2021 INFINITI QX80 vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 showcased a blend of Nissan Armada and Infiniti design elements, with its body-on-frame construction reminiscent of its Nissan sibling. The SUV's profile, including the roofline and rear window curve, mirrored the Armada, while the front fenders featured vents common to both models. However, the QX80's front end was distinctly Infiniti, with a grille and headlight design introduced in 2018 that gave it an assertive yet not overly aggressive appearance. Standard LED lighting and a choice of 20-inch or 22-inch wheels added to its luxury appeal. Inside, the QX80's interior bore a strong resemblance to the Armada, with wood trim and leather upholstery enhancing its luxury feel, though some elements like the foot-operated parking brake hinted at its Nissan roots.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia, continuing its second generation into its 14th year, maintained a mature design that balanced elegance and functionality. Its exterior featured a modestly sized grille, elegant wheel arches, and straight body lines, giving it a substantial presence. The Sequoia's dimensions, including a height of 1,956 mm and a length of 5,210 mm, contributed to its imposing look. Inside, the Sequoia's design felt dated compared to modern SUVs, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch driver information screen that seemed out of place. However, the interior was well-constructed, with high-quality materials and ample space for passengers, making it a durable choice for families.

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 engine was responsive, though the transmission shifts were less smooth. The QX80's body-on-frame construction provided a truck-like ride, but its independent suspension and rear auto-leveling feature ensured comfort. The ProACTIVE models included Hydraulic Body Motion Control to reduce body roll. Despite its size, the QX80 offered a comfortable highway ride, though it felt less composed in corners. Its 4WD system and skid plate enhanced off-road capability, and it could tow up to 3,855 kg.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia featured a 5.7-litre i-Force V8 engine with 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. It offered a lockable Torsen limited-slip centre differential and a two-speed transfer case for 4WD models. The Sequoia's truck roots provided a payload capacity of up to 608 kg and a towing capacity of 3,221 kg. Despite its weight, the Sequoia delivered a smooth and stable highway ride, with a sure-footed feel on curvy roads. Its body-on-frame construction and ground clearance made it a competent off-roader, especially in the TRD Pro model with Fox shocks. The Sequoia's turning circle and sightlines made it manageable in urban settings.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 offered a seven-seat configuration with second-row captain’s chairs, or an eight-seat option with a bench seat. Standard features included power-adjustable front seats with heating and cooling, though thigh support was lacking. Passenger space was competitive, with ample room in all three rows. Cargo space was 470 litres with all seats up, expanding to 2,694 litres with the second and third rows folded. A power liftgate and power-folding third row added convenience. Storage options were limited, with small centre console space and poorly shaped cupholders.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort, with spacious seating across all three rows and three-zone climate control. A power moonroof and heated front seats were standard, with heated second-row seats available on higher trims. The Sequoia's cargo area offered 535 litres behind the third row, expanding to 3,401 litres with all rear seats folded. The centre console and glove compartment provided ample storage, and rear passengers had access to cupholders and power outlets. An auxiliary 12-volt outlet in the cargo area was ideal for outdoor activities.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 featured the Infiniti InTouch dual-screen infotainment system with 8.0-inch and 7.0-inch touchscreens, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 17-speaker Bose audio system. A rear-seat entertainment system with dual monitors was also standard. However, the user interface was cumbersome, with small screens and confusing controls. The Smart Rearview Mirror and Around View Monitor enhanced visibility and safety.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's infotainment system felt outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch driver information screen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trims added navigation and a JBL audio system. While the Sequoia lacked modern powertrain technology, it featured LED lighting and standard safety tech like a rear backup camera and parking sonar.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with five stars for side crashes and three stars for rollovers. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The ProACTIVE grade added Backup Collision Intervention and Blind Spot Intervention.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia lacked crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS. However, it came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense P, including pre-collision systems, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. The STAR safety system added stability control, traction control, and a full complement of airbags, enhancing occupant protection.