2025 Infiniti QX80: Making a Grand Entrance
2025 Infiniti QX80
The Infiniti QX80 can trace its roots way back to 2004. Back then it was called the QX56 and was launched as the Infiniti brand’s flagship. The vehicle was then renamed QX80 in 2014 and the second generation would live on with minimal changes for 13 years (2011-2024). The QX80 was always a tough sell as it was basically a more luxurious and expensive version of the Nissan Armada. Sales were adequate and while the product was good, it was never on par with other competitors. For those who can afford a large and pricy SUV, image is everything and unfortunately the old Infiniti couldn’t match what Mercedes-Benz, Cadillac, Land Rover or even Lincoln were offering. To say it bluntly, the old QX80 just never had anything that made it stand out. So when Infiniti announced that they were going to redesign the QX80 for 2025, many weren’t exactly sure what to expect.
As a flagship, these full-sized land yachts are supposed to showcase their brands latest technology, feature the highest amount of luxury and are an indication as to where the brand is headed. So in other words, reaching the pinnacle of luxury is no easy task but once the 2025 Infiniti QX80 was revealed, you could just tell that this vehicle was something special. Infiniti needed a homerun and by spending more money on creating a more luxurious SUV, they finally have a worthy competitor in the full-sized luxury SUV class. The QX80 takes Infiniti to a height of luxury never seen before from the brand. Its elegant, comfortable, eye-catching and most importantly makes you feel special. Initial impressions are good, but has Infiniti done enough to make the QX80 a class leader?
Exterior Design: It’s all about the details
The redesigned 2025 Infiniti QX80 is certainly impressive. Everywhere I went people were eyeing the QX80. Its big, its imposing and when you’re driving something like that, people will notice. It also looks expensive and fits in just fine when parked next to an Escalade or Range Rover at the country club. The old QX80 went unchanged for a long time and many criticized the old one, commenting that from the front end it resembled a whale. The new 2025 version however is very attractive with a handsome face; nobody is going to make aquatic references anymore.
Large grille inspired by bamboo
Infiniti says the grille was inspired by bamboo and the QX80 also features an updated three-dimensional logo. Narrow day-time running lights are found up high and stand-out thanks to its segmented design. Headlamps are found just below and are slightly pushed inwards, flowing with the shape of the grille and bumper. From the side, the QX80 is big and boxy with flush door handles that pop out once you approach the vehicle. So far so good, but the rear end is the real star of this Infiniti’s design with a large curved rear light bar. This striking digital piano key design is sure to attract attention with its 300 LEDs. The new QX80 has an expressive style and there’s plenty of details that shows the direction Infiniti is headed in the future. While the previous version is likely forgotten this new one should leave a mark and strong impression by those who buy this big rig.
Interior Design: The finer things in life
Everything that makes the QX80 so great on the outside thankfully transitions to the inside of the vehicle. Supreme luxury, technology, comfort and fun features are all hallmarks of the QX80’s interior. Sit inside and two large 14.3-inch displays are there to greet you. They dominate the dash but are integrated quite nicely and look as if they are connected as one massive screen. The gauge cluster display sits behind the steering wheel and is configurable, while the infotainment system is front and center. Google is built into the system, meaning Google maps and various downloadable apps are available. Below the infotainment lies a 9-inch screen that controls heating and ventilation. Drive mode controls can also be found in this lower screen. Beneath this screen lies a push button transmission selector that is accompanied by a piano black surface. No traditional shifters here.
Google Maps are included
I found the infotainment system to work well and the graphics looked sharp. The system wasn’t overly complex and it could be slightly customized to fit personal preferences. Small icons along the bottom of the screen can be brought out from sub-menus and then placed onto the main screen. Meanwhile the HVAC system is very straightforward and uses haptic sounds to give the user feedback. In order for a quick response, you need to actually take a stab at the buttons to work as a light touch just won’t cut it.
Heating and ventilation gets a separate screen
The design and quality found within the 2025 QX80 is outstanding. It’s a lavish and opulent environment that just oozes with luxury. Leather covers the dash while all three rows of comfortable seats in my tester is lined with a burgundy quilted semi-Aniline leather. Attention to detail is high as the QX80 comes with aluminum accents, open pore wood trim all accompanied by customizable ambient lighting. On the passenger side of the dash, a back lit panel with the Infiniti script and pin stripes shine on through. All of these thoughtful details add up and help solidify this vehicle as a top of class contender. The new QX80 is a huge improvement over the previous generation and I am awe struck with how nice everything looks.
Great attention to details, like this backlit Infiniti script
With seating up to 8, all rows are welcoming and comfortable. The new QX80 is well-equipped and all passengers are in for a treat. Second row seats are roomy and a massage feature is available. Each seat comes with heating and an air-vent. USB ports can be found throughout the interior and a 24-speaker Klipsch premium audio system will fill the cabin with your favorite music. Even in the third row, seats are very comfy with plenty of room. Heck, it can even fit full-sized adults with ease, which is something very few third rows can do. Second row seats are power operated, allowing access the third row. Both the second and third row of seats are motorized and fold flat from buttons in the rear storage area or from the infotainment. With all seats flat there is an enormous amount of space, creating endless opportunities to transport many items.
