2021 INFINITI QX80 vs 2022 Lexus GX

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, including the roofline and rear window curve, mirrored the Armada, while the front-end styling was distinctly Infiniti, featuring a bold grille and headlight design. The QX80's exterior was equipped with standard LED lighting and varied wheel sizes depending on the trim. Inside, the QX80's interior closely resembled the Armada, with added luxury touches like wood trim and leather upholstery. However, the interior's exclusivity was somewhat compromised by its similarities to the Nissan model.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus GX maintained a design that harkened back to its first-generation model, with the signature spindle grille and LED headlights being the main distinguishing features. The cabin was crafted with high-quality materials, offering a quiet and refined environment. Despite its dated design, the GX's interior was comfortable, with physical controls that were easy to use, although some were awkwardly placed. The Black Line Special Edition added unique interior touches, but the third-row seating was cramped and difficult to access, impacting overall practicality.

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 featured a standard 4WD system in Canada, with independent suspension and Hydraulic Body Motion Control on higher trims. The QX80 offered a comfortable ride, though it struggled with body roll in corners. Its towing capacity was impressive at 3,855 kilograms, surpassing some competitors, but its off-road capabilities were limited by its size and wheel design.

The 2022 Lexus GX, with its 4.6-litre V8 engine, delivered 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque. It featured a six-speed automatic transmission and a full-time 4WD system. The GX's performance was characterized by a leisurely acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of 7.8 seconds. Its towing capacity was 2,948 kilograms. The GX's Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System improved stability and off-road capability, but its fuel consumption was high at 14.5 litres per 100 kilometres. The GX's steering was slow and heavy, making it less agile in urban settings.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 offered a spacious interior with a standard seven-seat configuration, with an optional eight-seat layout. The front seats were power-adjustable, but lacked thigh support. Passenger space was ample, though not class-leading, and cargo capacity was limited compared to rivals, with 470 litres behind the third row. The power liftgate and folding third row added convenience, but storage solutions were not optimal.

The 2022 Lexus GX provided a high driving position and clear visibility, with comfortable seating and physical controls. However, the rear seat access was challenging, and the third row was cramped. Cargo space was limited, with 328 litres behind the third row and 1,833 litres with all seats folded. The side-opening tailgate was cumbersome, especially in tight spaces, and the high load floor made loading heavy items difficult.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 featured the InTouch dual-screen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 17-speaker Bose audio system. The system was complemented by analog controls, but the user interface was not intuitive. The Smart Rearview Mirror and Around View Monitor added convenience and safety.

The 2022 Lexus GX introduced a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a CD player. The system was user-friendly, with excellent voice recognition and a dual-screen view. However, the placement of stereo controls was awkward. The GX also offered Intuitive Parking Assist and optional surround-view cameras.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with standard safety features including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. The ProACTIVE grade added advanced safety technologies.

The 2022 Lexus GX lacked crash-test ratings but included Lexus Safety System+ with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. It also featured blind-spot monitoring and Safety Connect services. However, it lacked some advanced safety technologies found in competitors.