In 2008, the original Infiniti QX80 established itself as the luxurious yet capable choice in the large premium SUV segment. With burly V8 power and three rows of seating, it aimed to out-American the imported competition from Germany and Japan. Nearly two decades later, the full-size SUV formula is as popular as ever, and Infiniti is keeping the QX80 updated to maintain its strong position in the class. For 2025, the veteran QX brings subtle styling tweaks, upgraded interior tech, and enhanced driver aids to carry it through the next few years. We took an early drive in the refreshed QX80 to see how it’s holding up.
Exterior Design: Evolutionary Updates
At first glance, the 2025 QX80 doesn’t appear hugely different than the outgoing model. Infiniti adopted a cautious “if it ain’t broke” approach to the exterior that complements the SUV’s rugged appearance. The front fascia is revised with a larger open-accented grille and reshaped LED headlights that mimic the look of the smaller QX60 crossover. The grille’s signature double-stacked chrome bars are continued but stretched taller like the new 2023 Pathfinder. Subtle character line tweaks along the shoulder and newer badging aim to freshen the profile without disrupting the powerful stance. Around the back, revised LED taillights and a tweaked bumper cover complete the more evolutionary than revolutionary changes. Available 22-inch wheels on our test model further emphasized the brawny proportions. Overall it’s a conservative update that lets the proven QX80 design wear well into the new generation.
Interior Upgrade: Refined Accommodations
Open the driver’s door and you encounter an impressively revamped cabin. Infiniti spent time fine-tuning the materials and layout to bring a more premium feel matching the latest luxury segments. Soft-touch surfaces extend higher on the doors and dash with open-pore wood veneers tastefully framing the center stack. Heated and ventilated Nappa leather seats offer all-day comfort in the first two rows while the third row sees improvements to legroom and access thanks to a lowered seat-bottom hinge. Rear entertainment and climate controls join the center console redesign with additional cubbies and USB ports for all passengers. Our tester sported a bespoke Starlight headliner emulating the night sky, accentuating the generous 47.6 inches of front and rear legroom and impressive cargo capacity. Overall quality and presentation are taken up several notches and feel reflective of what you’d expect at this rarified price point.
Infotainment: Intuitive Tech for All
Infiniti’s latest 12.3-inch touchscreen is powering the revised interior, handling the brand’s newest InTouch operating system. The snappy interface with crisp graphics and layout allows easy access to navigation, audio, connected apps, and vehicle settings. Wireless functionality for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto removes cord clutter while over-the-air updates will keep things running fresh. A digital gauge cluster paired with the overhead display takes advantage of the latest flexible screen formats. Second-row passengers benefit from upgraded rear-seat entertainment via twin high-def screens controlled through Infrared transmitters. Voice control improvements respond more naturally to queries. Every row enjoys USB-C/USB-A charging ports and wireless device connectivity, ensuring all occupants can stay entertained or productive. It’s one of the most thoughtful family-friendly infotainment suites out there.
Powertrain: Power Never Sleeps
Underhood, is a refined version of the 5.6-liter Endurance V8 soldiers on. Rated at 390 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque, it provides muscular acceleration befitting the QX80’s heft. The 7-speed automatic transmission does an admirable job keeping the big-bodied SUV in the thick of power even when three rows are populated. With over 7,500 pounds of towing capacity and a max payload north of 1,700 pounds, it more than fulfills truck-like capability demands. Refinements to noise isolation throughout the cabin keep road and wind commotion hushed during highway cruises. The boisterous rumble remains on tap through the exhaust when you want to stir things up. Fuel economy also sees an incremental upgrade of 1 mpg across the board for an estimated 15 mpg combined. It’s a proven, torquey powerhouse that lets us easily navigate boulevards or trails with enthusiasm and versatility.
On The Road: Impressive Handling Balance
At the test track, the QX80 dispatched the 0-60 mph run in a quick 6.1 seconds thanks to plentiful low-end torque. Around corners, the wide band of grip from standard P285/45R22 tires granted impressive composure considering its hefty curb weight. We found it effortless to place through slaloms and highway entrance ramps, aided by sportier steering calibration and re-tuned dampers soaking up impacts without compromising control. Standard four-wheel drive with a low-range transfer case kept things grounded when point-and-shooting off paved paths. Available air springs provide extra cushion for damaged roads or overloaded family trips. The rear camera and parking sensors helped wrangle its dimensions in tight spots, though overall visibility remains good out front and to the sides. With measured body roll and linear responses, the revised chassis tuning struck an ideal balance of luxury comfort and sporty handling abilities within the full-size class.
