2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer vs 2021 INFINITI QX80

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 showcased a blend of Nissan Armada and Infiniti design elements, maintaining a body-on-frame construction that was shared with the Armada. This construction was evident in the roofline profile and the rear window curve, along with the front fender vents. The QX80's front end was distinctly Infiniti, featuring a grille and headlight design that aligned with other Infiniti SUVs, offering an assertive yet not overly aggressive appearance. Standard LED lighting and wheel options varied across trim levels, with the interior echoing the Armada's design but enhanced with wood trim and leather upholstery. Despite its luxurious feel, the interior lacked exclusivity, with some elements like the foot-operated parking brake feeling less premium.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer, sharing its frame and body shell with the standard Wagoneer, presented traditional SUV styling with a tall hood and broad shoulders. It differentiated itself with a black roof and unique grille design, featuring laser-etched knurling. The Grand Wagoneer boasted a new body-on-frame architecture with independent suspension and weight-saving materials like an aluminum hood. Inside, it offered high-end features such as 24-way power front seats, Nappa leather upholstery, and American Walnut wood trim. The interior also included unique elements like high-placed seat controls and a dashboard inscription, enhancing its luxury appeal.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a 5.6-liter V8 engine producing 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. It offered rear-wheel drive as standard, with an optional 4WD system. The engine was responsive, though transmission shifts could have been smoother. The QX80's body-on-frame construction provided a comfortable ride, aided by independent suspension and Hydraulic Body Motion Control on Sensory models. However, it felt less composed in corners, with noticeable body roll. The QX80 excelled in towing, with a capacity of 8,500 pounds, though its off-road capabilities were limited by size and tire choices.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer featured a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 engine delivering 471 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. It accelerated from zero to 60 mph in six seconds, impressive for its weight. The Grand Wagoneer came with standard 4WD, including the Quadra-Drive II system with multiple drive modes and a Quadra-Lift air suspension system. This setup provided excellent off-road capabilities, with adjustable ground clearance and water fording ability. Despite its power, the Grand Wagoneer was best driven at a leisurely pace, as its ride could be bouncy at higher speeds, and steering was imprecise.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 offered a seven-seat configuration with second-row captain’s chairs, or an optional eight-seat setup. It featured power-adjustable front seats, though they lacked thigh support. Passenger space was competitive, with ample room in the third row. Cargo space was limited compared to rivals, with 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row and 95.1 cubic feet with all seats folded. The QX80 included a power liftgate and folding third row for convenience, though storage space in the center console was limited.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer accommodated seven or eight passengers, offering more third-row headroom and second-row legroom than competitors. It provided 27.4 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats in place and 94.2 cubic feet with all seats folded. The Grand Wagoneer had a maximum towing capacity of 9,850 pounds, slightly less than the standard Wagoneer due to its weight. Standard features included a sunroof and four-zone climate control, though forward visibility was limited by the hood design.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 featured the InTouch dual-screen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 13-speaker Bose audio system. Optional upgrades included a 17-speaker system and rear-seat entertainment. The interface was challenging to use, with small screens and complex controls. However, the Smart Rearview Mirror and Around View Monitor enhanced driving convenience.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer boasted a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, dual touchscreens, and a McIntosh audio system. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and offered a rear-seat entertainment system. The Uconnect 5 system provided an intuitive interface with over-the-air updates, though screen responsiveness was occasionally slow. Additional features included Amazon Alexa connectivity and Fire TV for Auto, enhancing passenger entertainment.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 received a four-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, with standard features like adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. The IIHS had not tested the QX80.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer had not been rated by NHTSA or IIHS at the time. It included standard safety features such as a 360-degree camera system, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included night vision and driver-assistance systems, with plans for a hands-free driving system.