2023 BMW X7 vs 2022 INFINITI QX80

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 shared a strong family resemblance with the Nissan Armada, offering a good-looking, well-proportioned SUV design. Its unique front-end styling, featuring the distinctive Infiniti grille, set it apart from its sibling. The tasteful integration of LED lighting and conservative use of chrome added an upscale touch, complemented by stylish 22-inch dark chrome alloy wheels. Inside, the QX80's cabin boasted upscale materials, including wood trim and quilted semi-aniline leather seats. However, despite its luxurious appearance, the interior design felt somewhat outdated compared to its premium competitors.

The 2023 BMW X7 underwent a mid-cycle makeover, adopting a bolder design inspired by the BMW 7 Series sedan. The new front-end styling, with LED accent lights and a recessed headlight design, was polarizing. While the sides and rear remained largely unchanged, the interior received a refresh with a curved glass display housing the digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen. The cabin featured high-quality materials, including leather upholstery and a sport leather steering wheel. Despite some criticisms of the new front-end styling, the interior revisions gave the X7 a modern and elegant appearance.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a robust 400-horsepower, 5.6-litre V8 engine, delivering 413 lb-ft of torque. This engine provided strong performance and an enjoyable exhaust note, though it was notably thirsty and required premium fuel. Paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission, the QX80 offered smooth and seamless shifts. Its 4WD system, based on the Nissan Patrol, provided excellent off-road capability, with a computer-controlled transfer case and ample ground clearance. The QX80's towing capacity was impressive at 3,855 kilograms, and its Hydraulic Body Motion Control system helped manage body lean during cornering.

The 2023 BMW X7 featured a new 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid system, producing 375 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. The X7 M60i model upgraded to a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, delivering 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and xDrive all-wheel drive. Despite its weight, the X7 offered potent acceleration and well-managed body roll. The ride was slightly firmer than some competitors, reflecting BMW's focus on engaging driving dynamics.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 required a climb to enter due to its tall ride height, but once inside, it offered a spacious and airy cabin. Front-seat head- and legroom were good, though not as generous as some rivals. The QX80 could seat up to eight passengers, but the third row was cramped for adults. Cargo space was limited compared to competitors, with 470 litres behind the third row and 2,694 litres with all seats folded. The power-operated liftgate and slow-folding third-row seats were minor inconveniences.

The 2023 BMW X7 provided ample space, especially in the second row, with a large sunroof enhancing the cabin's airy feel. Accessing the third row took time, but it offered adequate space for average-sized adults. Cargo capacity was 362 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,560 litres with all seats folded. The split tailgate and air suspension made loading easier, and front-seat storage was generous.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 featured a 12.3-inch Infiniti InTouch infotainment system with Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. A Bose 17-speaker sound system was standard, along with a wireless smartphone charger. However, the absence of Infiniti's ProPilot Assist was notable, limiting advanced driver-assistance features.

The 2023 BMW X7 came with the latest iDrive 8 infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While basic functions were easy to use, many controls were moved to the touchscreen, complicating access to features like seat heating. Voice commands were available but not always efficient. A Harman Kardon sound system was standard, with a head-up display as an option.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 included standard safety features like forward automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-departure warning. It received a three-star rollover resistance rating from NHTSA, with the structurally similar 2021 model earning four stars for overall crash protection.

The 2023 BMW X7 offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including frontal collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. Optional features included a surround-view camera system and highway driving assist. While crash test results were unavailable, BMW's reputation and safety features provided confidence in passenger protection.