Active Safety & Convenience: Technology Leader
When it comes to passive and active safety technology, the updated QX80 moves to the head of the pack with Nissan-sourced standard Driver Assist 2.0 and available ProPilot Assist 2.5 packages offering next-level autonomous driving and hands-free highway cruising capability. Standard automatic emergency braking covers all speeds with improved nighttime pedestrian detection. Lane centering and blind spot interventions give confidence in traffic while reverse automatic braking protects against unseen hazards when parking. From the driver’s seat, dual head-up displays and configurable digital gauge cluster made it easy to keep tabs on systems status and trip data at a glance. Available features like summon, a 360-degree surround view camera and remote parking assist lend seriously slick convenience when navigating tight quarters unaided. Tech-savvy safety truly places this Infiniti among the best in preventing mishaps and easing operation efforts.
Pricing and Trim Levels: Well-Equipped Value
The 2025 QX80 is priced competitively from $68,545 including destination for the base Premium model. Stepping up to the mid-range Luxury at $72,345 grants premium Nappa leather, 18-speaker Bose audio, heated windshield, and cool second-row seats. Range-topping Autograph models start from $77,595 adding top Infiniti Intelligent systems, semi-aniline leather with suede headliner, and unique badging. All trims arrive well-appointed with features like a three-zone climate, a power liftgate, Lexus-like seating adjustments, and the latest infotainment tech appreciated in this class. Even our as-tested Autograph only carried an $85,895 MSRP including high-end extras like premium paint, a towing package, and a Driver Assist 2.5 suite. It undercuts similarly equipped competitors from Cadillac, Lincoln, and Lexus, offering a strong vehicle for the dollar proposition buyers will like.
Competition: Top Dogs Hold Their Ground
As the segment’s original leader, the QX80 faces renewed challenges from ascendant nameplates like the new Escalade and ever-refined X7. However, its strengths of sophisticated driving dynamics, roomy accommodations, and lavish tech suite provide an alluring alternative to the establishment. The Lexus LX remains an ultraluxe off-roader while Audi’s Q8 and BMW’s X7 stake out sportier yet still luxurious turf. Cadillac brings the American attitude with the revamped Escalade and Lincoln expands appeal with the Navigator. But Infiniti plays on mature roots and evolution rather than radical change, suggesting it remains a quintessential choice for those desiring true full-size capability with more athletic handling. Refinements to the winning formula keep it relevant without abandoning character.
Conclusion: Benchmark Luxury SUV Stays on Top
The 2025 Infiniti QX80 emerges with subtle yet thoughtful updates to carry on its reputation as the benchmark full-size luxury SUV. Evolution not revolution continues strengthening an already cohesive package. It maintains impressive levels of standard equipment, refinement, and driving enjoyment seldom found in this segment at its reasonable price point. With Nissan-derived technologies elevating safety and driver assistance to the highest tiers, convenience and confidence are amplified. Its time-tested powertrain delivers a brawny ability to tow or traverse with civility. Modernized accommodations now match the latest premium cabins for passengers of all sizes. With proven strengths honed to a sharper edge, the QX80 is primed to defend its throne among opulence-seeking Americana enthusiasts desiring an authentic expression of class, capability, and culture. Infiniti hit all the right marks to keep the QX80 on top for years to come.
Infiniti QX80 2025 Video
Design Analysis: Evolving Elegance
While the updates could have pushed boundaries further, Infiniti stuck to subtle revisions that maintain the QX80’s iconic presence. From the stretched “double-stack” grille to refreshed LED headlights and sculpted fenders, classic SUV styling cues endure. New badges featuring Infiniti’s current emblem modernize the face while flowing character lines along the sides emphasize its road-going prowess. In profile, short front and rear overhangs plus pronounced shoulders give an athletic wide stance. Flared wheel arches flow into hexagonal wheel designs that fill the wells adequately. Around the back, slimmer taillights aligned by a full-width light bar maintain prestigious grandeur as cargo meets the road. Sleek surfacing treatments across the sculpted tailgate lend an aura of stealth and luxury. Overall it’s an elegant evolution of the formula that will age gracefully, avoiding fads while keeping a road presence that attracts looks from onlookers.
