2021 INFINITI QX80 vs 2021 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Volvo XC90 marked a significant shift in Volvo's design philosophy, successfully adding character to its traditionally conservative styling. While maintaining its recognizable Volvo identity with a boxy profile and blunt front end, the XC90 introduced softer lines, more chrome, and distinctive LED headlights with “Thor’s Hammer” daytime running lights. The Inscription trim, with its extra chrome and optional 21-inch alloy wheels, was the most eye-catching, while the R-Design and Momentum trims offered sportier and more understated looks, respectively. Built on Volvo's Scalable Product Architecture, the XC90 shared its platform with other Volvo models, emphasizing its crossover nature. Inside, the XC90 embraced Swedish minimalism with thoughtfully arranged, high-quality materials, including matte-finish wood trim and unique wool upholstery options. The Orrefors crystal shifter added a touch of luxury to the otherwise restrained interior.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 combined elements from both the Nissan Armada and Infiniti's design language. While the body-on-frame construction and roofline profile were reminiscent of the Armada, the QX80's front end showcased Infiniti's assertive styling with a distinctive grille and headlight design. Standard LED lighting and a choice of 20-inch or 22-inch wheels added to its presence. Inside, the QX80's interior closely resembled the Armada, with wood trim and semi-aniline leather upholstery elevating the luxury feel. Despite its luxurious touches, the interior retained some Nissan elements, such as the dashboard shape and switchgear. The QX80 offered a comfortable ride with independent suspension and Hydraulic Body Motion Control on higher trims, although it struggled with body roll in corners. Its towing capacity and off-road capabilities were notable, but its size and wheel-and-tire combinations limited its off-road prowess.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, all centred around a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base T5 model featured a turbocharged engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The T6 variant added a supercharger, increasing output to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. The T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid, also known as Recharge, combined the T6 engine with electric assist, delivering a total of 400 hp and 472 lb-ft. In Canada, all models came with all-wheel drive. Despite the impressive power figures, the XC90's small engine struggled with flexibility compared to competitors' larger engines. The XC90 excelled in ride quality, thanks to an optional air-suspension system, and offered a quiet cabin. Its towing capacity was 2,250 kilograms, suitable for moderate loads.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 featured a 5.6-litre V8 engine paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission, delivering 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque. In Canada, four-wheel drive was standard. The V8 provided responsive performance, although the transmission shifts were less smooth. The QX80's body-on-frame construction contributed to a comfortable ride, aided by independent suspension and Hydraulic Body Motion Control on higher trims. While the QX80 excelled on highways, it struggled with body roll in corners. Its towing capacity of 3,855 kilograms was impressive, surpassing competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. The QX80's off-road capabilities were enhanced by its 4WD drivetrain and skid plate, but its size and wheel-and-tire combinations limited its off-road potential.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered six-seat or seven-seat configurations, with second-row captain’s chairs or a bench seat. While headroom and legroom were average, the third row was tight for adults, and seats lacked support. The optional power sunroof and upright roof profile enhanced the interior's spacious feel. The Inscription trim featured 10-way power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats with massage, but lacked a power-adjustable steering wheel. Cargo space was limited, with 317 litres with all seats in place, 965 litres with the rear seats folded, and 1,815 litres with the second and third rows folded. A hands-free power tailgate was standard.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 came standard with a seven-seat configuration, featuring second-row captain’s chairs and a centre console. An eight-seat configuration was available on the ProACTIVE grade. The front seats offered 10-way and eight-way power adjustments, but lacked thigh support. Passenger space was competitive, with ample room in the third row. Cargo space was 470 litres with all seats in place, 1,404 litres with the third row folded, and 2,694 litres with both the third and second rows folded. A power liftgate and power 60/40-split-folding third row were standard. The centre console offered limited storage, and front-door cupholders were not well-designed for holding drinks.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a 9-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, and Bluetooth. A 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system and head-up display were available. The portrait-oriented touchscreen was user-friendly, but the text and typeface made reading menus difficult while driving. The wireless charging pad was too small for most phones, and only second-row USB-C ports were available.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 included the InTouch dual-screen infotainment system with 8.0-inch upper and 7.0-inch lower touchscreens, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, and standard navigation. A 17-speaker Bose audio system and rear-seat entertainment system were standard. The touchscreens were backed by analog controls, but the user interface was confusing. The Smart Rearview Mirror and Around View Monitor 360-degree camera system were helpful features.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 received the highest “Top Safety Pick+” rating from the IIHS for non-hybrid models, with top “Good” scores in crash tests and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.

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