2021 INFINITI QX80 vs 2021 Hyundai Palisade

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy distinguished itself with a unique grille pattern, revised exterior lighting, and additional lower body trim. It featured unique 20-inch wheels and upgraded interior detailing, including a simulated suede interior headliner. In 2020, some of these features were standard with the Limited trim level, which in 2021 adopted an exterior look similar to the Palisade SEL with the Convenience or Premium option packages. The Calligraphy trim made the Palisade appear more luxurious, drawing attention with its unconventional styling. Inside, the Calligraphy’s cabin, with its Beige over Navy Blue color scheme and premium Nappa leather, was considered a bargain for its class, rivaling the Kia Telluride SX Prestige in luxury.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 combined Nissan Armada and Infiniti styling elements, maintaining a body-on-frame construction. Its front-end styling, introduced in 2018, gave it an assertive look with standard LED headlights, taillights, and fog lights. The QX80’s interior, while luxurious with wood trim and leather upholstery, closely resembled the Armada’s design. The dashboard and switchgear were similar, and it featured a foot-operated parking brake. Despite its luxury, the QX80’s interior might have disappointed those seeking exclusivity, as it felt more like a dressed-up Nissan than a distinct Infiniti.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade was equipped with a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, with an optional all-wheel-drive system. It offered Eco, Comfort, Smart, and Sport driving modes, with AWD models adding a Snow mode and a Lock function for improved traction. The Palisade AWD had an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 21 mpg combined, and our test vehicle averaged 21.1 mpg. The Palisade’s firmer suspension provided excellent body-motion control, making it enjoyable to drive, though not outright fun. It had a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, with a new seven-pin trailer pre-wiring connector for 2021.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 featured a 5.6-liter V8 engine with 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive was standard, with a $3,100 option for 4WD. The QX80’s independent suspension and Hydraulic Body Motion Control provided a comfortable ride, though it felt less composed in corners. Its body-on-frame construction offered advantages in towing and off-road capability, with a maximum towing capacity of 8,500 pounds. However, its size and wheel-and-tire combinations limited its off-road prowess compared to competitors like the Lexus LX and Land Rover Range Rover.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade offered a spacious and accessible interior, with eight-way power-adjustable front seats and heated and ventilated front and second-row seats. The third-row seat was more accommodating than most in its class, with separate climate controls and sunshades. The Palisade provided ample in-cabin storage, with a cargo space of 18 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 86.4 cubic feet with the second-row seats folded. Its hands-free Smart Liftgate added convenience, though it could be disabled if desired.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 came standard with a seven-seat configuration, with an optional eight-seat setup. It featured a 10-way power driver’s seat and an eight-way front passenger’s seat, though the front seats lacked thigh support. Passenger space was competitive, with enough room for adults in the third row. Cargo space measured 16.6 cubic feet with all seats in place, expanding to 95.1 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The QX80’s center console offered limited storage, and the front-door cupholders were not well-designed for holding drinks.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade offered two infotainment systems, with 8-inch and 10.25-inch touchscreen displays. Both systems could pair two smartphones to Bluetooth simultaneously, though only the 8-inch setup offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Calligraphy trim included a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, navigation, and Blue Link connected services. Other features included wireless smartphone charging, a Driver Talk intercom system, and a Quiet Mode. A head-up display and surround-view camera system were also available.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 featured the Infiniti InTouch dual-screen infotainment system, with 8.0-inch and 7.0-inch touchscreens, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a built-in WiFi hotspot. The system included a 13-speaker Bose audio system, with an optional 17-speaker system and rear-seat entertainment package. The user interface was complex, with multiple controls and small screens. The Smart Rearview Mirror and Around View Monitor provided additional driving assistance.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade excelled in safety, with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping systems. It featured a rear occupant alert system and active blind-spot and rear cross-traffic warning systems. The Highway Drive Assist provided adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance. The Palisade earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with three free years of Blue Link services for emergency assistance.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with five stars for side crash tests and three stars for rollover. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features were standard, unlike many luxury brands.