2021 INFINITI QX80 Overview
The 2021 INFINITI QX80 stands as a prominent player in the full-size luxury SUV segment, offering a blend of opulent comfort, robust performance, and a commanding presence. It's a vehicle designed to transport families and their gear in style and with confidence, emphasizing a smooth ride and a wealth of amenities.
Highlights
- Engine: The heart of the QX80 is a potent 5.6-liter V8 engine, delivering a robust 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque. This translates to effortless acceleration and ample power for towing and hauling, making it a capable partner for adventures or daily commutes. It's paired with a smooth-shifting 7-speed automatic transmission.
- Safety Features: INFINITI prioritizes safety with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies as standard or available:
- Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection: This system uses sensors to detect potential forward collisions with vehicles or pedestrians and can automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or avoid impact.
- Blind Spot Warning (BSW) & Intervention (BSI): BSW alerts you if a vehicle is detected in your blind spot. BSI goes a step further by providing gentle steering input to help guide the vehicle back into its lane if you attempt to change lanes while a vehicle is in the blind spot.
- Lane Departure Warning (LDW) & Lane Departure Prevention (LDP): LDW alerts you if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane. LDP actively assists in keeping the vehicle centered within its lane by providing subtle steering corrections.
- Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC): ICC maintains a set speed and distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting your speed to keep pace.
- Backup Collision Intervention (BCI): This system can detect approaching vehicles or large objects when you are backing up and can automatically apply the brakes to help avoid collisions.
- Around View Monitor® with Moving Object Detection: This innovative system uses multiple cameras to create a bird's-eye view of the QX80's surroundings, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces significantly easier. Moving Object Detection alerts you to any detected motion around the vehicle.
- Trims: The 2021 QX80 is offered in three distinct and well-appointed trims, each building upon the previous with increasing levels of luxury and advanced features:
- LUXE: The entry-level LUXE trim provides a solid foundation of luxury and technology, featuring premium leather-appointed seating, heated front seats, tri-zone automatic climate control, a Bose® 13-speaker premium audio system, and the INFINITI InTouch™ dual HD display infotainment system.
- LUXE 3-ROW: This trim offers enhanced comfort and utility for larger families, adding a power-folding third-row seat for improved cargo flexibility and more convenient passenger access.
- LUXE 3-ROW PREMIUM: The top-tier LUXE 3-ROW PREMIUM elevates the ownership experience with a host of premium amenities, including ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a panoramic moonroof, a 17-speaker Bose® Performance Series audio system, and a rear-seat entertainment system with dual 7-inch monitors.
- Other Notable Aspects:
- Spacious Interior: The QX80 boasts a cavernous interior with ample room for up to seven or eight passengers, depending on the second-row seating configuration.
- Towing Capability: With a maximum towing capacity of up to 8,500 pounds, the QX80 is well-equipped to handle trailers, boats, or other recreational gear.
- Ride Comfort: The independent double-wishbone front and rear suspension, coupled with available Hydraulic Body Motion Control® (HBMC), contributes to a remarkably smooth and composed ride, even on uneven surfaces. HBMC actively counteracts body roll during cornering, enhancing stability and passenger comfort.
- Refined Exterior Styling: The 2021 QX80 features INFINITI's signature design language, characterized by bold lines, a prominent grille, and stylish LED lighting, giving it a sophisticated and imposing presence.
What to Expect
Owning a 2021 INFINITI QX80 typically translates to an experience of refined comfort and effortless power. The ride quality is a significant selling point, isolating occupants from road imperfections. The V8 engine provides a satisfying surge of acceleration when needed, and the cabin is designed to be a tranquil sanctuary, with excellent sound insulation.
Maintenance: As a luxury SUV with a powerful V8 engine, expect standard luxury vehicle maintenance schedules. This includes regular oil changes, tire rotations, and inspections of fluids and brakes. While INFINITI vehicles are generally reliable, the larger components and more complex systems can lead to higher maintenance costs compared to smaller or non-luxury vehicles. Following the recommended maintenance schedule is crucial for preserving the vehicle's performance and longevity.
Insurance: Insurance premiums for a large, luxury SUV like the QX80 are typically higher than for smaller or less expensive vehicles. Factors such as the vehicle's value, engine size, safety features, and the owner's driving record will all influence the cost. It's advisable to get quotes from multiple insurance providers to find the best coverage at a competitive rate.
Potential Considerations
While the 2021 INFINITI QX80 excels in many areas, potential buyers should be aware of a few aspects:
- Fuel Economy: The powerful 5.6-liter V8 engine, while delivering impressive performance, results in less-than-stellar fuel economy. Drivers who prioritize fuel efficiency may find the QX80's MPG ratings to be a significant drawback.
- Infotainment System Usability: While featuring dual screens for a modern look, the interface can sometimes feel less intuitive or responsive compared to some competitors' latest infotainment systems. The learning curve for some functions might be steeper for certain users.
- Cargo Space Flexibility: While the overall cargo volume is generous, the third-row seats, while power-folding on some trims, do not fold completely flat into the floor, which can slightly impact the utility of the cargo area compared to some rivals with more versatile seating configurations.
- Less Nimble Handling: Due to its substantial size and weight, the QX80 is not the most agile vehicle. While the suspension and steering are well-tuned for comfort and stability, sharp turns or tight maneuvers might highlight its mass, making it less suited for drivers who prioritize a sporty driving experience.
Overall Summary
The 2021 INFINITI QX80 is a compelling choice for those seeking a spacious, comfortable, and powerfully equipped full-size luxury SUV. It excels at providing a smooth and serene ride, ample passenger and cargo room, and a commanding road presence. Its robust V8 engine and comprehensive suite of safety features make it a capable and secure vehicle for families and towing needs. While fuel economy and infotainment system refinement are areas where it might not reach the pinnacle of the segment, its overall package of luxury, performance, and inherent capability solidifies its position as a strong contender for discerning buyers.
