2021 Honda CR-V vs 2022 INFINITI QX80

The 2021 Honda CR-V, while functional, did not stand out in the crowded compact crossover market. Its design was similar to many of its competitors, with few distinguishing features. The grille and some chromed plastic elements were the only notable differences. Colour options were limited, with many shades of grey, black, and white dominating the palette. The interior offered a modern look with angular seats and a choice of materials depending on the trim level. However, competitors like the Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson offered more distinctive styling, especially in mid-tier trims.

In contrast, the 2022 INFINITI QX80 shared its platform with the Nissan Armada, yet managed to maintain a unique identity with its distinctive Infiniti grille and tasteful use of chrome. The QX80's exterior was further enhanced by stylish 22-inch dark chrome alloy wheels. Inside, the QX80 featured upscale materials, including quilted semi-aniline leather seats and wood trim. Despite its luxurious appearance, the QX80's interior design was beginning to show its age compared to other premium full-size SUVs, which offered more modern and advanced features.

The 2021 Honda CR-V was not designed for high-performance thrills but rather for smooth and steady driving. It featured a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 190 horsepower, with acceleration to 100 km/h in about 8 seconds. All trims shared the same continuously variable transmission (CVT), which provided a consistent driving experience but lacked the engagement of conventional transmissions found in competitors like the Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson. The CR-V offered front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available on higher trims, similar to most of its rivals.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80, on the other hand, boasted a powerful 400-horsepower, 5.6-litre V8 engine with 413 lb-ft of torque. This engine delivered robust performance and a satisfying exhaust note, though it was thirsty for premium fuel. The seven-speed automatic transmission provided smooth and seamless shifts, enhancing the driving experience. The QX80's four-wheel drive system, based on the Nissan Patrol, offered impressive off-road capability, with a computer-controlled transfer case and ample ground clearance. Its towing capacity of 3,855 kilograms was generous, making it suitable for hauling large trailers or boats.

The 2021 Honda CR-V prioritized functionality, offering ample interior space for five passengers and their gear. It provided over 100 litres more interior volume than the Toyota RAV4, with 1,065 litres of cargo space when the rear seats were folded. Depending on the trim, the CR-V featured manual, power, or hands-free tailgate operation. Roof rails were standard on most trims, enhancing its practicality for carrying additional cargo.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 required a climb to enter due to its tall ride height, but once inside, it offered a spacious and airy cabin. It could accommodate up to eight passengers with a second-row bench seat or seven with captain's chairs. However, the third-row seating was cramped for adults. Cargo space was limited compared to competitors, with 470 litres behind the third row and 2,694 litres with all seats folded. The power-operated liftgate and third-row seats were convenient but slow to operate.

The 2021 Honda CR-V came equipped with a 7-inch high-definition touchscreen infotainment system, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto connectivity. Lower trims had varying audio setups, while the Touring trim featured a 300-watt system with a subwoofer. Charging ports were abundant, with USB and 12-volt outlets throughout the cabin. The Touring trim also included a wireless phone charger.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 featured a new 12.3-inch Infiniti InTouch infotainment system with Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. A Bose 17-speaker premium sound system was standard, along with multiple USB ports and a wireless smartphone charger. The dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system was a nice touch, though the lack of HDMI adapters was a drawback. The absence of Infiniti's ProPilot Assist was notable, as it limited the QX80's advanced driver-assistance capabilities.

The 2021 Honda CR-V excelled in safety, earning a five-star NHTSA overall crash test rating and an IIHS Top Safety Pick award. It featured the Honda Sensing system, which included a suite of advanced safety features as standard on all trims. These included a multi-angle rearview camera, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. The only feature not standard on the base trim was blind spot monitoring.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 offered a comprehensive set of standard safety features, including forward automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-departure warning. Additional features included driver attention alert and front knee airbags. However, the QX80's crashworthiness ratings were less impressive, with a three-star rating for rollover resistance from the NHTSA and no IIHS ratings available.