We hit the road in the 2015 Infiniti QX80, the automaker's largest vehicle and a strong competitor in the giant luxury SUV class.
We hit the road in the 2015 QX80 SUV, Infiniti's largest vehicle.
For 2015, the SUV gets updated with a new front fascia that brings its design in line with the automaker's current aesthetic.
The lower grille opening gains more definite edges and the fog light enclosures have been sharpened, now featuring more chrome brightwork.
The HID head lamps have been revised with LED eyebrows and DRLs. Automatic high beams and steerable projectors join the 2015 feature set.
Under the hood, the 5.6-liter V-8 survives unchanged. Output is stated at 400 horsepower.
A seven-speed transmission is the only gearbox available for the QX80.
The QX80 lacks specific off-road traction modes, but it does offer snow and towing settings.
The SUV is available in either rear- or all-wheel drive configurations.
Rounded vents add character to the front fenders.
Optional 22-inch wheels fill the arches at all four corners. Don't expect to find any knobby tire options.
The optional upgraded suspension auto-levels itself to compensate for cornering and when towing heavy loads.
Estimated fuel economy is stated as 16 mpg combined, but we averaged only 14.1 during our testing.
A motorized lift gate can be activated from afar with the remote transponder. The QX80 also comes standard with keyless entry and start.
The rear (third-row) seats are also motorized and fold flat at the touch of a button.
The QX8o is available in either a seven-seat (shown here) or an eight-seat configuration. The difference is the addition or removal of the second-row center console.
Infiniti counts the third row as three seats, but we were only able to comfortably seat two reasonably sized adults back there.
Our example was equipped with an optional "Theater package." Checking this box adds two LCD screens to the front-row headrests.
The rear-seat entertainment system ships with two IR wireless headphones for dual-zone listening.
The front seats are heated and cooled and power-adjustable.
Our example was not so equipped, but the 2015 model year introduces a new high-luxury Limited trim level.
Getting all of the driver aid and intervention tech requires specifying two optional packages totaling about $7,650, but for the money it's one of the most fully featured loadouts in the class.
An around-view camera system places wide-angle cameras on all four sides of the SUV, giving the driver a virtual bird's-eye view of the area surrounding the vehicle.
Digital media sources include Bluetooth audio and calling, HD Radio, satellite radio and USB/iPod connectivity.
Infiniti's HDD navigation system is standard on all QX80 models.
Wood trim and leather create a luxurious air. The cabin is quiet and well isolated from the passing scenery.
Instrumentation is simple and easy to read at a glance. A small monochrome display sits between the two large gauges.
Our optional Deluxe Technology package also adds a Bose audio system.
Though revised for 2015, our opinion of the QX80 hasn't changed. It's a high-tech large SUV, but the smaller QX60 does a better, more efficient job of luxuriously transporting six adults.