2021 INFINITI QX80 vs 2022 Genesis GV70

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 showcased a blend of Nissan Armada and Infiniti design elements, with its body-on-frame construction reminiscent of traditional SUVs. Its profile, marked by the roofline and rear window curves, echoed the Armada, while the front-end styling was distinctly Infiniti, featuring a grille and headlight design that lent an assertive yet not overly aggressive look. Standard LED lighting and large alloy wheels added to its luxury appeal, though the interior, despite its luxurious touches like wood trim and leather upholstery, closely resembled the Armada, potentially disappointing those seeking exclusivity.

In contrast, the 2022 Genesis GV70 stood out with its unique styling, diverging from the rest of the Genesis lineup. It featured the brand’s two-line lighting signature, creating a near-continuous circle around the vehicle. The GV70 offered six grades, with the Sport and Sport Plus grades boasting a sculpted hood and dark chrome finishes for a sportier look. Genesis provided a wide array of colour combinations, enhancing the vehicle's distinctiveness. The interior, inspired by airplane wings, featured high-quality materials and unique upholstery configurations, with some trims offering carbon fibre inserts and ambient lighting for a premium feel.

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. It offered standard four-wheel drive in Canada, with independent suspension and Hydraulic Body Motion Control for a comfortable ride. Despite its size, the QX80 managed highway driving well, though it felt less composed in corners. Its body-on-frame construction provided excellent towing and off-road capabilities, with a maximum towing capacity of 3,855 kilograms. However, its size and wheel-and-tire combinations limited its off-road prowess.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 offered two engine options, with the 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 producing 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, with a rear axle bias for improved traction. The Sport Plus grade included an electronic limited-slip differential for enhanced performance. The GV70 offered multiple drive modes, including Sport+ for aggressive driving, though Sport mode was more practical for everyday use. Its electronically controlled suspension provided a balanced ride, and its tight turning radius was advantageous in urban settings.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 offered a three-row seating configuration, with options for seven or eight seats. It featured power-adjustable front seats with heating and cooling, though the cushions lacked thigh support. Passenger space was competitive, with ample room in the third row. Cargo space was limited compared to competitors, with 470 litres behind the third row and 2,694 litres with all rear seats folded. The centre console offered limited storage, and the front-door cupholders were not well-designed for holding drinks.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 prioritized driver-focused design, with a tall centre console and intuitive controls. It featured standard heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, with ventilated seats available on higher trims. The rear offered adjustable legroom and a panoramic sunroof, though storage was limited. Cargo volume was generous, with 819 litres behind the second row and 1,610 litres with seats folded. The tonneau cover could be stowed under the rear load floor, enhancing practicality.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 came with the InTouch dual-screen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 17-speaker Bose audio system. However, the user interface was not intuitive, with small screens and complex controls. The Smart Rearview Mirror and Around View Monitor provided helpful driving aids, enhancing visibility and safety.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 boasted a 14.5-inch infotainment screen with high-resolution graphics and split-screen functionality. It included a 3D digital instrument cluster and a fingerprint recognition system for keyless start. The premium Lexicon audio system and Blind View Monitor added to its technological appeal, though the infotainment system was slightly slow to respond.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with standard features like blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The ProACTIVE grade added advanced safety technologies, though the IIHS had not tested the vehicle.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 included ten standard safety features, such as blind spot collision avoidance and lane-keeping assist. It introduced a rear occupant alert system and the Highway Driving Assist system, which offered lane centring and automatic lane changing. Safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not available at the time of publication.