- Infiniti’s flagship V8-powered SUV
- Seating for up to 8 passengers
- Premium luxury appointments
- “Edition 30” celebrates three decades of the brand
- 8,500-pound towing capacity
The 2020 Infiniti QX80 is a full-size sport utility vehicle with space for up to eight passengers. Unlike the countless unibody crossovers on the market, the QX80 is a traditional body-on-frame sport-utility vehicle (SUV) that has been on sale continuously since 2004, when it was introduced as the QX56. Today’s second-generation model was launched in 2011, when it was completely redesigned. Unlike the first-generation offering, which was based on the Nissan Titan, the newer model is based on the rugged Nissan Patrol (a vehicle not offered for sale in the United States). In 2014, Infiniti rebadged the QX56 to the “QX80” to align with the nomenclature on its other vehicles.
Infiniti, a division of Nissan Motor Company, was launched in 1990 so the 2020 model year marks the 30th birthday of the premium luxury brand. To celebrate three decades of heritage, Infiniti has introduced the special “Edition 30” trim level. Most recently, the 2020 Infiniti QX80 won our prestigious 5-Year Cost To Own Award, which honors new vehicles with the lowest projected ownership costs.
Luxurious cabin and upgraded infotainment
Infiniti pulls all the stops with the QX80, configuring the SUVs spacious passenger cabin with the highest level of standard luxury appointments. Leather upholstery and genuine wood trim throughout the cabin are standard, as is a 10-way power-adjustable driver seat (the front passenger seat is 8-way power-adjustable). The front seats and steering wheel are heated, and a premium 13-speaker Bose audio system is standard.
New for 2020 is an upgraded infotainment system with dual-stacked screens (8.0-inch on the top and 7.0-inch on the bottom). The primary instrument panel has its own 7.0-inch color display. While the multifunctional displays are welcomed, they don’t appear particularly cohesive — each has unique fonts and layouts, and the menus and interactions are different. Infiniti InTouch, the brand’s connected infotainment service, is bundled with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for the 2020 model year, which is welcomed.
Seating for up to eight passengers
The three-row Infiniti QX80 offers two cabin configurations. Those seeking seven-passenger accommodations will enjoy roomy captain’s chairs in the second row that are separated by a large console with cup holders and storage. Opt for the three-across bench in the second row, which eliminates the console, and passenger capacity increases to eight. Access to the third row is easy as the second row folds and tumbles forward to allow passing through. Unfortunately, the third row is cramped and tight for anyone larger than a small child. Adult passengers and teens will find the space unacceptable for anything but a short trip (note the middle seat in the third row has seatbelts but lacks a tall head restraint).
With a tall ride height, and low window sills in relation to the seating position, the view outward from the QX80’s passenger is commanding. Occupants next to the windows will enjoy the scenery without feeling claustrophobic. Ventilation outlets running the full length of the ceiling deliver plenty of fresh air to all three rows, which makes the cabin temperature pleasant regardless of where seated.
Traditional V8 engine and capable four-wheel drive
The QX80 is fitted with a 5.6-liter V8 engine. In terms of size and cylinder count the engine is very traditional. In fact, the basic architecture hasn’t changed since the introduction of the QX56 nearly 15 years ago, but it has been extensively updated over the years. Today, the naturally-aspirated V8 has been tuned to deliver 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque (for comparison, the original 2004 Infiniti QX56 was rated at just 320 horsepower).
A 7-speed automatic transmission is standard. Our test vehicle was fitted with Infiniti’s optional All-Mode 4WD system. It provides the driver with three selectable positions (AUTO, 4HI, and 4LO) to match the driving conditions. Of note is the QX80’s 4LO mode, which utilizes a transfer case for stump-pulling power (most automakers have moved away from these in favor of electronic systems that are not as effective under some challenging conditions).
Impressive towing capacity
The power from the big V8 doesn’t press passengers into the seats right off the line, as compared to many of today’s torque-heavy turbocharged V6 engines, but it is very strong in the middle of the engine’s rev range and buttery smooth all the way to redline. The audio track from the exhaust pipes sounds great around town, but it quiets to a deep murmur at highway speeds and becomes nearly unnoticeable to occupants. Thanks to the powerful eight-cylinder engine, and the sturdy body-on-frame chassis, the Infiniti is capable of towing 8,500 pounds when properly equipped — that’s impressive.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rates the 2020 Infiniti QX80 at 14 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway for rear-wheel-drive (RWD) models. Mileage drops slightly with all-wheel drive, which is rated at 13 mpg city/19 mpg highway. During our testing, the QX80 delivered about 12 mpg around town and just under 20 mpg on the highway, figures that closely align with the EPA’s estimated figures.
Traditional full-size SUV driving dynamics
In terms of driving dynamics, passengers within the luxurious QX80 enjoy a serene ride that is isolated from the outside world. Bumps in the road are absorbed effortlessly by the SUV’s four-wheel independent suspension, but potholes and large breaks in the pavement send shudders through the vehicle’s heavy 22-inch wheels. The vibrations and jolts are felt through the steering wheel and find their way into the cabin.
The Infiniti’s driving dynamics are defined by its massive physical stature and 5,900-pound curb weight (the mass is par for the course, as the Toyota Land Cruiser weighs about the same). Highway stability is excellent, but fast lane changes (e.g., quickly maneuvering around other vehicles), or while navigating tight corners in canyons, allows the chassis to wallow. To combat this, Infiniti offers Hydraulic Body Motion Control on the full-size QX80. This is an innovative hydraulic-based stabilization system that reduces body lean and bump shock to smooth out the ride, but our test vehicle was not fitted with the system.
How much does the 2020 Infiniti QX80 cost?
The 2020 Infiniti QX80 Luxe, and our tested Edition 30 model, share a base price of $66,750 (add $1,395 destination and handling to all prices). Adding 4WD brings the price up to $69,850. The range-topping QX80 Limited 4WD starts at $91,450.
Ready to buy an Infiniti QX80? Find one on sale now at a dealership near you.
