2026 Infiniti QX80 Review: Somewhere Between an Armada and an Escalade

      The completely redesigned 2026 INFINITI QX80 redefines the luxury SUV category. Its advanced technology, meticulously crafted design, and high-quality craftsmanship elevate INFINITI’s flagship vehicle.

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      When the revamped Infiniti QX80 debuted two years ago, our review described it as a bold move, and it proved successful. However, time continues to pass. Lincoln has released a new Navigator, while Cadillac and Jeep have refreshed their SUVs. As the 2026 model year arrives, are consumers still interested in Infiniti’s premium offering?

      Overview

      In its second year, Infiniti made no major updates to the QX80, keeping the mechanics the same as the 2024 model. This three-row family SUV can be outfitted with dual bench seating for up to eight passengers, or second-row captain's chairs to seat seven comfortably and stylishly.

      Infiniti hasn’t shied away from the QX80’s connection to the more understated Nissan Armada, which itself is based on the global Nissan Patrol. While Infiniti used to emphasize this distinction more, when competing against the Cadillac Escalade, resembling a traditional truck isn’t necessarily a drawback.

      The rugged exterior might suggest an overly flashy vehicle, yet the interior feels refreshingly understated. Regular enthusiasts of the bold interiors from Infiniti’s earlier days may find this new approach somewhat restrained. Regardless of personal taste, the QX80 scores fairly well in terms of usability. The mix of digital and traditional controls isn’t flawless, but it's a reasonable trade-off. A column-mounted gear shifter would be preferable over console push-buttons, which can seem a bit trivial.

      Driving the 2026 Infiniti QX80

      Though the QX80 has traded its V8 for a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 that produces 450 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, this is more than sufficient to navigate this large SUV. Weighing around 6,000 pounds depending on the configuration, the QX80 can tow an impressive 8,500 pounds.

      While its size is undeniable, the engine performs well enough to make the weight feel manageable, and the brakes are dependable. Maneuvering the QX80 in a parking lot can be challenging due to its dimensions, but it never feels unmanageable; it’s simply a significant vehicle.

      Is that substantial feel echoed outside the vehicle? As someone with an interest in architecture, I enjoy what I call the “Nextdoor test.” It may sound sophisticated, yet it’s simply an excuse to take photos of nice cars in appealing neighborhoods. I choose areas with beautiful homes, drive there, and step out to snap pictures of the vehicle near appealing scenery. Rest assured, I'm not sharing your address with the public; at most, I might offer a glimpse of your Japanese Maple.

      The test got its name from its potential downfall: being reported as a “suspicious person” on platforms like Nextdoor. To my knowledge, no vehicle I’ve “tested” has encountered such a spectacular failure. Typically, I’ll be approached by curious locals, often to inquire about the car rather than my presence. Recently, a local photographer stopped to direct me to better photo spots in the area.

      I must admit, I had some worries about the QX80. It’s quite large, and in metro Detroit, dominated by Escalades, you’re more likely to stand out in something else. Moreover, it was a shade of blue, which isn’t particularly eye-catching. Infiniti labels it “Grand Blue,” reminiscent of colors seen in contemporary kitchens. I'm a millennial and, to clarify, we inherited our slate-blue floor tiles from the previous owner.

      In addition to everything being an Escalade, most are black. Even in a champion-filled state, the blue cars often feature a red cherry on top—not because it’s the state fruit. However, my concerns quickly dissipated. The QX80 garnered positive responses—either friendly waves or indifference. No invitations to socialize were extended, but thankfully, there were no alarms raised either.

      Positives and Negatives

      Driving the QX80 is genuinely enjoyable. If I had the choice, I would likely opt for smaller 20- or 21-inch wheels (the Autograph comes with 22s) to enhance comfort. This SUV isn’t designed for sporty handling; it could benefit from being less sensitive to road imperfections. Overall, the 2025 redesign is holding up well. The interior may not be a showstopper, but it's well-fitted and user-friendly.

      The QX80’s main challenge lies in the existence of the Nissan Armada. While equipping the Nissan to match the comfort of a base QX80 requires a higher investment, its availability with air suspension makes climbing the trim ladder worthwhile. There's still a $10,000 gap between the high-end Armada