2021 Infiniti QX80 

By Isaac Bouchard 

The QX80 is a more luxurious version of the tough-as-nails Nissan Patrol, used by the United Nations, and seen in videos from some of the harshest environments on Earth. It plays the same roll in Infiniti’s lineup as the LX570 does in Lexus’: i.e. a flagship SUV that can also survive the Apocalypse. It looks modern and muscular since a redesign in 2018 and annual updates have helped keep it competitive. The QX80 cockpit is beautifully built of uniformly high quality materials in a way that the Ford Expedition—even in its top models—isn’t, yet it is priced tens of thousands lower than luxury competition like the Cadillac Escalade, Lincoln Navigator or European offerings. The QX80 third row is somewhat cramped compared to the newest offerings, however. Those who routinely carry six or seven need to pack carefully, but for those who only occasionally use all the seats, the Infiniti is the perfect size. 

The test vehicle was a new trim level for this year, called Premium Select. Outside there is dark chrome trim and 22-inch wheels that enhance the Infiniti’s already pleasing exterior, and inside the two-tone leather and contrast stitching illustrate how to design and build the interior of a vehicle that is expensive but not quite the top dog in a lineup. Many companies now save their best moldings for only their most expensive trim levels, but not Infiniti. Its rows of French stitching may or may not be real thread, but if it this well done, who care? It reminds me of the old cassette tape ad, “Is it real or is it Memorex?” and the QX80 leather is of a much higher grade than that in most domestic or even European competitors. The twin screens—one for Android/Apple phone integration, one for the vehicle’s own systems, work really well. Infiniti offers adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, lane assist and most every other type of safety aid as standard, and they generally work well. However, the Predictive Forward Collision Warning system, which is supposed to help anticipate what vehicles in front of the Infiniti are doing and alert the driver, was too erratic to be trustworthy. On one occasion, in stop and go traffic, the QX80 decided the car directly ahead was starting to move forward (it was not) and tried to accelerate. That is why most companies call these systems “driver aids” and not auto pilot. 

Under the hood is an updated 5.6-liter engine, now with 400hp and 413lb-ft of torque. It is superb, with great shove right off the line, followed by a burgeoning swell of power that makes it fun to chase the redline. It sounds glorious, too. The 7-speed transmission’s gear changes are transparent and well suited to the engine. While the QX80 can clear 60mph in under 6 seconds, most competitors are faster these days, thanks to turbochargers and/or more gears in their transmissions. The Infiniti has a nice blend of ride and handling, with accurate steering and the ability to smother most bumps without unduly disturbing occupants. While the BMW X7 and Mercedes GLS handle in a more contemporary manner, the latter doesn’t ride as well on its biggest wheels. Neither the Ford/Lincoln pair or the Toyota Land Cruiser/Lexus LX570 ride as well either, and those Japanese stalwarts have much worse body control. Infiniti offers an even better setup on the top trim, called Hydraulic Body Motion Control; perhaps at some point it will filter down to this model. The QX80 is a capable tow rig, with an 8,500lb rating and—since it isn’t turbocharged—the ability to still get okay mileage while dragging heavy loads. 

The best–selling SUVs in this size are from General Motors. All-new last year, they are quite compelling, with more cargo room (especially in their long wheelbase versions) and multiple engine options including big block V8s and a superb turbodiesel. But the Infiniti feels more stoutly constructed, and based on history, the American machines are unlikely to give the kind of reliability the Infiniti has proven itself of over the years. While the QX80 is destined to remain a niche player, the continual evolution Infiniti has put it through means it is still a compelling proposition.  

EPA ratings: 13/19/15mpg 

0-60mph: 5.9sec 

Price as tested: $79,490 

Here is what Infiniti has to say. 

4 Stars 

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Contact Isaac Bouchard for help saving time, money and hassle when buying or leasing one at [email protected]

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