This week, we’re going for a spin in an SUV that is simply huge — and very fancy. And you also may have overlooked it while focusing on Escalades and Navigators.
The Infiniti QX80 Sport is one of those vehicles that takes some getting used to — whether you’re parking it, squeezing through tight lanes or just seeing how much driveway it takes up. Even though it’s in line dimensionally with other full-size SUVs, like the Ford Expedition we drove a few weeks back, it still feels especially large.
This one is painted a color called “radiant white” with a black obsidian roof, making it look like a supersized Mini Cooper or Range Rover.
Once you’re inside, though, it’s clear: this SUV is packed with tech and luxury.
The cabin is genuinely opulent, with soft-touch materials everywhere and striking design details like the available dusk blue interior theme. You get dual 14-inch displays up front (one in front of the driver, another in the center) and a separate 9-inch touch screen for climate controls. Your phone slides into a neat cubby in the center console, though I kept hitting my elbow on the compartment’s folding door when it was open.
My daughter commented on how nice the air conditioning felt. This SUV has what Infiniti calls Biometric Cooling. It uses an infrared sensor to detect when passengers in the second row are getting too warm, then automatically adjusts airflow and temperature to cool them down.
Other doodads include:
- An illuminated INFINITI grille emblem
- Heated and ventilated first and second row seats (a heated third row is even an option)
- Massaging front seats (massaging second-row seats are available)
- Flush door handles that pop out when the vehicle is unlocked
- A panoramic moonroof
- 64-color personalized ambient lighting
- A suspension that can raise and lower itself, and make real-time adjustments to road conditions
This one also comes with a driver-assist system that can help keep you in your lane and regulate your speed, though it requires a hand on the wheel. A hands-free system is available on even-fancier versions. I expected it to be on this one, though, for the price.
An advanced camera system includes Invisible Hood View, which can show you what’s underneath the car. “The result is as if one could see right through the engine bay, helping spot curbs in narrow drive-through lanes, car wash tracks and myriad other hard-to-spot obstacles on the ground,” Infiniti says.
Passenger space is excellent. All three rows are usable. Getting to the third row is made easier thanks to a power-sliding second row, and child safety seats can remain in place even when the seat tips forward.
Cargo space is a bit tight when that third row is in place but generous with it down.
Power comes from a twin-turbo V6 that moves this big SUV with authority. It’s quick — especially for its size — but despite the Sport badge, it doesn’t feel particularly sporty. You’re always aware of the mass. This is more about smooth power and comfort than agility. This one can tow a hefty 8,500 pounds.
That Sport trim does bring plenty of dark, menacing exterior accents, along with big 22-inch wheels.
Shifting is done with push buttons and takes some getting used to.
Bottom line: At $108,160 after shipping — this Infiniti QX80 SPORT is big, bold and seriously luxurious.