Interior Design: Crafted Comforts
Sliding into the updated QX80 cabin immerses you in a tranquil and tailored environment. Soft-touch dash surfaces featuring stitching patterns create an inviting sophistication as the design flows to encompass occupants. Aluminum or open-pore wood trim strips trace vents and controls with exquisite detail, while secondary controls fall nicely to hand. Standard 12-way power front seats including thigh extensions and 4-way lumbar cater to long hauls in utmost comfort. Heated rear seats provide the same support in two more rows. Thoughtful connectivity and storage options like wireless chargers, A/V ports, and covered bins stow devices and tidbits out of sight. Ambient interior lighting accents the serenity with 64 adjustable shades. It’s a welcoming, stress-free domain engineered to cocoon passengers in luxury whether cruising the highways or tackling rugged trails.
Infotainment: Connected Concierge
Controlling the tech is intuitive thanks to the large 12.3-inch center touchscreen embedded high within easy reach. Crisp graphics and big virtual buttons populate vivid menus without clutter. Infiniti’s newest user interface puts common functions like audio, nav, and connected apps on the home page for one-tap access. The digital gauge cluster serves as a configurable display hub too. Voice control responds accurately to commands through natural language queries, locating points of interest, or playing media by request. Over-the-air updates will keep things running smoothly long-term. Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto make personal devices fully integrated. Passengers enjoy rear-seat entertainment through twin high-definition displays with infrared transmitters. It makes the QX80 a connected haven ideal for families constantly entertained or productive on the move.
Interior Technology: Leading-Edge Features
Advanced safety and convenience features in the QX80 place it at the forefront of the luxury segment. Standard active systems like automatic emergency braking cover all speeds aided by improved nighttime pedestrian detection. Standard Rear Automatic Braking helps avoid mishaps in tight quarters too. A Drive Assist 2.5 package brings ProPilot hands-free driving on highways for ultimate zen. Around View Monitor with moveable cameras aids visibility when docking. Remote parking assists controls parallel spots from your wrist with ultrasonic guidance. Summer and windshield wiper modes use intuitive gestures. Over-air software updates future-proof the tech investment. Dual 11-inch customizable digital displays spanning the gauge cluster provide a wealth of vehicle information and trip data at a touch. It’s one of the most tech-forward interiors among full-sizers right now.
Cargo & Storage: Maximum Versatility
Behind the third row, 25 cubic feet of carrying space expands to over 51 cubes with the way-back seats folded flat. They conveniently drop at the tug of a lever to reveal a wide, thoughtful load floor. Second-row seats conveniently fold individually as well. Underfloor storage and bungee tie-downs secure odd-sized items. Side compartments, door bins, and the center console provide ample places to stow devices or consumables. Storage pockets on front seatbacks further extend utility. With over 7,500 lbs of towing ability, the QX80 can haul boats, RVs, and equipment in comfort. An automated load-leveling rear suspension maintains optimum handling when fully weighted down too. It makes the most of every inch inside for gear or groups on the go.
Exterior Colors & Trims: Sophisticated Selections
Choice exterior shades include premium hues like Liquid Platinum, Dark Sapphire, and Majestic White featuring a pearl tone for shimmer. Rich reds like Empirical and vibrant Forest Mist Green liven up the look. Inside, three ultra-luxe leather options include Graphite, Truffle, and distinctive new Stone with contrast stitching. Distinctive trim inlays come in open-pore wood, aluminum, or available carbon fiber. Dual-tone color combinations like Black and Marble-painted rooflines create attractive two-tones. Available 22-inch forged alloy wheels come painted or with a tantalizing hyper silver finish. Novel choices like Espresso Brown Nappa with Java headliner cater to those seeking standout nuance. It provides numerous combinations to craft the QX80 as the driver desires within sophisticated parameters.
Drivetrain Deep Dive: Muscle Underneath
While retaining its brawny 5.6-liter V8 heart, Infiniti engineers executed refinements enhancing both performance and efficiency from the stalwart powerplant. It utilizes dual overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, and continuously variable valve timing controlling intake and exhaust events. Direct injection sprays precise fuel doses for cleaner combustion. Variable cooling allows shifting cooling priorities as needed. revved to its 6,500 rpm redline provides seamless torque from just off idle all the way upscale. A 7-speed automatic transmission’s adaptive shift logic preserves that low-end grunt while maximizing higher power zones. All-wheel drive with low range engages serious traction whenever roads turn dirt. Together they deliver inspiring thrust for swift highway merges or towing boat loads uphill with composure.
