When INFINITI renamed its models this year, the old QX56 emerged as the new QX80. The full-size SUV continues to offer a unique combination of power, strength and luxury. It's capable of transporting up to eight adults and their belongings in spacious elegance, running errands around town, or handling rugged tasks such as towing boats and trailers—there's an 8,500-pound capacity when properly equipped.
What's New for 2014
INFINITI added the advanced Backup Collision Intervention (BCI) system to the Technology Package. Also new are minor trim changes and the addition of several new colors.
Choosing Your QX80
A 400-horsepower 5.6-liter V8 with a seven-speed automatic transmission powers all QX80s. Key standard equipment includes leather seating, a Class IV tow hitch, a Bose stereo with 13 speakers, tri-zone automatic climate control, a moonroof, hard-drive navigation, and an around-view monitor with moving object detection and front and rear sonar systems. At no extra cost, the Split Bench Seat Package increases seating capacity from seven to eight with a second-row 60/40 split bench seat.
Your main choice is between rear-wheel and all-wheel drive.
QX80 4x2
The rear-wheel drive model should suit buyers who don't live with inclement weather. It's less expensive by around $3,000 and weighs less than a four-wheel drive model, so gets better mileage.QX80 4x4
If you live with rain, snow and sleet—or typically drive on unpaved roads—a four-wheel drive QX80 makes plenty of sense.You can also enhance the QX80 experience with a variety of option groups:
- Theater Package with dual 7-inch color monitors, heated second-row seats, remote tip-up second-row seats, and plenty of jacks for multimedia interface.
- Tire and Wheel Package with 22-inch nine-spoke forged aluminum-alloy wheels with 275/50R22 all-season performance tires.
- Deluxe Touring Package with hydraulic body motion control, a Bose Surround Sound system with 15 speakers, mocha burl trim, an advanced climate control system, climate-controlled front seats and headlight washers.
- Technology Package with intelligent cruise control, distance control assist, blind spot warning and intervention systems, lane departure warning and lane departure prevention, and intelligent brake assist with forward collision warning.
Unless you need 4x4 capabilities, a 4x2 QX80 is more than up to the challenge for most families.