Infiniti has long been a brand that historically maximizes the lifecycle of its vehicles. Their flagship QX80, which made its debut 13 years ago, redefined the brand’s approach to luxury and has undergone three mid-cycle refreshes since its introduction. However, for 2025, Infiniti is unveiling a transformative evolution that transcends a mere refresh, elevating the standards of luxury to unprecedented heights.
Artistic Luxury
First unveiled in 2023 as the QX Monograph Concept, the all-new QX80 stands as a striking embodiment of sophisticated artistic luxury. It features elegantly sweeping LED lights at both the front and rear, a resplendent cascading waterfall grille, and a sleek silhouette accentuated by recessed door handles.
Inside, the QX80 meticulously fulfills the criteria of opulent tranquility. The cabin is adorned with exquisitely quilted nappa leather seats, showcasing an embroidered tufted design that exudes refinement. The matte-finish wood grain, harmoniously complemented by leather accents and ambient illumination on the dashboard and door panels, further enhances the luxurious atmosphere. Sumptuous, plush carpeting adds an additional layer of comfort.
LIKES: Ample power, fit and finish materials, road presence
The QX80 is replete with an array of premium features, including an expansive suite of screens on the dashboard, heated and ventilated front and rear seats, and massage functionality for both front and rear occupants. Notably, the QX80 offers heated seating for third-row passengers and incorporates a biometric cooling system that employs an infrared sensor in the headliner to detect body temperature, and automatically directing cool air from the climate control system towards them. Additionally, the impressive 24-speaker Klipsch Reference audio system, complete with emperor-styled headrest speakers, envelops passengers in an auditory experience fit for royalty.
The QX80’s infotainment system is a testament to technological sophistication, featuring three displays: two 14.3-inch screens strategically positioned across the dashboard and a 9-inch screen below for managing climate controls and driving modes. A fourth screen is dedicated to second-row passengers, allowing them to control their own power seat adjustments, massage functions, and other amenities.
Performance to Boot
To merely label the QX80 as a crossover would be an understatement; it resolutely adheres to its SUV heritage, continuing to embody a robust body-on-frame chassis. This construction imparts a commanding and visceral driving experience that asserts its dominance on the road. Our Autograph variant, equipped with air ride control, effortlessly glided over uneven surfaces, showcasing a refined capability. While the steering offers a light touch that enhances maneuverability, the substantial weight of the vehicle is palpable in its handling dynamics.
The transition from the traditional naturally aspirated 5.6-liter V8 to a more contemporary 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 marks a significant evolution in performance. This impressive engine generates a formidable 450 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, allowing the QX80 to navigate with surprising agility, despite its considerable mass.
DISLIKES: Memory seat feature glitch, slowing moving power 2nd row seats, emperor speaker headrests where uncomfortable
At a weight exceeding 6,200 pounds, the QX80’s heft is evident at lower speeds. Fortunately, the integration of the twin-turbo V6 with a 9-speed automatic transmission facilitates swift acceleration, enabling drivers to forget the vehicle’s weight. Its true prowess is not measured by its 0-60 time but rather by its remarkable performance in the 50-80 mph range. The QX80 accelerates so rapidly that during a passing maneuver, you may find yourself approaching triple-digit speeds before you realize it. Even as the QX80 approaches these exhilarating velocities, the cabin remains a sanctuary of tranquility, insulated from the road’s harshness, all while riding on striking 22-inch wheels.
One of the most distinguished features of the QX80 is its ProPilot Assist 2.1 system. This advanced system enhances traditional adaptive cruise control by providing a hands-free driving experience, complete with traffic jam assistance, lane change support, and the capability to detect slower vehicles ahead while suggesting appropriate lane change maneuvers. Overall, we found the system to function effectively; however, we remain somewhat hesitant regarding the lane change assistance feature, as we prefer to execute lane changes independently.
Pre-Production Glitches
Regrettably, we encountered a few technical anomalies during our assessment. The trip computer for example perpetually reset to display a distance of 378 miles, which hindered our ability to obtain fuel consumption. After traveling 180 miles, the QX80 required 18 gallons of fuel, yielding a fuel efficiency of 10 miles per gallon, which appears questionable. Additionally, we faced issues with the ventilated seats, which did not operate as intended. The memory seat function kept resetting to an uncomfortable driving position and while the emperor speaker headrests were visually appealing, we found it difficult to ascertain whether they produced any sound.
The 2025 Infiniti QX80 embarks on a new generation marked by a substantial price increase, commencing at $82,450. This positions it alongside prestigious competitors such as the Lexus LX, Cadillac Escalade, BMW X7, and Mercedes-Benz GLS. Our fully equipped Autograph trim reached a price exceeding $112,000, which is a considerable investment. However, we believe that Infiniti has adequately addressed this premium pricing by delivering a vehicle that meets the high expectations.
2025 INFINITI QX80 AUTOGRAPH (PRE-PRODUCTION)
STARTING PRICE: $82,450 (PURE Trim)
AS-TESTED: $112,590
PERFORMANCE:
ENGINE: 3.5-LITER TWIN-TURBOCHARGED V-6
HORSEPOWER/TORQUE: 450-HP / 516 LB-FT
TRANSMISSION: 9-SPEED AUTOMATIC
DRIVETRAIN: FOUR-WHEEL DRIVE
EPA MPG: NOT RATED
AS-TESTED MPG: UNABLE TO RECORD
FEATURED OPTIONS:
$695 – PREMIUM DYNAMIC METALLIC PAINT
Leave a Reply