Nice Drives: Infinity QX80 Sensory

A refined and classy look

by Isaac Bouchard

The Infiniti QX80 is entering its twilight years gracefully, with a look that is refined and classy—a welcome change from some seniors, who feel need to dress like their grandkids or have their faces frozen into immobility to avoid some wrinkles. The Infiniti interior is also a pleasant respite in many ways from the modern predilection for overly complex systems or faux button’s whose haptic feedback is inconsistent at best. Material quality is top notch and the QX80 is built like a bank vault. Being based on the tough-as-nails Nissan Patrol (as used by the United Nations) the Infiniti has also proven itself to be one of the most reliable vehicles you can buy.

Power derives from a normally aspirated, 5.6-liter V8, whose 400 horses travel through a seven-speed gearbox. Responsive and sweet sounding, it gets the job done, though most competitors are faster and more frugal. Dynamically the QX80 is also behind newer competitors, with a smooth ride and linear steering, but ponderous handling. It at least seems as good as the newer Lexus LX600, and certainly has a better ride than that rig, when both are equipped with 22-inch wheels. But other SUVs that have come out more recently, ranging from the BMW X7, Cadillac Escalade, GMC Denali and Mercedes GLS450, have the Infiniti’s offense covered in dynamics and interior size and usability.

The best value QX80s are the lower trim levels, who undercut rivals by $10,000 or more, feature-for-feature. Mention must also be made of the Nissan Armada, the QX80’s mechanical twin, which is even less. But for those who want a proven player, one which won’t be in the shop regularly just as soon as the warranty expires—and which now has three years of complimentary maintenance via Infiniti Premium Care—or that can handle actual off-road duties and tow heavy loads, the QX80 remains compelling.

EPA Ratings: 13/19/15mpg

0-60mph: 5.9sec (indep. test)

Price as tested: $90,885

Here is what Infiniti has to say.

3.5 Stars

Colorado AvidGolfer Magazine is the state’s leading resource for golf and the lifestyle that surrounds it, publishing eight issues annually and proudly delivering daily content via coloradoavidgolfer.com.

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