SUMMARY
Infiniti has released more details on their Luxury SUV for the 2022 production year, the 2022 Infiniti QX80. Its interior is getting upgraded, replacing the outdated components with far more modern amenities. The mechanics of the QX80 won’t have much change to it, as it’s still powered by the same engine. Its exterior stylings are also staying the same, so this new iteration seems to be for those people who wanted a more up-to-date version of this family-friendly three-row SUV.
LATEST
A lot of the improvements that Infiniti announced for the 2022 generation of the QX80 is focused more on bringing the SUV’s tech up to par with the competition. The QX80 now has a more modernized infotainment system, being powered by Infiniti’s InTouch infotainment software suite. It also features a new center stack design which has new climate controls and wireless phone charging capabilities. It’s expected that Infiniti will release more information on the 2022 Infiniti QX80 at the start of fall, as it coincides with their other releases.
ESTIMATED VALUE
The 2022 Infiniti QX80 will come in three different models: Luxe, Premium Select, and Sensory. The Luxe edition, with a cost of $70,600*, features many luxury amenities within its package. The Premium Select trim starts at the price of $75,385*. Lastly, the Sensory trim will have an asking price of $82,235*.
MACHINE PERFORMANCE
The 2022 QX80 still retains the same 5.6-Liter V8 Gasoline engine as that of the previous year’s model, capable of 400 horsepower and a torque output of 413 pounds-feet. The engine’s power goes through a 7-speed automatic transmission, which is the only option for buyers. It comes standard with rear-wheel drive and optional all-wheel drive for buyers.
The engine itself still delivers ample power, along with great throttle response feel. Running down the highway is a different matter though, as the transmission is a bit difficult when it comes to downshifting. During town and city driving, it handles much better and coasts along as its exhaust growls after each press of the accelerator. Much of this can be attributed to an independent front suspension which helps take the shock out of rough asphalt. It also makes use of the Hydraulic Body Motion Control system to soften the ride and keep passengers comfortable all throughout.
Both front and rear brakes make use of ventilated discs, the front ones using dual-piston calipers and the rear making use of single floating calipers. Handling is aided by speed variable power assist steering, giving it a turning diameter of 41.3 feet. The ride does feel comfortable, but it doesn’t have the sporty feel that other competitors have. Those looking for an SUV that drives as sharp as a scalpel might need to look elsewhere, as this SUV is a bit more serene and casual. It does over a towing capacity of 8,500 pounds which is useful for families who plan on bringing a lot to their outings and vacations.
FUEL EFFICIENT & ACTUAL MPG
The 2022 QX80 is definitely not going to be known for its fuel economy, being quite the gas guzzler. Its EPA ratings put it at 14 MPG/City, 20 MPG/Highway, and 16 MPG/Combined. This is way behind when it comes to the ratings of other Luxury SUVs on the market today.
INTERIOR, SOLACE & BAGGAGE
Much of the same body look is retained for this newest generation of the QX80. The cabin is laden with premium Napa leather upholstery, as well as high-quality materials. The display on the center console has been remade to fit the modernized touchscreen, along with a more accommodating and user-friendly control scheme. The HVAC system now has a new layout, featuring a set of physical knobs that adjust the climate zones.
However, we can’t help but notice that a lot of luxury features we see in the QX80’s rivals are still not available. Infiniti has yet to add a heads-up display, panoramic sunroof, and even an option for buyers to have massaging seats. Its advanced climate control system does make use of a Polyphenol filter which helps keep air quality high within the cabin. Families will have more to appreciate with this SUV, as the spacious cabin is quite well-made. The three-row passenger cabin offers either a set of captain’s chairs or a three-passenger bench. Its baggage space is quite expansive, with 49.6 cubic feet of space with the third-row seats folded down. With the third-row seats deployed, it has 16.6 cubic feet of space which is still ample enough for everyday use. A powered liftgate has been installed to help load and unload cargo.
TECHNOLOGY
The Infotainment System of the QX80 has been completely modernized, discarding the dual-screen setup reliant on rows of buttons. The new 12.3-inch touchscreen features Infiniti’s InTouch connectivity services, integrated with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Take note though that Android Auto still requires a USB cable to properly work. Onboard navigation is also available with the infotainment suite. It also comes with wireless phone charging capabilities.
The QX80 is also rocking a 13-speaker Bose Stereo system, along with an optional Theater package that adds a USB port and an extra 120-volt outlet. The rear-seats also have an entertainment system that features two smaller 8.0-inch screens that are fitted to the headrests of front seat, reserved for the Sensory trim.
SAFETY
All models of the 2022 QX80 come with various driver-assistance technologies such as automated emergency braking and forward-collision warning systems. There are also other options that can be availed in the different packages offered by Infiniti. It does have lane-departure warning systems and lane-keeping assist systems. Adaptive cruise control is also a standard for all models.
WARRANTY
Infiniti offers quite a competitive warranty plan with it being one of the longest spanning ones on both the limited warranty and corrosion protection plans. However, the company does not offer any form of complimentary scheduled maintenance which is common for this class. The Limited warranty spans for four years or the first 60,000 miles driven, whichever comes first. This also goes the same for the Powertrain warranty, lasting for four years or 70,000 miles.