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Cons Clumsy handling, heavy drinker, outdated and missing technology.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
Infiniti has reconfigured the QX80 lineup to include a new mid-range Premium Select trim and a high-end Sensory model for 2021. It also added standard driver-assistance features such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The QX80 Premium Select wears unique styling elements, including dark-chrome exterior trim, 22-inch wheels, and matte-brown interior embellishments with either a Sahara Stone or Truffle Brown color scheme.
Pros Handsome styling, standard V-8 power, plush and spacious cabin.
Cons Seems outdated compared with rivals, Nissan Armada is almost as luxurious, poor fuel economy.
The 2021 Infiniti QX80's #9 ranking is based on its score within the Luxury Large SUVs category. Currently the Infiniti QX80 has a score of 6.7 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 67 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Burly V8 engine Surefooted handling Large cargo area
Cons Below-average predicted reliability Snug third-row seats Dated interior
Standard safety aids now include adaptive cruise control and lane departure mitigation.Revised trim levels.
Pros Powerful V8 engine delivers strong acceleration and a high tow rating Commendable handling and braking for a big SUV
Cons Interior design lags behind luxury competition Engine is thirstier than others in the class Optional 22-inch wheels can make for a poor ride