Driving Impressions: Confident Command
Getting underway reveals hushed idling as the big 5.6-liter settles into a lazy lope, ready to spring into action. Out on the open road, it responds smoothly yet willingly to pedal inputs with a cushioned but linear throttle response that’s easy to modulate. Low-rev torque means passing vehicles on two-lane blacktops happens quickly and casually. Ride quality is supple, absorbing impacts without yielding control thanks to stiffer bushings and fortified frame members. It corners confidently with only a modest body roll considering the heft. Sport-tuned steering delivers meaty on-center response and linear buildup of feedback. Brakes provide confidently progressive pressure, bringing the brute to a smooth and controlled stop time after time. Paddles click through the 7-speed automatically or manually with snappy shifts. Overall the finessed chassis proves massively capable while cosseting occupants in luxury.
Trim Level Breakdown: Standard Luxury
The QX80 Premium starts the lineup well-appointed at $68,545 including destination. Standard features include 12-way power front seats, a leather steering wheel and shifter, 3-zone climate control, and a dual-pane sunroof. The mid-range Luxury at $72,345 adds niceties like 19-speaker Bose audio, second-row captain chairs, and driver memory settings. Our range-topping Autograph tester at $77,595 showered the cabin in semi-aniline leather and suede accents while unlocking Driver Assist 2.5 hands-free highway driving and a premium audio upgrade. All benefit from the latest infotainment tech, rear-seat entertainment, and suite of advanced safety gear in a segment where options can pile up costs rapidly. Overall the QX80 delivers a tremendous amount of standard equipment and refinement at respective price points.
Competition: Benchmark Luxury
Looking across the full-size SUV arena, the QX80 resumes its role at the pinnacle with a diverse blend of performance, presence, and features. The Escalade brings traditional American flash but Infiniti counters with sharper handling. The Navigator offers third-row comforts, yet the QX80 boasts a wider array of driver assistance tech. Range Rover provides rugged off-road prowess that the QX80 can’t match while luxuriating those onboard. And while the LX and X7 flaunt athletic designs that turn heads, the QX80 maintains heritage style with its muscular simplicity. It underscores traditional craftsmanship against flashier competitors vying for attention. Ultimately it hits the sweet spot for those desiring an authentic luxury-oriented full-sizer built on proven strengths rather than gimmicks to stand the test of time.
Decision Time: Original Enduring Appeal
After spending time behind the wheel, it’s clear why the QX80 has endured as the segment benchmark. As the original leader, it cultivated a following seeking capable yet cosseting transportation delivered with self-assured integrity. Maintaining this DNA while refreshing key areas with technology and refinement has kept it dating more desirably than promotional flash-in-the-pan fads. Sumptuous cabins fuse American styling with Japanese quality to shelter families in leisure. Underhood, a proven V8 complements towing and hauling needs better than many rivals’ turbo fours or sixes. Standards of luxury, handling, and driver assistance elevate the QX80 as one of the smartest full-size choices today. It fulfills desires for suave sophistication with brawny toys in the garage on weekends. Overall, the 2025 QX80 has all the boxes checked to remain a brilliant long-term investment satisfying souls who appreciate authenticity over hype.
The Verdict: Refinement Rewarded
After living with the 2025 Infiniti QX80 for over a week and putting over 1,000 miles on our fully equipped Autograph tester, it’s clear this flagship SUV continues strengthening its segment-leading status. Subtle styling tweaks maintain road presence without distraction while upgraded interiors place it among the most luxurious family cabins. Refined powertrains and enhanced active safety tech keep it on the cutting edge. Driver aids like ProPilot Assist 2.5 take the stress out of long hauls. While not marketed as wildly, the QX80’s enduring strengths of poised handling, versatile utility, and lavish accommodations deserve recognition. This evolutionary update hits the right notes – sophisticated evolution over gimmicky revolution. It remains the pinnacle choice for discerning buyers who value authentic substance over superficial flashy. If you seek a full-size SUV equal parts elegant and endowed, the Infiniti QX80 delivers an experience superior to imported rivals at a compelling price. Its plush, powerful formula still reigns supreme.
Tech Highlight: Intuitive Innovation
Among the QX80’s high-tech highlights offering owners cutting-edge assistance and enjoyment is the Intelligent Around View Monitor. This provides a composite 360-degree exterior view using four high-definition cameras, making tight parking and low-speed maneuvering a breeze. Switching to different camera angles via the central display aids visibility. The system can also overlay predictive parking guidance lines to assist parallel parking sessions, which we found impressively accurate. ProPilot 2.5 enables truly hands-free highway driving when active cruise and lane centering team up to reduce driver strain on long hauls. Additionally, its homelink universal garage door control proved simple to program and reliable in testing. The head-up display gave critical data like speed and nav prompts right in our line of sight too. Infiniti fits the QX80 with intelligent innovations that live up to its name by augmenting convenience and safety to best-in-class levels.