One really awesome feature is the cool box that is found in the center console. It is large enough to carry tall bottles. All you have to do is activate the system and it will direct air-conditioning to this mini refrigerator. Infiniti claims it will cool a six pack of soda on the way to a picnic and anything that can keep drinks cool on a hot summer day sounds good to me.
The Cool Box! One of my favorite features
Infiniti really put forward a strong effort with the interior. It’s very elaborate and for all passengers the 2025 QX80 provides first class travel. I mean, everything with the cabin looks great and feels high end. Shoppers will take notice as the QX80 nudges ahead of the competition with a best in class interior, for now at least.
How it drives: Much improved
All QX80’s come available with a 3.5-liter twin turbocharged V6 engine that produces 450 HP and 516 lbs-ft of torque. While the old version had a V8, the new version adds more power and has better fuel economy. A 9-speed automatic transmission complements the engine, helping to create a more refined ride. The QX80 comes with standard 4WD in Canada and can be had in either RWD or 4WD (higher trims) in America. Meanwhile for those who still use their large SUVs for towing the QX80 is quite capable with a towing capacity that is listed at 8,500 lbs.
Best suited for urban environments; the QX80 is quite capable
For such a big vehicle the 2025 QX80 feels surprisingly refined. Yes, you can feel its weight around turns and at speed, but then again full-size SUVs aren’t meant to be driven like sports cars. Power delivery is strong as the QX80 quickly gathers speed from a standstill. Steering is quite light and it has a nice feel to it. The QX80 feels like a smaller vehicle when operating it around town and on highways. Five drive modes are available and Sport mode tightens up the steering and suspension. This enables the vehicle to operate more dynamically, improving body roll around corners. The QX80 debuts Infiniti’s first electronic air-suspension. It also comes with a dynamic digital suspension that measures the vehicle’s movement and applies damping forces to produce a smoother ride, better handling and improved motions over bumpy roads. While the QX80 still drives like a truck, the suspension is a lot softer and the vehicle handles imperfections on the road very well. Brakes are also well tuned and not overly sensitive. Lastly, the inside of the QX80 is supremely quiet with outside noises being blocked out. This is because Infiniti has added numerous enhancements to sound deadening in the cabin. This is luxury to the highest level as the interior is a tranquil environment.
That third row is spacious
These days’ safety features and cameras are an integral component in cars. The QX80 offers plenty of them that will help you park this large SUV in the tightest of spots. A 3D around view monitor with Spin Capability and Moving Object Detection is new. A virtual 360-degree bird’s eye view camera is also available. An even more impressive Invisible Hood View allows drivers to look through the vehicle’s hood and engine to see curbs and other hard to see object in front of the SUV. A Front Wide View provides up to 170-degrees allowing users to see past parked cars or corners. This is all accompanied by a smart rearview mirror. With all this tech to help you park, even the worst parkers should have no excuse parking this thing!
On the safety front, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane keeping, and a rear cross-traffic alert are standard. Blind-spot monitoring and ProPIlot Assist completes the very long list of features that will ensure that you and your passengers are safe while in the 2025 QX80.
My Autograph trim comes with 22-inch Aluminum Alloy wheels
The 2025 QX80 is a joy to drive and is much improved over the previous generation. It’s still an SUV but it feels more carlike than ever before, thanks to the many enhancements to ride and handling. As the 2025 QX80 and Nissan Armada go in different directions I feel that the QX80 now is more focused as a true luxury product and has more purpose than what it had in the past.
Final Thoughts: Infiniti finally makes a world class flagship
It’s great to be able to afford nice commodities. But when it comes to high end vehicles they really need to feel special. Infiniti has finally delivered and in my opinion the QX80 climbs to the top as it reaches the ultimate level of luxury. The 2025 QX80 is a standout in terms of interior design and quality. It also receives high marks for safety features. Technology is also great and the QX80 showcases the future of the brand as they hope to grow sales and beat luxury leaders. The new QX80 makes a statement with its elegant design, with stunning details that shows just how serious Infiniti is about challenging the top competitors. I was most impressed by the interior comfort as sitting in the second row of seats reminds me of a first class flight on an airplane. This Infiniti makes even the most mundane trips to the supermarket feel rewarding. Luxury is all about standing out and being noticed. There’s no doubt that those who choose the 2025 QX80 are going to get lots of attention, so get used to the stares. Overall this is a solid effort and a vehicle that I can confidently say sits at the top of its class.
A special thanks to Morrey Infiniti for the vehicle
Pricing and Specifications:
3.5-liter Twin-Turbocharged V6 - 450 HP; 516 lb-ft of torque
Canada:
Luxe - $104,995
Sensory - $113,995
Autograph - $124,995
US:
Pure - $84,445
Luxe - $91,545
Sensory - $101,945
Autograph - $111,895
Main Competitors:
BMW X7, Cadillac Escalade, Land Rover Range Rover, Lexus LX, Lincoln Navigator, Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class
Updated Infiniti badge
