First Drive: Infiniti QX80 Autograph 4WD

by Michael Satterfield - Photos via Infiniti - 09/10/2024

This last week, I drove the 2025 Infiniti QX80 Autograph 4WD, Infiniti’s flagship SUV. It is a bold entry that aims to compete in the luxury full-size SUV segment. With a price tag of $112,000, this three-row behemoth doesn’t shy away from competing against established players like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. While I found the quality, ride, and technology impressive, I also couldn't help but wonder if the market will embrace a $112,000 Infiniti in a segment where the brand cachet carries significant weight at the valet stand.

The QX80 greets you with an imposing presence. Its bold front grille, muscular proportions, and LED lighting give it a strong road presence. Inside, it’s immediately apparent that Infiniti has elevated the interior craftsmanship. The cabin is appointed with quilted semi-aniline leather, real wood accents, and brushed metal trim, exuding a sense of refinement and sophistication. The three rows offer ample space, with power-reclining second-row captain's chairs and a spacious third row that can comfortably accommodate adults, something that not all three-row SUVs can claim.

The build quality left a lasting impression. Every surface feels premium, and attention to detail is clear throughout the cabin. There’s a sense that this is a vehicle designed for those who appreciate luxury, comfort, and the finer things in life. The fit and finish rival its more established luxury competitors, and I was particularly struck by the hushed, serene cabin, which effectively isolates road noise.

The QX80 is powered by a 5.6-liter V8 engine that delivers 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides plenty of grunt for passing, merging, or towing (with a towing capacity of 8,500 pounds), but it does have a tendency to gulp down fuel. The ride quality is where the QX80 truly shines. Equipped with hydraulic body motion control, the SUV remains composed and smooth, even over rough patches of road. It feels surprisingly nimble for its size, with well-weighted steering and minimal body roll, making it easy to maneuver in both urban settings and on highways. The suspension system does an excellent job of absorbing imperfections, delivering a ride that is buttery smooth.

However, while I was impressed with the power and overall driving dynamics, the market might have reservations about the dated platform. The QX80 still shares underpinnings with the Nissan Armada, and despite Infiniti’s efforts to modernize the interior and tech, it doesn’t have the same cutting-edge undercarriage as rivals like the Escalade or Navigator, which have moved to more modern architectures.

Infiniti’s attention to technology in the Autograph 4WD is commendable, though there are a few caveats. The centerpiece is a 12.3-inch touchscreen with sharp graphics, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration. The system is intuitive and quick to respond, though it lacks the polished, integrated feel of some German competitors' systems. Additionally, rear-seat passengers are treated to an entertainment system with dual 8-inch screens, perfect for keeping kids occupied on long journeys.

Driver assistance features are also comprehensive, with a full suite of safety technologies, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera. These features enhance the driving experience, making the QX80 feel secure and well-equipped for long-haul cruising.

While the 2025 Autograph 4WD delivers a plush, capable, and feature-packed experience, its pricing presents a challenge. With a starting price around $109,900 and crossing $112,000 with options, Infiniti is asking for a premium that’s typically associated with brands known for their long-standing luxury heritage. Buyers in this segment often gravitate towards brands like Cadillac, Lincoln, or Range Rover, which have an established reputation for ultra-luxury SUVs. Infiniti, while luxurious, has historically been seen as more of a premium brand rather than a true luxury leader. This could pose a problem when potential buyers cross-shop and see that the QX80, despite its merits, doesn’t have the same badge prestige as some of its competitors.

That said, the Infiniti QX80 Autograph 4WD delivers an impressive package of comfort, performance, and technology. It’s a well-executed vehicle that will appeal to those who want a full-size luxury SUV but aren’t tied to more traditional luxury brands. However, convincing buyers to part with $112,000 for an Infiniti in a fiercely competitive market where badge perception plays such a crucial role may be an uphill battle.

The 2025 Infiniti QX80 Autograph is an impressive offering in terms of quality, ride comfort, and technology. It brings a luxurious feel and capable performance to the table, along with plenty of space and a well-appointed interior. However, its biggest hurdle will be convincing buyers that it deserves a place alongside the Escalades and Navigators of the world, especially at its price point. Infiniti’s challenge is to prove that the QX80 offers a compelling alternative in a market dominated by brands with long-standing luxury credentials.