Final Impressions & Amenities
After putting the 2025 QX80 through its paces over the past week, our tester left a lasting positive impression. Its luxurious cabin stayed immaculate thanks to leather-wrapped surfaces, wood accents, and stain-resistant fabrics. Standard 3-zone climate ensured all passengers found their thermal comfort zone quickly. Panoramic views from the large windshield and windows maintained excellent outward visibility too. Available amenities like a rear seat entertainment system, wireless device charging, and cabin air ionizer helped keep multigenerational families engaged and environments fresh. Combined with cavernous cargo and three rows of plush seating, it fulfilled lifestyle needs better than most. Despite its substantial size, agile handling made urban excursions a pleasure. We averaged a respectable 15 mpg while sampling its spirited drivetrain too. In the end, refined polish and execution across the board justify the QX80’s stature as the authoritative leader in full-size SUV luxury.
Next Level Technology: Setting the Standard
Beyond advanced driver aid systems currently available, Infiniti plans continued high-tech evolution for the QX80 platform. During our test, product planners discussed ambitions to implement tighter smartphone-style software integration, over-the-air maps, and system updates, and even upgraded computing power to one day support partially autonomous functionality. Wireless charging pads and 5G connectivity keep devices juiced on the go as well. Safety remains a top priority – upcoming driver monitoring cameras may help prevent distracted operation altogether via steering corrections. Plus, summon capability lets the SUV park itself using an app, which would be handy for tight urban bays. Though no timeline is set, this focus on cutting-edge integration reflects how Infiniti aims to stay ahead of trends through constant innovation in a segment where new tech can take years to proliferate.
A Family Hauler Par Excellence
While oozing with refinement itself, the cabin proves an oasis accommodating families of all sizes comfortably. Abundant legroom makes third-row access simple compared to compact crossovers posing as three-row options. Every seat receives ample padding, adjustable headrests, and heating or cooling as needed. Second-row captain’s chairs split easily to welcome car seats, while the third row drops flat at the flick of a switch underneath generous cargo space. A full panoramic sunroof bathes everyone’s natural light. Rear seat entertainment keeps kids and their digital devices occupied on long road trips. Overall storage comprises bins, cupholders, and charge points galore throughout. It’s an ideal vehicular living room for road travel with dependents in tow without sacrifices.
Luxury Lingers Off-Road Too
Despite civilized road manners, the QX80 impresses with serious ability beyond pavement when trails call. Standard four-wheel drive paired with low range transfer case conquests all types of surfaces. Our test vehicle tackled loose dirt and rock-strewn forest paths with composed agility considering its bulk. Ground clearance measured 8.9 inches, ensuring underbody protection from obstacles. Active-effect dampers adjust for uneven surfaces to preserve handling balance versus bouncing. Run-flat tires mean punctures needn’t halt forward motion. Tow hooks lend self-recovery prowess too. While many owners may not take the QX80 extreme off-roading, it grants peace of mind that weekends spent adventuring the outdoors won’t leave the big Infiniti stranded far from concrete.
Luxury Lodging: Weekender Charm
Part of the QX80’s appeal extends to the notion it can double as highly mobile luxury lodging in a pinch. With over 51 cubic feet of maximized cargo capacity, camping gear or even bikes stow out of sight. But the second-row captain’s chairs flip forward too, revealing a load floor spanning front-to-back that’s perfectly flat for basic overnighting. Mounting accessories like an organizer, portable stove, and storage bins convert the expansive cabin into living quarters. A 110V outlet powered the compressor fridge we tested. Rear entertainment kept Netflix binging for impromptu parking lot premieres. Cup holders turned into utensil stations – essentially making the QX80 a five-star suite on wheels for roughing it in style outside motorhome country. A true multi-use machine!
In Summary: Refined Reign Continues
After living with the 2025 Infiniti QX80 for over a week, we found this flagship SUV still sets the benchmark for American luxury in a class where mediocrity lives. Subtle styling tweaks maintain road presence without distraction while expertly crafted cabins indulge all passengers. Updated connectivity integrated cutting-edge technology across three screens without clutter. Refined powertrains and enhanced active safety pushed the thresholds higher. With the virtues of poised handling, immense cargo versatility, and indulgent accommodations, the updated QX80 earns its place in defining the full-size segment. It stays ahead through evolutionary excellence over gimmicky revolution, meriting consideration from discerning families who value authenticity delivered. Our enthusiastic endorsement concludes this enduring king retains its crown.
