Infiniti has announced the launch of the new QX80 luxury SUV, featuring a more advanced design than before. This model is seen as the brand's flagship, showcasing future design trends. The new generation model is codenamed Z63, while the previous generation has been in the market for 14 years, debuting in 2010, with two facelifts in 2015 and 2018.
The new QX80 retains some characteristics of its predecessors but adopts a simplified design language called 'Artistry in Motion.' This design philosophy was previously showcased in the QX Monograph concept vehicle. The most significant changes appear in the front, with a new grille design inspired by lush bamboo forests, complemented by the illuminated Infiniti logo. The grille is surrounded by divided lighting units and vertical air intakes, further optimizing the vehicle's dynamics.
The advanced design continues at the front of the vehicle, where a long, flat hood supports the distinctive body structure. The streamlined appearance is enhanced by the newly designed concealed door handles and modern front air vents. Even more surprising is the new glass section, which features opaque pillars that give a wider overall appearance. The design of the D-pillar has also been updated and emphasized by a wave-like element.
The rear design is equally modern, featuring a new tailgate and a full-width light bar. The latter consists of over 300 LED lights designed to evoke 'calm light reflections on a water surface.' Continuing with the lighting theme, the QX80 offers a unique welcome sequence; as the owner approaches the vehicle, the door handles automatically extend while the Infiniti logo and daytime running lights illuminate. The Light Path system then displays a stunning wing-like design on the ground, leaving a memorable impression.
In addition to the luxurious lighting, Infiniti has spent over six years developing a new dynamic metallic paint designed to give the SUV a liquid metal feel.
The interior has always been a weak point for the QX80, and thus, a new multi-layered design has been introduced with soft touch materials and two 14.3-inch screens. The infotainment system is particularly noteworthy as it features built-in Google systems, meaning users will have access to Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play Store.
The dashboard features a new 9-inch screen located on the curved center console, providing access to drive mode selectors, climate control settings, and front seat controls. Apart from the screens, the model showcases a luxurious mix of leather, wood, and metal. Soft touch details are abundant, and the instrument panel features illuminated Infiniti logos as well as streamlined lines. Other features include a shift knob, a 64-color ambient lighting system, and a cool box available in the center console.
Customers can opt for heated and ventilated seats in the first and second rows, along with heated third-row seating. The model also offers massage seats for the first and second rows for the first time. Additionally, the QX80 can be equipped with a new cooling system that uses infrared sensors in the headliner to detect heat in the second-row seats. If heat is detected, the climate control system automatically 'cools' the passengers quickly. While the system may seem unusual, Infiniti stated that tests showed passengers could reach a comfortable temperature in 50% less time.
There is also a new Front Wide View system that uses cameras to provide a 170-degree view of the vehicle's surroundings on 14.3-inch screens. Additionally, there is a video display of what is directly in front of the vehicle, as if the driver could see it directly through the engine compartment. An enhanced surround view display and an upgraded digital rearview mirror are also included.
Regarding the camera systems, there are new systems that can capture images or videos from the front camera. The model also offers an in-car camera that can be used for social media posting, remote vehicle monitoring, and keeping an eye on second-row passengers.
The QX80 Pure and Lux variants come with a Klipsch audio system equipped with 14 speakers and 600 watts of power. The Sensory and Autograph trims feature a sound system composed of 24 titanium speakers and an 8-inch TriPower subwoofer. The system also includes four ceiling-mounted speakers and metal speakers mounted on the front headrests. Returning to the QX80 Autograph, this flagship model features a unique exterior design along with an ultra-luxurious interior. The final sport seats are made of leather, accented with elm wood and aluminum trims, and feature a rear touchscreen for climate and seat control.
The new generation QX80 offers more space, with a 30% increase in storage behind the third row. The model also includes an 18% increase behind the second row, supported by a flatter floor and a slight increase in length of 25mm.
Buyers will also find seven- and eight-seat configurations with increased knee and foot space in the first two rows and significantly enhanced legroom for the third row. The last two rows have also been adjusted for comfort.
The vehicle is powered by a new 450-horsepower V6 engine with twin turbochargers. The old 5.6-liter V8 engine has been replaced by a new 3.5-liter V6 engine. While this may seem like a reduction in power, the new engine produces 450 horsepower and 699 Nm of torque, representing an increase of 50 horsepower and 139 Nm. This isn't the only change, as the 7-speed transmission has been replaced with a new 9-speed transmission.
The rear-wheel drive system is standard on the Pure and Lux models, while the Sensory and Autograph models feature all-wheel drive. The SUV also offers an air suspension system that can lower the vehicle by 71 mm or raise it by 61 mm for off-road conditions.
Buyers can also expect an improved driving experience thanks to a stiffer chassis, benefiting from a 57% increase in lateral stiffness and a 300% increase in torsional rigidity. In terms of safety, a suite of standard driver assistance systems is included, such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, and blind-spot warning. Additional features include rear cross-traffic alert, blind spot intervention, lane departure prevention, and trailer blind spot warning.
The ProPILOT Assist 1.1 system comes standard, combining adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping assistance to make long trips more comfortable. Higher trims offer the ProPILOT Assist 2.1 system, a level two semi-autonomous driving system allowing hands-free driving on certain highways.
The 2025 Infiniti QX80 is expected to hit the market this summer, starting at $82,450. This represents a significant jump from the 2024 model, which started at $74,150. However, it closely aligns with competitors such as the Cadillac Escalade priced at $81,895 and the Lincoln Navigator priced at $82,765.
Senior Writer The quest for automotive knowledge began as soon as the earliest memories. Various sources information, even questionable ones, have been explored including video games, television, magazines, or even internet forums. Still stuck in that rabbit hole.
