2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2022 INFINITI QX80

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid initially presented a bold and distinctive design, characterized by its blunt and bulbous nose, which gave it an aggressive appearance. Over time, however, this design became more familiar and less striking. The SUV's styling included black windshield pillars that created a floating roof effect, and swollen haunches that attempted to balance the overall look. Despite the 20-inch alloy wheels, the flared quarter panels seemed exaggerated. The interior offered a two-tone look with soft leather in higher trims, but the dashboard's asymmetrical design and glossy black detailing could cause reflections. The controls were well-organized, though the mix of illumination colours made the gauges appear busy at night.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 shared its platform with the Nissan Armada, yet it maintained a unique front-end styling with a distinctive Infiniti grille. The SUV's LED lighting and tasteful chrome accents contributed to its upscale appearance, while the 22-inch dark chrome alloy wheels added a touch of elegance. Inside, the QX80 featured upscale materials, including wood trim and quilted semi-aniline leather seats. However, the design was beginning to feel outdated compared to its competitors. Despite this, the cabin remained comfortable and attractive, though it fell short of the high expectations set by the premium full-size SUV market.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid transitioned from a V6 engine to a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, resulting in improved fuel efficiency with a combined rating of 6.7 L/100 km. The total output was 243 horsepower, a decrease from the previous 306 hp. The hybrid system used an "E-CVT" to mimic an automatic transmission. While the efficiency was commendable, the driving experience was less enjoyable, with the engine sounding strained during acceleration and hill climbs. The steering was lifeless, and the ride exhibited unwanted body movement. However, the regenerative brakes were an improvement, and the SUV handled well on smooth roads.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 boasted a powerful 400-horsepower, 5.6-litre V8 engine with 413 lb-ft of torque. The engine delivered robust performance and an appealing exhaust note, though it required premium fuel. The seven-speed automatic transmission provided smooth and seamless shifts, enhancing the driving experience. The QX80's off-road capabilities were notable, with a standard 4WD system and ample ground clearance. It also offered a generous towing capacity of 3,855 kilograms. Despite its size, the QX80 managed body lean well, thanks to the Hydraulic Body Motion Control system.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum offered comfortable seating for the driver and front passenger, with power-adjustable seats and leather upholstery. The second-row bench seat increased seating capacity to eight, but the narrow cabin made it uncomfortable for three adults. The third-row seat was cramped and lacked support. Cargo space was decent, with 453 litres behind the third row and a maximum capacity of 2,387 litres. However, storage solutions were less generous than the previous generation, and the placement of the wireless charger was inconvenient.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 required a climb to enter due to its tall ride height. The cabin provided a spacious and airy feel, with good front-seat head- and legroom. The power-sliding moonroof was smaller than expected, given the SUV's size. The QX80 could accommodate up to eight passengers, but the third row was cramped. Cargo space was competitive, with 470 litres behind the third row and a maximum of 2,694 litres. The test vehicle featured illuminated kick plates and welcome lighting, adding a premium touch.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Platinum trim included a JBL premium audio system and a head-up display. The infotainment controls were user-friendly, with large knobs and shortcut buttons. The JBL sound system's performance varied, and the Driver Easy Speak feature projected the driver's voice to rear passengers. A video rearview mirror provided an unobstructed view, and the driver information display offered detailed data.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 featured a new 12.3-inch Infiniti InTouch infotainment system with Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The system included navigation, voice recognition, and connected services. A Bose 17-speaker sound system was standard, along with multiple USB ports and a wireless smartphone charger. The dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system was included, though HDMI adapters were missing. The absence of ProPilot Assist was notable, as the QX80's older architecture couldn't support advanced driver aids.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, which included automatic high beams, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. The system added intersection support and emergency steering assistance. A blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert were standard, and the Platinum trim included a surround-view camera system. The Highlander received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 offered standard safety features such as forward automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and forward-collision warning. Additional features included driver attention alert and front knee airbags. The ProActive grade offered a smart rearview mirror and adaptive cruise control. The QX80 received a three-star rating for rollover resistance from the NHTSA, while the 2021 model received four stars for overall crash protection.