2021 INFINITI QX80 vs 2022 GMC Terrain

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 showcased a blend of Nissan Armada and Infiniti design elements, maintaining a body-on-frame construction that was reminiscent of its Nissan sibling. Its profile, with a distinctive roofline and rear window curve, was shared with the Armada, while the front fenders featured similar vents. However, the QX80's front end was distinctly Infiniti, with a grille and headlight design that aligned with other Infiniti SUVs, giving it an assertive yet not overly aggressive appearance. Standard LED lighting and large alloy wheels added to its luxury appeal, while the interior, though luxurious with wood trim and leather upholstery, retained a recognizably Nissan layout, which might have disappointed those seeking exclusivity.

In contrast, the 2022 GMC Terrain received updates to its front styling, wheel designs, and interior trim, with the new AT4 trim level offering a bolder look with black alloy wheels and a steel skid plate for off-road protection. The test model featured a black leather interior and was equipped with several packages, including a Tech Package and Infotainment Package II, raising its price significantly. Despite its entry-level status, the Terrain offered a roomy interior with various storage solutions, though some design choices, like the pushbutton transmission controls, were less intuitive. The Terrain's interior materials and execution did not fully meet expectations for its price range, despite the upscale appearance of the AT4's leather upholstery.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a 5.6-litre V8 engine producing 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. In Canada, it came standard with four-wheel drive. The V8 provided ample power for highway overtaking, though the transmission shifts were not as smooth as expected. The QX80's body-on-frame construction, combined with independent suspension and Hydraulic Body Motion Control on ProACTIVE models, offered a comfortable ride, though it felt less composed in corners. Its towing capacity of 3,855 kilograms was impressive, but its off-road capabilities were limited by its size and wheel-and-tire combinations.

The 2022 GMC Terrain featured a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque, mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. While the engine's power delivery required some adjustment, the turbocharging helped it perform well at elevation. The Terrain's four-wheel independent suspension and 17-inch wheels provided a smooth ride on various surfaces, though it exhibited more body motion than preferred. Off-road, the Terrain AT4's ground clearance and skid plate were insufficient for serious off-roading, and its sport-terrain tires lacked grip in corners. The Terrain's fuel economy was commendable, matching official ratings during testing.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 offered a seven-seat configuration with second-row captain’s chairs, or an eight-seat option on the ProACTIVE grade. The front seats were power-adjustable with heating and cooling, though they lacked thigh support. Passenger space was competitive, with ample room in the third row, but cargo space was limited compared to competitors like the Cadillac Escalade. The QX80 featured a power liftgate and power-folding third row, but storage solutions in the front were limited.

The 2022 GMC Terrain provided a roomy interior with power-adjustable front seats, heated features, and dual-zone climate control. The AT4 trim included perforated leather upholstery with contrast stitching, offering an upscale feel. The back seat was spacious, with ample legroom and a rear USB charging port. The Terrain's cargo space was generous, with 838 litres behind the second row and 1,792 litres with the rear seat folded. Additional storage solutions were integrated throughout the interior, though some were not ideally shaped for practical use.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 came with the Infiniti InTouch dual-screen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 17-speaker Bose audio system. The system included a rear-seat entertainment setup and various controls, though the user interface was not intuitive. The Smart Rearview Mirror and Around View Monitor added convenience and safety.

The 2022 GMC Terrain offered two infotainment systems, with the larger 8-inch touchscreen available on higher trims. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and OnStar services. The Infotainment Package II added connected navigation and a Bose audio system, with excellent voice recognition capabilities. The Tech Package included a head-up display and parking sensors, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with standard safety features like blind-spot monitoring and automatic emergency braking. The ProACTIVE grade added advanced features like Backup Collision Intervention.

The 2022 GMC Terrain came standard with the GMC Pro Safety Package, including forward-collision warning and lane-keeping assist. The Pro Safety Plus Package added adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. The IIHS awarded the Terrain mostly "Good" crash-test scores, though it received a "Marginal" rating in a new side-impact test.