2021 INFINITI QX80

SCHEDULE A TEST DRIVE
Supersized Luxury
Full-size SUVs are desirable for many reasons: they're powerful, they're accommodating, and they’re perfect for towing, hauling, and carrying lots of gear and passengers. The 2021 INFINITI QX80 is all of those things and more, blending the brawn and versatility of a full-size SUV with the refinement and technology that upscale drivers desire.
Powertrain and Performance
The INFINITI QX80 is available with one powertrain, but it offers all the performance and refinement luxury car buyers expect. Thanks to its 5.6-liter V8, it delivers an astonishing 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque when mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission. When properly equipped, the QX80 can tow a massive 8,500 lbs.
Buyers also have the choice of rear-wheel drive, or the INFINITI All-Mode® 4WD system for added traction and all-weather capability.
While it is a full-size SUV, the QX80 actually offers reasonable fuel economy for its size. The EPA rates rear-wheel drive models at 16 mpg combined (14 mpg city, 20 mpg highway).* Thankfully, four-wheel-drive models don't suffer a substantial penalty in terms of fuel economy either, returning 15 mpg combined (13 city, 19 highway).*
Features and Trims
The five-door, eight-passenger 2021 INFINITI QX80 starts at $66,750 with rear-wheel drive.** That price of entry buys plenty of standard equipment.
Even the base QX80 is well-equipped, featuring 20-inch alloy wheels, powered external mirrors, a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, second-row captain’s chairs, a Bose® 13-speaker audio system with Streaming Audio via Bluetooth® and SiriusXM® satellite radio capability, and navigation. Standard trailer sway control makes towing a breeze, and for no extra cost, you can add the Split Bench package, which replaces the second-row captain's chairs and center console with a 60/40 split-folding bench seat that increases overall seating capacity from seven to eight.
There are several option packages that can turn the QX80 into a luxury apartment on wheels. The Driver Assistance package (see the safety section below) is designed for even more peace of mind behind the wheel, while the Theater package includes dual seven-inch color monitors, two pairs of wireless headphones, a remote control, auxiliary input jacks, and a 120-volt outlet.
The Deluxe Technology package includes an Advanced Climate Control System, a Bose® Cabin Surround audio system with 15 speakers, Hydraulic Body Motion Control system, different interior colors, and other upgrades. Another possibility is the Tire and Wheel package, which features 22-inch nine-spoke alloy wheels on all-season tires.
Further refinement can be had with a step up to the Limited model. It includes all previous packages and adds leather interior coverings, unique 22-inch wheels, and Ashwood trim.
Design
There is absolutely no mistaking the 2021 INFINITI QX80 for anything else on the road. Its bold styling language and upright posture is complemented by luxurious touches like the stylish side vents, auto High-Intensity Discharge headlights, and LED taillights. A big chrome grille makes a definitive statement, while the boxy profile is set off by a distinctive kink in the D-pillar. A front underbody spoiler and rear liftgate spoiler even help this big SUV slice through the air with some efficiency. INFINITI claims a drag coefficient of 0.36.
The interior is lavishly trimmed in leather and wood, with a prominent center-stack screen for navigation and audio functions. Second-row captain’s chairs are standard, but a bench seat can be substituted at no additional charge. There are also nine cupholders to make sure that all of those passengers stay hydrated.
Safety
The formidable exterior conceals a robust array of safety features. Standard safety equipment on the 2021 INFINITI QX80 includes the brand's Advanced Air Bag System, Vehicle Dynamic Control stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes.
Also standard (and quite useful in a full-size SUV) is the Around View Monitor system, which uses four small, super-wide-angle cameras and advanced image processing to give the driver a 360-degree “birds-eye view.” It’s paired with front and rear sonar with Moving Object Detection.
A suite of additional driver assistance features is also available. It includes adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning and intervention, front collision warning and mitigation, and a backup collision mitigation system.
Bottom Line
The 2021 INFINITI QX80 offers everything a good full-size luxury SUV should. Its powerful V8 engine will ensure pleasurable driving, and the vehicle’s handsome styling will ensure drivers look good while driving it. Several electronic aids will help anyone feel comfortable behind the wheel, despite the QX80’s size.
Meanwhile, the interior forms a spacious mobile oasis full of modern tech features like navigation, premium audio, and plenty of available entertainment options. It also has enough room for all of the people or cargo you’ll ever need to carry.
Contact us or visit us at INFINITI of South Atlanta today for a test drive.
* 2021 EPA Fuel Economy Estimates. Actual mileage may vary with driving conditions – use for comparison only.
** Price is Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). MSRP excluding destination charge, tax, title, license and options. Dealer sets actual price
Image: INFINITI