2021 INFINITI QX80 vs 2022 Kia EV6

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 a distinctive roofline and rear window curve, was shared with the Armada, while the front-end styling was uniquely Infiniti, featuring a bold grille and headlight design. The QX80's exterior was equipped with standard LED lighting and large alloy wheels, contributing to its assertive yet refined appearance. Inside, the QX80's interior closely mirrored the Armada, with added luxury touches like wood trim and leather upholstery, though it retained some less premium features like a foot-operated parking brake.

In contrast, the 2022 Kia EV6 boasted a sportier and more modern aesthetic, akin to a Ford Mustang Mach-E. Its design was characterized by a low, wide stance, with wheels pushed to the corners and a highback tail with a lip spoiler. The EV6's exterior featured sleek, angular lines and a unique lightbar, while its interior was futuristic, with dual 12-inch screens, a floating centre console, and ambient lighting. The EV6's design emphasized style and innovation, with features like retractable door handles and a hidden charge port, making it a standout in the electric vehicle market.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a robust 5.6-litre V8 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. Its body-on-frame construction provided a truck-like ride, but the independent suspension and Hydraulic Body Motion Control on higher trims ensured a comfortable and stable driving experience. The QX80 excelled in towing, with a capacity of 3,855 kilograms, and offered off-road capabilities with its 4WD system. However, its size and design limited its agility in corners, and the transmission shifts were not as smooth as expected.

The 2022 Kia EV6, particularly in the GT-Line e-AWD variant, offered a thrilling performance with its dual electric motors producing 320 horsepower and 446 lb-ft of torque. It accelerated swiftly, reaching 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds, and handled corners with precision. The EV6's regenerative braking system provided customizable settings, allowing for one-pedal driving. Despite its impressive power, the EV6's range was affected by cold weather, delivering only 65% of its estimated range in winter conditions. Charging was efficient, with the ability to accept up to 240 kW, though real-world charging times varied.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 offered a spacious interior with a standard seven-seat configuration, featuring second-row captain’s chairs and an optional eight-seat layout. The front seats were power-adjustable, though they lacked thigh support for long journeys. Passenger space was ample across all three rows, but cargo capacity was limited compared to competitors, with 470 litres behind the third row and up to 2,694 litres with seats folded. The centre console provided limited storage, and the design of the cupholders and phone slots was not optimal.

The 2022 Kia EV6 provided generous legroom and headroom, thanks to its low floor, creating an open and airy cabin. The rear seats offered reclining options and air vents, enhancing passenger comfort. However, the cargo space was limited, with 690 litres behind the seats and 1,322 litres when folded. The EV6's towing capacity was modest at 1,043 kilograms, but it featured an onboard power generator for added utility.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 came equipped 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 analog controls, though the user interface was not intuitive. The Smart Rearview Mirror and Around View Monitor added convenience and safety.

The 2022 Kia EV6's infotainment system was user-friendly, with a clear interface and connectivity options, though wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto required a wired connection. The system included a 360-degree camera, customizable "engine" sounds, and an augmented reality head-up display. The GT-Line trims offered a premium Meridian stereo and remote parking assist, enhancing the overall tech experience.

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 interventions, though the QX80 lacked testing from the IIHS.

The 2022 Kia EV6 had not been tested by safety organizations, but it offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward collision avoidance, lane keep assist, and blind spot monitoring on higher trims. The EV6's safety tech was advanced, providing peace of mind for drivers.