By Jim Prueter
MotorwayAmerica.com

(March 6, 2018) For the 2004 model year, Infiniti, the luxury division of Nissan, introduced its massive SUV, called the QX56. It was an upscale version of the Nissan Pathfinder Armada and a close kin to the Titan V-8 full-size pickup truck.

The second-generation came out in 2010 as a 2011 model, and was renamed QX80 for 2014. That model was refreshed for 2015, met with polarizing scorn mostly for the snub-nosed front end that sent many shoppers away. Now for 2018, Infiniti has updated the QX80 from the A-pillar forward, and improved it to reflect a more contemporary and upscale look. To be sure, the update is just that — not a complete redesign.

There’s a new front fascia, with a wider and more upright grille that rather reminds us of the 2018 Lincoln Navigator and looks genuinely handsome. Even the front fender vents are new. The LED headlights have been slimmed and raised four inches, somewhat mimicking the stylish Q60 coupe. Infiniti calls the look “eye-inspired.” At the rear, taillights and the tailgate have been redesigned to include a wide chrome strip connecting the taillights. We thought it a bit odd, however, that the bumper-mounted turn signals were in a misplaced location.

New 20- and 22-inch wheel designs, and color options — Moonstone White, Mineral Black, and Champagne Quartz — have been added, and a mild interior refresh completes the changes for 2018.

A big disappointment was the sound of the doors when opening and closing. Rather than high quality “thunk” sound it was tinny and hollow sounding like one would find on a sub-$20,000 economy car.

Inside there’s a new and better-looking steering wheel and gear shift knob. There are new leather seating options with three color options including Saddle Brown, Wheat and Graphite, all finished with a handsome and luxurious-looking quilted pattern. Infiniti now uses a new micro-coating on the leather that’s resistant to dirt and stains. Real wood veneers trim the center console and dash.

There’s seating for eight people with the second-row bench, or seven with captain’s chairs. When you choose captain’s chairs, you also get a large center console with USB and charge and HVAC settings for rear passengers.

Also new for 2018 is the Smart Rear View Mirror system, similar to the system on the Cadillac CT6, for improved rearward visibility. Simply push a button and the rearview mirror shows a camera view from the tailgate.

But there’s much that hasn’t changed including the body-on-frame, truck-based chassis that delivers a ride and handling experience that’s far from sporting and precise. The steering, while light to the touch, is vague with little driver communication. Our test model included the $5,700 optional Deluxe Technology Package that, along with an upgraded 15-speaker Bose Cabin Surround System and climate controlled seating, added the Hydraulic Body Motion Control system which replaces the need for anti-roll bars. We couldn’t detect any discernible difference and the QX80 still felt top-heavy and clumsy on the road.

And, there’s no panoramic sunroof that extends to the second and third row seats like those found in competitors. Also missing is a head-up display, massaging seats, a wireless Smartphone charger. And, the QX80 doesn’t offer smartphone integration for Apple CarPlay or Android Auto

Still, the cabin is exceptionally quiet, the ride smooth, plush and comfortable with road and engine noise unobtrusive.

The 5.6L 400 horsepower V-8 engine, connected to a seven-speed automatic transmission is also a carryover. That’s not a bad thing, except for its dismal fuel economy. Power from the naturally aspirated V-8 comes on instantly and this hulking beast moves with imperturbable poise and assurance.

Rear-wheel drive is standard, four-wheel drive optional. Selecting Auto mode on the 4WD system only sends power to the front wheels when the rear wheels detect traction slippage. The 4WD system is also a part-time system, allowing the driver to select 4WD High and 4WD Low ranges. High range locks in the front axles and splits power delivery evenly between the front and rear.

Overall, the updated QX80 falls short of newer and thoroughly upgraded large luxury SUVs like the impressive new Lincoln Navigator, Mercedes-Benz GLS and Land Rover Range Rover. It’s a good-looking vehicle with a powerful engine, comfortable ride and a great looking cabin. But the infotainment and driver assistance technology is far outdated and it lacks other features you can get in most other competitor vehicles.

Vital Stats
Base Price: $64,750 - $67,850
Price as Tested: $84,660
Powertrain: 5.6L 400hp V8 with seven-speed automatic transmission
Fuel Economy: 13-MPG City – 19-MPG Highway
Seating: Up to 8

Crash Test Results: The QX80 has not been crash tested for results by either the NHTSA Or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety

Competes With:
Cadillac Escalade
Land Rover Range Rover
Lexus LX
Lincoln Navigator
Mercedes-Benz GLS

Fab Features
Roomy, comfortable, luxurious cabin
Priced lower than competitors