All-New 2025 Infiniti QX80 Was 14 Years Overdue
Infiniti’s largest SUV is finally getting a new generation after 14 years. Closely based on the QX Monograph concept that we saw recently at the Canadian International Auto Show in Toronto, the all-new QX80 will try to revive the Japanese luxury brand that’s struggling to stay relevant in today’s marketplace.
Craig Keeys, group vice president at Infiniti Americas, described the vehicle as “the ultimate expression of bold design, first-ever technologies and detailed craftsmanship.” In a real showcase of optimism, he also said he believes the QX80 will reestablish the standard for full-size luxury SUVs.
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Well, that’s going to be tough, for sure, as the QX80 currently ranks dead last in the segment in terms of sales. Of course, it helps to have a completely fresh and much more elegant design—one that embodies “Artistry in Motion”—in a very boxy and American-like package. The structure of the larger front grille and the shape of the LED daytime running lights are said to be inspired by a bamboo forest, while the full-width taillight element uses over 300 LEDs to evoke the reflections of light upon a body of water. Drivers can expect a welcome lighting sequence featuring the available Infiniti Light Path when approaching the vehicle.
New Degrees of Comfort and Convenience
Inside, the new QX80 boasts higher-quality materials such as available genuine open-pore ash wood trim with laser-etched metal inlays and semi-aniline leather-appointed seats featuring stitching details that are partially finished by hand. Adding another dimension to the interior atmosphere is 64-colour ambient lighting inspired by the four seasons.
Two 14.3-inch HD displays highlight the dashboard, one serving as a reconfigurable instrument display and the other as the InTouch touchscreen infotainment system. The latter marks the first application of Google built-in at Infiniti, incorporating Google Assistant, Google Maps and other familiar apps via Google Play. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration is also included.
A pair of technologies worth highlighting include Front Wide View and Invisible Hood View. The first one projects a wide-angle viewpoint from the vehicle's front camera across both displays, which will be great in parking lots, tight garages or even trails. With the second, the driver sees a projected image of what's behind the hood, allowing for spotting curbs in drive-through lanes, tracks when entering a car wash and other obstacles.
Another notable feature of the QX80, this one in the second row, is available Biometric Cooling. Basically, it detects when a passenger may be feeling hot and automatically directs cooling air toward them. Infiniti claims it can get passengers to a comfortable temperature in 50 percent less time than standard climate control alone.
Everyone on board will appreciate the new Klipsch audio system with up to 24 speakers and 1,200W of power turning the cabin into a concert hall. Speakers are built into the front seat headrests, and these can allow only the driver and front passenger to hear navigation prompts or phone calls.
Another V8 Bites the Dust
Unsurprisingly, the old 5.6-litre V8 is gone and replaced by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6. Output and torque are both increased, with 450 horsepower (+50) and 515 lb-ft (+102) on tap. The engine is mated to a new nine-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. How efficient will the new QX80 prove to be? For now, we don’t know. Fuel consumption ratings will be released at a later date.
Electronic Air Suspension can lower the vehicle by nearly 3 inches when parked to facilitate easier loading of cargo or simpler ingress for passengers. When driving, it lowers by 2.1 inches to reduce drag and improve efficiency at high speeds. A system also constantly evaluates the road surface and the vehicle's behaviour to regulate body movements, maximizing ride quality and comfort. By the way, compared to its predecessor, the QX80 is now 4 decibels quieter.
The last thing we need to tell you is to prepare to spend a lot more money. Canadian pricing for the 2025 Infiniti QX80 starts at $104,995 in Luxe trim, a hike of nearly 20 grand from the current base MSRP. The mid-grade Sensory and top-line Autograph models retail from $113,995 and $124,995, respectively. The first units will arrive in dealerships this summer.