2021 INFINITI QX80 vs 2020 Honda CR-V

The 2020 Honda CR-V, part of Honda's fifth generation of compact crossovers, had a design that was both familiar and enjoyable. Its exterior styling was characterized by soft, curvy lines that gave it a car-like appearance, closely resembling Honda's sedan lineup. This design approach made the CR-V a modern family vehicle, with an exterior that leaned more towards a station wagon than a traditional SUV. However, the interior told a different story, with a mix of textures and materials that didn't always harmonize. While higher trims featured upscale touches like wood-look trim and leather upholstery, these elements clashed with some lower-quality plastics, reminding drivers that even the pricier CR-V models were essentially upgraded versions of a commodity car.

In contrast, the 2021 INFINITI QX80 showcased a blend of Nissan Armada and Infiniti styling elements, with a body-on-frame construction that set it apart from many modern SUVs. The QX80's front end was distinctly Infiniti, featuring a grille and headlight design that gave it an assertive yet not overly flashy look. Standard LED lighting and large alloy wheels added to its presence. Inside, the QX80's interior was luxurious, with wood trim and semi-aniline leather upholstery, although it retained some Nissan elements, such as the dashboard shape and switchgear. Despite its luxury, the interior didn't offer the exclusivity some buyers might expect, and the foot-operated parking brake felt out of place in a high-end vehicle.

The 2020 Honda CR-V was equipped with a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine, producing 190 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). This powertrain provided a well-matched driving experience, with the CVT offering a credible imitation of a conventional automatic transmission. The CR-V's road manners were excellent, with nimble handling and a firm yet comfortable chassis. Its lightweight design contributed to its agility and fuel efficiency, with FWD models rated at 7.7 litres per 100 kilometres combined and AWD models at 8.1, making it one of the most efficient in its class.

In comparison, the 2021 INFINITI QX80 featured a robust 5.6-litre V8 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission. While the engine was responsive, the transmission shifts were less smooth. The QX80's body-on-frame construction provided a truck-like ride, but its independent suspension and Hydraulic Body Motion Control on ProACTIVE models ensured a comfortable experience. Despite its size, the QX80's speed-sensitive power steering offered precision, although it wasn't designed for aggressive cornering. The QX80 excelled in towing and off-road capabilities, with a maximum towing capacity of 3,855 kilograms and a 4WD drivetrain with low range.

The 2020 Honda CR-V was known for its masterful packaging, offering a spacious cabin comparable to the Volkswagen Tiguan. It provided excellent head- and legroom, with a smart seating position that enhanced visibility. The cargo compartment was roomy, with a two-position load floor allowing for versatile storage options. Clever storage solutions, such as a deep centre console and large door pockets, made the CR-V practical for everyday use.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80, a three-row SUV, came standard with a seven-seat configuration, with an option for eight seats on the ProACTIVE grade. It featured power-adjustable front seats with heating and cooling, although the cushions lacked thigh support. Passenger space was competitive, with ample room in all three rows. Cargo space was generous, with 470 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,694 litres with the second and third rows folded. However, it trailed behind competitors like the Cadillac Escalade in terms of cargo capacity. The QX80 offered a power liftgate and power-folding third row for convenience.

The 2020 Honda CR-V's infotainment system showed its age, with a standard 7-inch touchscreen that felt small compared to competitors. The system lacked hard buttons, making it challenging to operate, although Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard. The CR-V offered plenty of USB ports, with a wireless phone charger available on higher trims.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 featured the Infiniti InTouch dual-screen infotainment system, with 8.0-inch and 7.0-inch touchscreens, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 17-speaker Bose audio system. While the system included analog controls, the user interface was not intuitive. The QX80 offered helpful tech like the Smart Rearview Mirror and Around View Monitor, enhancing visibility and safety.

The 2020 Honda CR-V came with the "Honda Sensing" suite of safety features as standard, including forward-collision warning, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. It earned a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS, with some caveats for lower trims. A recall for a rear subframe failure affected a small number of vehicles.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with standard safety features like blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The ProACTIVE grade added Backup Collision Intervention and Blind Spot Intervention. The IIHS did not test the QX80.