2020 Infiniti QX80 Pros vs Cons

With crossovers becoming such hot commodities, traditional SUVs aren’t quite as popular as before. However, the 2020 Infiniti QX80 proves that truck-based SUVs are here to stay. Many drivers will appreciate the QX80’s high tow rating and abundance of interior space. Muscular styling also enables the QX80 to dominate the road. It’s essentially a more luxurious alternative to the Nissan Armada.

What’s New for 2020?

This year, Infiniti updated the QX80’s technology. Many people will be interested in the SUV’s all-new infotainment system, which finally provides Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A greater number of active safety features also now come standard across the range.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2020 Infiniti QX80 – The Pros

1. Very Strong Powertrain

There’s only one powertrain in the QX80’s lineup. However, it’s a very good one. Motivating this big SUV is an Endurance V8 engine, which unleashes a formidable 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque. Drivers can look forward to experiencing a smooth power delivery. You will love how quickly the 2020 Infiniti QX80 gets up to speed. Despite tipping the scales at nearly 5,800 pounds, the QX80 clocks a 0-60 mph time of 5.9 seconds.

2. Tows Like a Truck

Do you own a pickup truck? If not, the 2020 Infiniti QX80 is a great alternative. It’s far stronger than a modern-day crossover. A heavy-duty frame and a monstrous engine enable the QX80 to haul a serious low. Infiniti lists the new QX80 with an excellent 8,800-pound maximum towing capacity. From camper trailers to recreational boats, you can use the QX80’s muscle to tow a lot of things. When pulling a load, expect the SUV’s seven-speed transmission to select the ideal gear.

3. Drives Better Than Most Large SUVs

There’s no overlooking the full-size QX80’s large stature. It’s a big vehicle that takes up plenty of space on the street. Nevertheless, the QX80 does not feel clumsy. After their initial test drive, most people are surprised by the QX80’s nimbleness. It hangs curves like a much smaller vehicle. If you demand even better body control, opt for Infiniti’s Hydraulic Body Motion Control system. Aside from giving the SUV a more athletic feel, it also improves ride comfort.

4. Can Handle the Rough Backcountry

The 2020 Infiniti QX80 is billed as a luxury SUV. While most QX80 owners will rarely venture off the beaten path, this SUV is still a capable off-road machine. When you do decide to tackle a trail, the QX80’s truck-based platform will prove its worth. There’s also enough ground clearance for you to pass over off-road obstacles. An on-demand 4WD system adds to the QX80’s ruggedness. At the touch of a button, drivers can enjoy enhanced traction.

5. Bold-Looking SUV

The 2020 Infiniti QX80 isn’t going to get lost in the crowd. This SUV has a commanding presence that’s hard to miss. Its signature front grille, which is found on a number of other Infiniti models, has a powerful look. A beefy hood and sharp-looking LED headlamps also help the QX80 to make a statement. While the QX80 looks cool in its standard form, an optional 22-inch Tire and Wheel Package gives the SUV a more aggressive stance.

6. New and Improved Infotainment

In the past, the QX80’s infotainment system was constantly ridiculed for its dated design. For 2020, Infiniti fixed one of the SUV’s biggest drawbacks. This year, a new dual-screen InTouch system has arrived. It’s more rewarding to use than the previous interface. Both of the screens are responsive, which means you can quickly make selections. Furthermore, no longer will drivers struggle to integrate their phones. Everyone can now enjoy Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

7. Comfortable, Quiet Family Mover

While riding in the 2020 Infiniti QX80, passengers will experience comfort. While the SUV’s third row is a tight fit, the first two rows are a perfect match for most families. Test drivers also enjoy the supportiveness of the QX80’s front seats. Ventilated front seats and heated second-row seats are available. Meanwhile, standard tri-zone automatic climate control seeks to further enhance relaxation. Although the QX80's engine has a powerful tone, you barely even hear it on the inside. Infiniti did a superb job of insulating the cabin.

8. More Safety Features for the Money

For 2020, QX80 buyers will receive more safety equipment for their money. While forward collision braking was already standard, rear automated emergency braking has been added as well. This feature proves to be invaluable when backing out of parking spaces. Parents will love having Infiniti’s Rear Door Alert System. By monitoring the cabin, the system can detect if a child or pet is still sitting in the back. Infiniti’s blind-spot monitor is another potential lifesaver.

