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Out with our kids and grandkids on a trip to Hogle Zoo featuring the all-new Infiniti QX80. Perfect weather made for a great ride and an awesome afternoon at the zoo. Back left to right: Landon Conover, Michelle Conover and Deanne; front left to right: Hayden Conover and Jensen Conover.
Craig Conover, Daily Herald
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Craig and Deanne with the grandkids, Hayden and Jensen Conover, after the perfect afternoon at the Hogle Zoo in Salt Lake City.
Craig Conover, Daily Herald
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Deanne loads groceries into the all-new Infiniti QX80 after a trip to Costco. We found that the shelf in the back fit the box perfectly, with room for other items on the shelf.
Craig Conover, Daily Herald
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Inside the 2025 Infiniti QX80.
Courtesy photo
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Inside the 2025 Infiniti QX80.
Courtesy photo
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Inside the 2025 Infiniti QX80.
Courtesy photo
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The 2025 Infiniti QX80.
Courtesy photo
There’s something about driving a full-size luxury SUV that makes every journey feel like a special occasion, and the 2025 Infiniti QX80 Autograph certainly lived up to our expectations in that regard. When the fleet service delivered the QX80 for our weeklong test, we were eager to see if the latest iteration of this premium three-row SUV could blend refinement, power and practicality into an irresistible package.
We figured, what would be a better way to put it through its paces than a trip up to Hogle Zoo in Salt Lake City with our son Landon, his wife, Michelle, and our two energetic grandkids, Jensen and Hayden? If there was ever a test of comfort, space and performance, what would be more perfect than filling every seat for a journey?
First impressions
The new QX80 has a striking and large presence, commanding attention with its bold grille, sleek LED headlights and round, sculpted body lines that did a fine job of making a large SUV look elegant. Infiniti has done a commendable job in refining the QX80’s exterior with the new version, giving it an upscale yet rugged appeal. Our test model, finished in a rich Coulis Red with black accents, exuded sophistication from every angle.
Under the hood
At the heart of the 2025 QX80 was a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 engine producing an impressive 450 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. Infiniti has replaced the outgoing naturally aspirated V-8 with this more efficient yet more powerful unit, and the difference was noticeable from our first time out in the QX80.
Power delivery was smooth, and acceleration very brisk for a vehicle of its size. Whether merging onto the freeway or climbing the steep inclines toward the zoo, the QX80 had no trouble delivering confident bursts of power. Paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission that shifted smoothly and contributed to improved fuel efficiency.
Speaking of fuel economy, we managed an average of 18 mpg during our week with the SUV. While not groundbreaking, it’s a notable improvement over the outgoing V-8 model and quite respectable for a full-size, three-row luxury SUV. On our highway cruise to Salt Lake City, we saw figures closer to 20 mpg thanks to the engine’s ability to cruise effortlessly at lower RPMs.
Luxurious cabin and comfort
Inside, the QX80 Autograph was all about indulgence. Infiniti has stepped up its game with soft quilted leather seats, open-pore wood trim and a new 14.3-inch infotainment screen that anchored the dashboard. The infotainment system was crisp and easy to use, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it easy to navigate and play music during the week.
Seating in the QX80 was the true highlight. The front seats were heated, ventilated and incredibly supportive, making long drives a pleasure. In the second row, captain’s chairs provide excellent comfort for Landon and Michelle, while the kids had plenty of room in the third row. Even with a full house, everyone had ample legroom, and the large, panoramic sunroof allowed for an airy, open feel.
New this year, all three rows are heated, which the grandkids got a real kick out of, along with a unique climate control for the second row that kept Mom and Dad as happy as could be.
Cargo and practicality
For families on the go, cargo space is a crucial factor, and the QX80 did not disappoint us. With all three rows in place, we still had enough room for backpacks and a cooler packed with snacks. The power-folding third row is a great convenience, and when stowed, it opens up a cavernous 95 cubic feet of cargo space — ideal for larger hauls.
We also made a Costco run during the week and found the included removable shelf in the back very useful with the box we had fit under it and other items lining the shelf for the ride home.
Driving dynamics
Despite its size, the QX80 proved to be surprisingly agile. The revised suspension system provided a smooth ride, absorbing road imperfections with ease. On the highway, it glided along effortlessly, while in the city, it remained composed and easy to maneuver thanks to light steering and a 360-degree camera system that made parking in tight spots a breeze. The SUV’s adaptive suspension also helped in cornering, preventing excessive body roll and making it feel more planted than we would have expected from such a large vehicle.
Infiniti had also equipped the QX80 with a full suite of driver-assistance features: ProPILOT Assist 2.1, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist and automatic emergency braking. These features proved invaluable on our trip, reducing fatigue and making our highway drive more relaxed.
At the end of the week
After a week with the 2025 Infiniti QX80 Autograph, it was more than clear that Infiniti has created a luxury SUV that caters to families who want space, power and luxury. The powerful new twin-turbo V-6 provided ample power while improving efficiency, the interior was pure first-class and the ride quality made every journey enjoyable. It excelled in keeping our family comfortable on our day trip to the zoo, proving to be both a capable road-tripper and a practical everyday vehicle.
For those in the market for a high-end, full-size SUV, the QX80 Autograph offers a compelling blend of luxury, performance and practicality. While some competitors may offer newer platforms or hybrid powertrains, Infiniti’s flagship SUV remains a solid contender for those who value comfort and capability in a stylish package.
Base price: $109,900
Destination charge: $1,995
Price as driven: $114,845
