Infiniti’s QX80 remains one of the few great examples of old-school cool! This refers to a colossal 7 or 8 seater ultra-luxury saloon perfectly designed to haul the those who want a top notch experience of luxury. The 2021 Infiniti QX80’s interior practically squeezes out every bit of luxury money can buy, including the shear interior real estate. So much so that the second row captain chairs are just as comfortable as the front row – even third row passengers wouldn’t complain about their comfort.
The QX80 is not the only contender trying to fit this bill, but is the only one with an imposing tank-like figure. The Mercedes Benz GLS450, recent Hyundai Palisade and of course the infamous Cadillac Escalade are all alternatives setting out to compete within the same segment.
While the QX80 stands at nearly 7 feet tall, it provides ease of access via a lavish chrome plated step up. Within the cabin space brings a whole new dimension of extravagance. Quality within is made up of classical quilted leather, high-fidelity surround audio, heated and ventilated front seats.
Both the base LUXE and ProACTIVE trims come with second row captain seats which we prefer for ease of access and increased cargo space. The ProACTIVE trim will also allow buyers to configure the QX80 with a 3-passenger second row bench to increase passenger seating to 8.
The interior showcases an exceptionally quiet and comfortable cabin. The aesthetics and tech features are slightly lagging behind with the absence of a panoramic sunroof, heads-up display and massaging seats offered by some of the competition. Nevertheless, the box-like chassis offers a grand and spacious interior for all 7 or 8 passengers depending on the second row seating configuration. With the ability to fold down the second and third row seats, the QX80 offers plenty of extra cargo space when needed as well.
The 2021 QX80’s InTouch infotainment system is driven by a 7” touchscreen that offers all the basics including Navigation, AM/FM and SiriusXM, Bluetooth and smartphone connectivity that’s compatible with Android Auto and Apple Carplay. An upgradable Theater package adds extra entertainment features including an extra USB port, a 120-Volt power outlet and two 8-inch LCD screens for rear passengers to enjoy.
It’s no secret that the QX80 hauls around a lot of weight. So much that the suspensions have trouble keeping up with the demands of gravity, but it works like a charm in typical driving conditions. With 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque from the 5.6L DOHC engine coupled to a buttery-smooth 7 speed automatic transmission, the acceleration feels effortless with the rev needle barely passing the 2000 RPM mark. That also buys you an ultra-smooth and quiet ride while almost completely isolating engine vibration from the cabin interior.
Given its high torque output, the QX80 can tow up to 8500 pounds, making it one of the best-in-class. Needless to say, the QX80 operates on a pay-to-play scheme and that’s mostly referring to the fuel economy having an EPA rating of 14 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway. Still, the V8’s buttery smooth acceleration and the feel of infinite torque is unmatched to any alternatives in the segment.
Driving the 2021 QX80 is quite the experience, with a high-up seating position and massive footprint. Power responsiveness from the V8 is incredible with the feel of almost infinite torque. Despite its sheer size and weight, the QX80 still gets around and manages to stay composed and exceptionally comfortable.
While all trims are outfitted with AWD, the base model of the 2021 QX80 comes in at $79,998 for the LUXE trim. The ProACTIVE model comes priced in at $87,998 and will come with larger 22” wheels and advanced cruise control, safety and tech features including lane departure prevention, blind spot monitoring and an adaptive headlight system. The ProACTIVE trim will also allow buyers to configure the QX80 for either 7 or 8 passengers while the base LUXE trim will only be made available in a 7-seat configuration.
The QX80 had withstood the test of time with a classic naturally aspirated V8 that delivers an exceptional experience like none other. But with stricter fuel emissions and with the EV revolution lingering around the corner, we also expect the QX80 to follow trends towards more fuel-efficient solutions. We look forward to what Infiniti has to offer for the QX80 in the upcoming years of newer and improved tech and innovation and a shift in the industry to electric.
