2023 Genesis GV70 vs 2022 INFINITI QX80

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 shared a familial resemblance with the Nissan Armada, boasting a platform and mechanical similarities. Its size was considered just right, not too large or small, and its front-end styling was distinct due to the Infiniti grille. The LED lighting and conservative chrome use added an upscale look, complemented by stylish 22-inch dark chrome alloy wheels. Inside, the QX80 featured upscale materials, including wood trim and quilted semi-aniline leather seats, though its design was becoming outdated compared to competitors in the premium full-size SUV market.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 drew styling cues from the G70 compact luxury sedan, with split-bar headlights and a chrome line suggesting a coupe-like SUV. Its interior was luxurious, with top-notch materials and a contemporary yet classic design. The climate controls were integrated into a curving bezel, and the touchscreen rose organically from the dash. The GV70's dash featured a full touchscreen with a rotary dial and button controls, offering a better user experience than touch capacitive controls found in some competitors.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a robust 400-horsepower, 5.6-litre V8 engine with 413 lb-ft of torque. This engine delivered strong performance and a pleasing exhaust note, though it was thirsty and required premium fuel. The seven-speed automatic transmission provided smooth and seamless shifts, enhancing the driving experience. The QX80's 4WD system, based on the Nissan Patrol, offered impressive off-road capability, with a computer-controlled transfer case and ample ground clearance. It had a towing capacity of 3,855 kilograms and managed body lean well, thanks to the Hydraulic Body Motion Control system.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 offered two engine options: a 300-horsepower turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder and a 375-horsepower twin-turbo 3.5-litre V6. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and AWD. The GV70 balanced comfort and handling, providing a refined driving experience. The Electrified GV70 featured dual electric motors with a combined 429 horsepower, offering smooth acceleration and a Boost Mode for extra power. It had a range of 383 kilometres and supported fast charging. The GV70's handling was well-rounded, leaning slightly towards comfort.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 required a climb to enter due to its tall ride height, with a step-in height of nearly two feet. Inside, it offered a spacious cabin with good front-seat head- and legroom, though the third row was cramped. The power-sliding moonroof was smaller than panoramic designs, and cargo space was limited compared to competitors, with 470 litres behind the third row and 2,694 litres with all seats folded. The QX80 could seat up to eight passengers, with a slow power-folding third row and liftgate.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 provided 1,611 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 818 litres with them in use. It featured a hands-free power liftgate and decently large cupholders in the centre console. The front seats were comfortable, but rear legroom was tighter, requiring front-row occupants to adjust their seats. The rear bench reclined for added comfort.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 featured a 12.3-inch Infiniti InTouch infotainment system with Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. It included a Bose 17-speaker sound system, multiple USB ports, and a wireless smartphone charger. A dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system was available, though HDMI adapters were missing. The QX80 lacked Infiniti's ProPilot Assist due to its older architecture.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 came with a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. It included four USB ports, wireless charging, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a nine-speaker stereo. Available features included ambient lighting, a digital instrument panel, and an 18-speaker Lexicon audio system. The rotary dial for infotainment was located near the vehicle's rotary shifter, which could cause confusion.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 offered standard safety features like forward automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-departure warning. It also included driver attention alert, front knee airbags, and seat belt pre-tensioners. The QX80 received a three-star rollover resistance rating from NHTSA, with the structurally similar 2021 model receiving four stars for overall crash protection.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 featured a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The 2.5T Advance Plus added a blind-spot camera and 360-degree parking camera. The GV70 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS.