The Infiniti QX80 is a Full-Size Luxury SUV With a Strong Price Point

Is it right to call a $70,000 SUV affordable? Not usually, but when you’re looking at full-size luxury models, you may pay much more than that to acquire one. For this reason, the 2022 Infiniti QX80 brings relative value to the segment, one where top-echelon models easily crest $100,000 and go well beyond.

Trims and Pricing

For its part, Infiniti offers the 2022 QX80 in Luxe ($71,995), Premium Select ($76,780), and Sensory ($83,630) trims. These prices include the destination charge. Every trim comes with standard rear-wheel drive or available four-wheel drive, a $3,100 option. The QX80 seats seven or eight, the latter achieved by choosing the obtainable middle-row bench seat option.

The segment the QX80 occupies is dominated by models such as the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. Both models are much newer than the QX80, which hasn’t seen an update since its 2011 release as the QX56. Interim updates in 2015 and 2018 have helped, but models with turbochargers, available diesel engines, and soon a hybrid make it seem especially aged.

No matter, Infiniti can stand on its price point as a difference-maker. Indeed, when fully loaded, the 2022 QX80 might approach $90,000, while Cadillac and Lincoln top $100,000. As for the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class, you’ll find some models costing far more. For instance, the AMG version tops $145,000. Then again, there is no performance variant offered by Infiniti.

Charting the Changes

Infiniti isn’t resting with the QX80 as some additional changes roll out for the latest model year. Arguably the most significant one is an upgrade to its infotainment system. Here, Infiniti replaced a pair of stacked screens with a single unit. The new arrangement not only looks cleaner, but it operates smoothly.

The other changes include wireless Apple CarPlay smartphone compatibility. Wireless charging, upgraded apps, and new switches for the climate control system round out the updates. We won’t call the 2022 model a significant update, but the infotainment system is a statement maker.

Highlights of the 2022 Infiniti QX80

Room for seven or eight.

In standard form, the Infiniti QX80 seats seven people. The first and second rows have individual chairs, while the third row has a bench seat. But customers can swap out the comfortable middle-row captain’s chairs for a three-place bench seat. The gain of an extra seat is an upgrade that some require. On the other hand, if you do not need 8 seats then keep the comfortable and supportive captain’s chairs.

Generous cargo space.

With all seats in place, the QX80 offers just 16.6 cubic feet of cargo capacity behind the third row. But folding seats down converts this luxury SUV into a strong freight hauler. Indeed, with 49.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 95.1 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded, the freight possibilities become very attractive.

Strong tech features.

With the stacked screens out of the way, Infiniti suddenly has a highly competitive tech assemblage for consideration. Besides the 12.3-inch touchscreen and improved smartphone compatibility, there are many other features of note. For example, all models get a Bose audio system. The standard 13-speaker unit ties in with HD Radio and satellite radio. On the top Sensory trim, it gains four additional speakers and comes with a rear entertainment system. Bluetooth is standard as is navigation. Other features include a Wi-Fi hotspot and four USB ports.

Keeping you safe.

We like that manufacturers are adding driver-assist safety tech to their models. These features certainly help drivers avoid accidents and that’s always a great thing. Infiniti’s list of features includes blind-spot monitoring, rear-cross traffic alert, and lane-departure warning. Also, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and automatic emergency braking. Infiniti finishes with automatic high-beam headlights, rear-seat alert, and adaptive cruise control. The only extra feature is adaptive pivoting headlights. They’re ideal for improved peripheral vision on dark roads where deer are present and while cornering.

Robust V8 power.

Infiniti’s performance recipe for the QX80 is its tried-and-true 5.6-liter V8 engine. This motor makes 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque and works with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Power shuttles to the rear wheels or all four wheels.

The engine is powerful and thirsty. We found it offers excellent step-off acceleration and great passing power. There is no hesitation with the transmission as it works seamlessly in the background. Direct steering, firm brakes, and a very comfortable ride are among its strengths. As for handling, this SUV is simply big and takes getting used to when navigating tight turns. Girth makes a difference here and that’s something you cannot change.

Infiniti also designed the QX80 for towing. This model pulls up to 8,500 pounds. This compares to up to 7,700 pounds for the Cadillac Escalade and up to 8,300 pounds for the Lincoln Navigator. Other models to compare in this segment include the Land Rover Range Rover (7,716 pounds), Mercedes-Benz GLS (7,700 pounds), and the BMW X7 (5,950 pounds).

Infiniti QX80 Considerations

We’ve already gone over the QX80’s price and age when discussing this model. More modern designs are out there, but Infiniti is strong in technology, towing, and amenities. For some customers, these are the priorities.

We think the middle Premium Select trim has the best appeal. Add in available four-wheel drive and this model costs about $80,000. Again, that’s thousands of dollars less than its competitors, giving Infiniti the price advantage in its segment.

2022 Infiniti QX80 Specifications

Specifications supplied by the manufacturer. Statistics assembled by Tom Keegan.

See Also — Overview of the 2022 Infiniti QX60

Photos copyright Stumpwater Media Group, LLC. All rights reserved.