Review: 2022 INFINITI QX80 Sensory 4WD

When the INFINITI QX80 made its first appearance back in 2004, it was marketed as a luxury SUV but under the QX56 badge. Then in 2013, when INFINITI renamed their entire product line, the QX56 became the more familiar QX80. One of the bigger changes for the QX80 came in the 2011 model year when INFINITI made the decision to switch the QX80's chassis platform from the Nissan Armanda to the more rugged high-tensile steel body-on-frame concept used on the Nissan Patrol. It was a good move for INFINITI because the durable and reliable Patrol platform has a successful reputation around the world not only as a consumer vehicle but also as a military platform vehicle.

The new 2022 INFINITI QX80 has even more technology inside, adding to the luxury and remarkable strength it's known for.The new QX80 takes its place at the top of our SUV lineup that's growing bolder for 2022.

Jeff Pope, Group Vice President, INFINITI Americas

New for 2022

One of the more obvious changes for 2022 will be seen on the center stack where INFINITI engineers developed an all-new 12.3-inch high-definition INFINITI InTouch display. This high-tech, high-def screen produces a sharp and crystal clear display that enhances the infotainment experience for not only the driver, but other vehicle occupants as well. Since the QX80 is a full-size three-row luxury SUV, there is plenty of space for the 12.3-inch display to look natural on top of the center stack. If reaching across the stack makes you nervous, there are steering wheel controls that allow you to activate the different applications in the infotainment system, such as the radio volume or station selection.

After viewing a number of the apps with the new high-def screen, the view I was most impressed with was the one produced by the cameras. This is a game changer for sure. When it comes to the proper screen size for vehicles, I was becoming concerned we were one day going to see a 52" display screen in a vehicle. This new INFINITI high-def screen shows it's not all about the size of the screen; though 12.3 is a nice size, but the clarity the screen produces that is most important.

QX80 Sensory Triple Treat

Whenever there is a discussion about traveling in a full-size three-row luxury SUVs, there must be a discussion about the vehicle's horsepower, torque, towing capability, and comfort of the ride. Most consumers today are looking to find their next great weekend adventure in luxury and comfort. It doesn't matter if they are just driving to the mountains, or towing their fun; they want to do it in reliable comfort.

Power and Torque

The QX80 has family traveling fun covered on all fronts. First, it is powered by INFINITI's 5.6-liter V-8 engine that will produce a hefty 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. It will be paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission that has plenty of low end torque for towing; but with only seven gears, it can get the QX80 up to highway cruising speed pretty quickly too.

Towing Capability

Second is the towing capability of the QX80. Because it is a full-size SUV, it will have the traditional body-on-frame construction; but INFINITI also utilizes high-tensile steel for the frame to add extra strength and rigidity to the platform. When you couple that frame with an AWD drive-train and an upgraded suspension package that includes four-wheel independent, double-wishbone suspension, hydraulic Body Motion Control System, and a rear automatic self-leveling suspension, you will have more confidence that you eliminated a lot of the drama when it comes to towing up to 8,000 pounds of fun.

Luxurious Comfortable Ride

The final factor of the triple threat is the comfort and ride. The QX80 has all the expert crafted elements you would expect from an INFINITI. You will find rich textures and signature INFINITI touches throughout all three rows of this luxury SUV. The ones that I feel will make a long road trip this summer enjoyable include:

• 12.3-inch high-definition INFINITI InTouch infotainment display
• Bose® performance audio 17-speaker sound system for listening to premium music services
• Noise-insulating glass to cut down on wind and road noise
• Quilted semi-aniline leather-appointed seats for all three rows
• Specially-treated and easy-to-clean seats for those swimming or hiking days
• Climate-controlled front seats for those chilly mornings in the mountains
• Heated second row seats
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and USB-based Android Auto compatibility
• Wi-Fi hotspot that will connect multiple devices
• Oversized captains chairs with abundant leg room for older children or adult second-row passengers
• Dual 8" headrest screens for second row passengers to enjoy their favorite content or games

When I finished my week with the QX80, I could easily see why this vehicle is the lead sled dog in the INFINITI fleet. From its foundation as a rugged and capable off-road SUV to its power and strength to tow 75% of what today's families are buying along with an interior comparable to a high-end sedan, this QX80 is as versatile of a vehicle that is out there. How does a sedan or even a truck compete with a triple threat like this?

Specifications

MSRP (starts): $83,335
MSRP (shown): $87,985

Learn More

For more information or to test drive this vehicle for yourself, stop by a local dealer or visit online at:
INFINITI | QX80

About INFINITI

INFINITI Motor Company is headquartered in Yokohama, Japan with operations around the world including regional offices based in the Americas, China and INFINITI International Markets based in Dubai. The INFINITI brand of premium automobiles are assembled in manufacturing facilities in Japan, North America and China. INFINITI design studios are located in Atsugi-Shi near Yokohama, London, San Diego, and Beijing. More information about INFINITI and its industry leading technologies can be found at www.INFINITIUSA.com. You can also follow INFINITI on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, and see all of our latest videos on YouTube.