Infiniti continues its luxury full-size SUV offering with the 2022 Infiniti QX80 that comes equipped with its signature 400hp V8 engine. Some alternative offerings in the full-sized SUV class include the Cadillac Escalade, Mercedes GLS and the Nissan Armada (the QX80’s non-premium sibling). 4WD comes standard for Canadian models and second row seating can be configured with either dual captain chairs or a 3-row seat to up the total passenger count to 8 as opposed to 7.
New for model year 2022, the QX80 comes with a completely revamped infotainment system that now features a large 12.3” touchscreen with direct compatibility with Android Auto and Apple Car Play. A redesigned and upscaled climate controls panel also makes its way into 2022 models. Other new features include a wireless smartphone charger and added retractable compartments in the center console.
The 2022 Infiniti QX80 is offered in three trims with the base level Luxe package starting at $82,245, the Premium Select and higher Sensory trims coming in at $99,652 and $108,647 respectively.
All trims come equipped with the beefy 5.6-liter V-8 engine outputting a very capable 400 horsepower via a seven-speed automatic gearbox. US buyers will have the option to opt for rear-wheel or 4wd for added traction and stability in slippery and wet conditions. However, Canadian buyers will be have the 4WD as standard configuration. Thanks to the V8 engine, the 2022 Infiniti QX80 is capable of towing 8500 pounds, which beats many contenders within the full-size category by as much as 500 pounds.
The ultra-powerful V8 engine comes at the expense of fuel economy scoring poorly at just 14 and 20 mpg on the city and highway combined. Throughout our mixed city and highway test drive, we achieved 17.3 mpg on average.
The overall aesthetics of the QX80’s interior hasn’t changed much over the years, but the quilted leather stitching, stylish mechanical cluster dials and piano-black finish remains timeless. New for model-year 2022 introduces a dedicated center stack dual-zone climate controls for ease of use. Front and second row captain seats are also both heated and ventilated for added comfort.
Buyers have the choice to configure second row seating arrangements with either two full-size captain chairs or a single row 3-passenger seating for a total of 8 passengers as opposed to 7. Regardless of seating arrangement, 3rd row seats provide ample head and legroom even for full-size adults.
A new and improved 12.3” touchscreen makes its way into the 2022 QX80 model. The display is much more capable and user friendly thanks to its improved graphical user-interface, faster hardware and larger display area. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay allows for seamless smartphone connectivity. All trims come with a deep and rich-sounding 13-speaker Bose sound system along with USB charge ports scattered throughout the cabin space and a 120V outlet. A rear-seat entertainment package can also be purchased to fit two 8” media screens on the back of the head rest.
Overall, the 2022 Infiniti QX80 is a pleasure to drive and the maneuverability is much easier than one would think for an SUV of its size. The power from the 400-horsepower V8 is undeniable with silky smooth acceleration and the feel of limitless power and torque. Because the V8 engine doesn’t have to work hard for everyday practicality, the engine RPM’s remains low and steady making the overall driving experience and overall cabin very quiet and comfortable at daily cruising speeds. The 13-speaker BOSE sound system is fairly standard and we would expect a better audio sound system in its class. The only other suggestion would be to substitute some or all of the power with an electric alternative.
