Last month I found myself behind the wheel of the 2018 redesigned Infiniti QX80.The idea of a full sized, incredibly capable and still super luxurious SUV, now sounds more appealing to me.  With my 29ft travel trailer I see these vehicles in a new light.   Not many vehicles fit into this category; a handsome and also equally extravagant workhorse. The other players in this category include the Lincoln Navigator, Land Rover Range Rover, Mercedes Benz GLS and Lexus LX.

This updated model is now more aligned with the rest of the new Infiniti vehicles. The larger grill, new front fascia and raised LED headlights create a more modern appearance. The lower section of the front bumper is also raised, creating a higher centre of gravity. Overall, the new styling gives it a more balanced appearance.

A new colour palette is offered for 2018, as well as new designs for the aluminum alloy wheels. The 20-inch wheels feature a new six spoke design, while the 22-inch wheels are painted in liquid metal giving it a gorgeous high-glossy finish. A good looking set of tires will add the  finishing touch when it comes to exterior design. 

Intended to look great cruising through the city or, when working hard while towing.  Infiniti placed the hitch under a panel on the back bumper. Previous models required a screw driver and a bit of effort to expose the hitch. Thankfully, I was able to unscrew the cover with my hands. It is bit dirty, but other wise, a simple task. Being able to remove and replace it effortlessly, means you don’t have to sacrifice the luxurious appearance during the times you are not bringing your toys.

The large size is daunting. Despite this, it is amazingly easy to drive with full assurance behind the wheel. It is easy to forget that under this delicately crafted SUV is a work horse, with a traditional body-on-frame SUV.

There’s no change to the engine in QX80 this year.  It is still powered by Infiniti’s capable 32-valve direct-injected 5.6-liter V8. Delivering 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm.  You can push it hard and it responds unfazed. 

Body roll is zero.  At every corner and on every bend, the QX80s unique Hydraulic Body Motion Control keeps the ride flat. High speeds or sharp bends; nothing seems to rock this SUV.  It floats over every surface. Modifications to the tire wall allows the vehicle to absorb even the smallest vibrations when cruising over rocky or rugged surfaces.

Standard on every model is a smooth-shifting seven speed automatic transmission. The power train is also refined. It does an impressive job of moving this SUV around with zero fuss.

It was easy to take off!

I had hoped to take my travel trailer for a trip away with this SUV. Unfortunately, no electronic brake controller is available. You will need to purchase one from a third party, and they are fairly inexpensive. This made me ponder for a moment.  By law, in most Canada Provinces, it is required to have one if you’re towing more than 3,000lbs. This SUV is capable of towing up to 8,500lbs, hence it seems if this small detail has been overlooked. With such an impressive towing capacity, it is a shame it is unequipped with this simple piece of technology.  The hitch cover comes off easily, with not tools required. 

When it comes to keeping you and your family safe and confident, every detail on this SUV is first class. It has a long list of standard safety and technology features. In fact, the Infiniti brand has led the way with several of the worlds-first proactive safety innovations; Backup Collision Intervention and Lane Departure Warning for example. These safety innovations assist the driver to respond promptly to prevent accidents/hazards on the road. 

J.D. Power and Associates rated the QX80 first among large premium SUVs in their 2017 Initial Quality Study.

The girl in me loves the new ‘digital’ mirror. It allows the driver to use the rear-view mirror as a standard mirror, or to turn it into a monitor. With the touch of a button, a camera mounted in the upper rear windshield displays a video. This means you can see behind the car even when blocked by ice or snow.

The base price is just over $77,000.  For me, the technology package for an additional $8150 is a must have.  It gives you all the safety features I described plus chrome mirror caps, adaptive front lights, advanced climate control and 22” forged aluminum alloy wheels.  Bringing the price to just under $90,000.

While we are talking about price.  Did you know that this QX80 is the upscale version of the Nissan Armada?  No, the Nissan brand wont have the same brand appeal as Infiniti.  However, these two vehicles share the same power train, platform and engine.  You can purchase a fully loaded Armada for about $15000 less than the equivalent QX80.  The higher price gives you a more luxury label to tell your friends.  For some people that is important.

For current and up to date pricing go directly to the Infinit Website.  https://www.infiniti.ca

Other vehicles in this class are equally impressive in both design and capability.  Able to tow a heavy load and provide comfortable seating for all passengers.   A tough category to choose a clear winner. Sales of this luxury full sized sport utility vehicle  have increased  every month in 2018.  Evidence that consumers are happy with the updates for 2018.   For me, it is the impressive attention to detail and incredibly luxurious ride that puts this QX80 a head of the pack.  A bit disappointed I couldn’t take my trailer for a weekend away this summer.  I will do what I can to get this towing my trailer next year. 

Lacey Lee Elliott