2018 Infiniti QX80 Review: Luxury and Performance Combined

By: Anas Kiblawi

June 20,2018

3 min read

165

Tags:

Infiniti specifications

2018 Infiniti QX80 Review: Luxury and Performance

Introduction

Today, we will experience the largest SUV from Infiniti: the 2018 Infiniti QX80. This model showcases a notable exterior redesign while retaining the overall silhouette of its predecessor. The QX80 competes in the market against vehicles such as the Lexus LX570, Cadillac Escalade, Lincoln Navigator, and of course, its sibling, the Nissan Patrol LE Platinum. Let’s delve deeper into the new Infiniti QX80 and explore its standout specifications and features.

Exterior Design

The 2018 Infiniti QX80 features a clear exterior update while maintaining the general form we've seen in previous models. The front grille now embodies the design language of other Infiniti vehicles, characterized by its wavy lines and the curved frame of the grille, adorned with ample chrome accents across the front. This year's QX80 is equipped with full LED lighting, including daytime running lights and fog lights, all utilizing LED technology.

At the rear, the vehicle also boasts LED taillights complemented by a chrome strip displaying the Infiniti name, along with a metallic guard for the rear trunk lip that opens electronically via the key fob.

Interior Design

Let’s start with the quality of materials used within the cabin. The 2018 QX80 features high-quality leather on the seats, with a wavy design echoed on both the seats and the doors, similar to the grille's pattern. The leather is complemented by stitching on the dashboard, doors, and seats, as well as wood accents throughout the cabin and on the steering wheel, combined with soft-touch materials across all areas.

If you're choosing from the available interior colors, I particularly appreciated the dual-tone leather option in brown and black, which enhances the cabin's luxury feel. However, I noticed that the current design and the layout of buttons on the dashboard and steering wheel are starting to feel outdated compared to other 2018 models.

Technological Features

The 2018 Infiniti QX80 comes equipped with an extensive list of features, including:

Keyless ignition
Keyless entry and start
Intouch infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen
Navigation system with Bluetooth connectivity for mobile phones
Bose audio system with 15 speakers

The vehicle also includes two USB ports for charging mobile devices and dual controls for heated and cooled leather seats.

Driving Experience

Upon driving the 2018 QX80, I realized that Infiniti has placed a strong emphasis on comfort and luxurious driving experience. With an exceptionally light steering wheel, maneuvering this large SUV became remarkably easy.

Conclusion

The Infiniti QX80 is a luxurious SUV designed to accommodate eight passengers with outstanding features. However, I believe that Infiniti should focus more on updating the interior design and enhancing the technology used to distinguish it from its competitor, the Nissan Patrol.