9. Optional Theater Package

Kids have a tendency to become a bit bored. This is especially true when traveling a long distance. If you want to prevent your children from becoming restless, opt for the QX80’s Theater package. It comes with all of the necessary features to keep youngsters entertained. Integrated into the back of the front-seat headrests, the system’s dual 8.0-inch screens enable children to play video games and watch movies. A 120-volt outlet is also included in the Theater package.

10. Good Warranty Coverage

The 2020 Infiniti QX80 has one of the best warranty packages in the class. Infiniti’s powertrain warranty lasts for up to 70,000 miles. You will also appreciate the QX80’s 60,000-mile limited warranty. It includes corrosion protection, which is especially great for drivers who live in areas that experience wintry weather. Rust from salt exposure will be far less of a concern.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2020 Infiniti QX80 – The Cons

1. Could Be Too Expensive for Your Taste

In comparison to its European rivals, the 2020 Infiniti QX80 is a bit less expensive. However, this SUV is definitely not a cheap vehicle. Upon seeing the QX80’s MSRP, some car shoppers will immediately start to search for a less expensive alternative. Remember, the Nissan Armada is mechanically identical to the QX80. However, it demands a lot less money. You’ll only have to sacrifice just a small degree of luxury.

2. A Gas Hog

If you are looking for an eco-friendly SUV, the new QX80 may not meet your expectations. It consumes more fuel than the average vehicle. This fact can be contributed to the QX80’s size and high-output engine. When traveling in city environments, the QX80 is rated to return only 14 mpg. Opting for four-wheel drive further lowers fuel economy. Also, you can’t save money by using regular unleaded. Infiniti specifies the use of premium gas.

3. Cramped Third Row

When traveling with family and friends, the QX80’s third row may prove to be a valuable asset. It allows up to eight people to travel together. Unfortunately, there’s not much legroom for adults in the third row. Only kids will find it to be comfortable enough for long road trips. This could be an issue for a family of grownups.

4. Bulky Size Cause Parking Problems

You can’t hide the QX80’s large size. Although a 360-degree camera system is available, it doesn’t transform the QX80 into a smaller vehicle. The SUV is around 17.5 feet long. When parking in a crowded area, you have to pay closer attention to your surroundings. This full-size SUV is also more difficult to maneuver on narrow city streets.

5. Four-Star Overall Safety Rating

The QX80’s NHTSA four-star overall safety rating isn’t terrible. Nevertheless, some of the competition received better crash scores. During the NHTSA’s rollover test, this SUV only received a three-star rating.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition

2020 Cadillac Escalade

The 2020 Cadillac Escalade directly competes against the 2020 Infiniti QX80. While the Cadillac Escalade easily matches the QX80’s level of luxuriousness, there’s not as much legroom in its second row. You can also expect the QX80 to offer better handling on the road. A lower MSRP gives the QX80 another advantage over the Escalade.

2020 Nissan Armada

The Nissan Armada shares its platform with the Infiniti QX80. Because they feature the same engine, expect these SUVs to offer a similar level of performance. However, only the QX80 offers a Hydraulic Body Motion Control suspension. You will also notice the QX80’s more elegant interior.

2020 Audi Q7

Although the Audi Q7 is a three-row luxury SUV, it features a car-based frame. This means the Audi Q7 isn’t quite as tough. If you need maximum towing performance or plan to regularly travel off-road, the 2020 Infiniti QX80 will be your best bet.

Conclusion

The 2020 Infiniti QX80 has improved. Technology lovers will gravitate towards the SUV’s new infotainment system. More standard safety technologies also help make the new QX80 a more appealing choice. This is a highly recommended vehicle for traveling. While a smooth ride and comfort seating keep families comfortable on the highway, a rugged 4WD system allows you to travel down an off-road trail when camping.

While the new QX80 is great in some aspects, be sure it fits your particular needs. Poor fuel economy in town makes it less suitable for city dwellers. You should also consider the SUV’s large size.