 Infiniti QX80's strong performance, low base price, and elegant, well-equipped interior should meet your needs. However, it has the same disadvantage as most large SUVs: a cramped third row. Many of its rivals also use less fuel.
Pros Large cargo area Easy-to-use infotainment system High-quality interior Exciting acceleration
Cons Cramped third row Poor fuel economy
The 2017 Infiniti QX80's handling and fuel economy suffer for its size and weight, but it combines power, seating for eight, and towing capability in a luxurious package. The Infiniti QX80 is full-size traditional body-on-frame SUV that competes at the high end of the market. Formerly known as the QX56, the QX80's mechanicals might no longer be in vogue. All three models—QX80, QX80 AWD, and QX80 Limited—offer seating for up to eight and big V-8 power. A top rival for the Cadillac Escalade, the QX80 is the best Infiniti SUV to date and is superior to at least a few of its competitors.
Pros An upscale cabin Tough off-roading ability A genuine SUV Strong powertrain performance
Cons Finger-light steering Very thirsty Oversize front end a turnoff to some Gaudy fender vents
For some shoppers, a minivan just doesn't have the right capabilities. Even large, crossover-based SUVs won't do the trick. That's where hulking three-row, luxury vehicles such as the 2017 Infiniti QX80 come into play. With real towing power, high-quality interior appointments and a big-SUV attitude, the QX80 can shuttle your whole crew, and it can do it with style.Trailer sway control is now standard across the lineup. In-car Wi-Fi is now part of the optional Theater Package.
Pros Well-trimmed cabin that looks and feels truly luxurious Powerful V8 delivers strong acceleration and a high tow rating Tightly controlled handling that makes it feel smaller from behind the wheel
Cons Third-row seat is a tight fit for adults Ride quality gets choppy with optional 22-inch wheels
The GLS-Class officially makes its debut for 2017, though it's really a slightly revised version of the outgoing GL-Class. Highlights include modified exterior styling, a newly standard nine-speed automatic transmission (except on the AMG GLS 63) and a touchpad-operated infotainment system with a larger screen and available Apple CarPlay. Also, all engines except the GLS450's turbocharged V6 get a bit more horsepower this year.
Pros Third row is large enough for adults Spirited acceleration with any of the three gasoline engines Impressive fuel economy with the diesel engine Quiet cabin with high-end trimmings and features.
Cons Diesel-powered model feels relatively slow when passing and merging Big price jump from the six-cylinder models to the V8-powered versions.
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS gets the first-class upgrade along with its name change—and a Maybach edition is waiting in the wings. The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class marks a significant, mid-cycle upgrade for what was previously knew as the GL-Class. As part of a nomenclature change sweeping the entire brand, each of the German luxury maker's sport-utility vehicles has received new badging and a full or partial makeover to bring the lineup into more obvious parallels with its sedans—so this large, three-row SUV becomes the GLS, to align it with the largest S-Class sedan. Hence the S in its new name.
Pros Spacious, flexible interior Rugged-lux, with some added panache Great set of safety, infotainment features
Cons Not an entirely new vehicle Some switchgear looks dated Cumbersome COMAND interface
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class ranks 1 out of 8 Luxury Large SUVs. The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLS hits most of the right notes for a large SUV. It boasts a supple ride, three powerful engine choices, three rows of roomy seats, and the same level of luxury that has come to be synonymous with the brand. However, the GLS has fewer standard features than many rivals do, and its available V8 engines are less fuel-efficient than those offered by many competitors.
Pros Powerful engine lineup Smooth ride Three rows of spacious seats
Cons Fewer features than some rivals V8 engines get subpar fuel economy
