2023 Hyundai Palisade vs 2022 INFINITI QX80

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 shared a familial resemblance with the Nissan Armada, boasting a platform and mechanicals that were similar. Its size was considered just right, neither too large nor too small, and its front-end styling was distinct due to the Infiniti grille. The LED lighting and conservative chrome use added an upscale touch, while the 22-inch dark chrome alloy wheels enhanced its exterior appeal. Inside, the QX80 featured upscale materials, including wood trim and quilted semi-aniline leather seats, though its design was starting to feel dated compared to competitors in the premium SUV market.

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade, Hyundai's largest SUV, received a styling update that gave it a more commanding presence. The new front fascia and squared-off grille contributed to its stronger look, complemented by standard LED lighting. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim featured premium rear accent lighting and a unique grille. The Palisade's interior was stylish, with premium Nappa leather and a dual-pane sunroof in the Ultimate Calligraphy trim. It offered a range of seating configurations, including second-row captain's chairs with wing-out headrests, and was equipped with heated and ventilated seats across various trims.

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 a pleasing exhaust note, though it was thirsty and required premium fuel. The seven-speed automatic transmission offered smooth shifts and effective power distribution. The QX80's 4WD system, based on the Nissan Patrol, provided 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 Hyundai Palisade featured a 3.8-litre V6 engine with 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, competitive within its class. The eight-speed automatic transmission could be controlled with paddle shifters, and AWD was standard in Canada. The Palisade's HTRAC AWD system performed well in off-road conditions, though it wasn't suited for rock-crawling. It offered a comfortable ride and a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms, with a dedicated Tow Mode for optimized shifting. Fuel economy was reasonable, with consumption figures of 12.6 L/100 km in the city, 9.5 on the highway, and 11.2 combined.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 required a climb to enter due to its tall ride height, aided by a grab handle. 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 some competitors' panoramic designs. The QX80 could seat up to eight passengers, with a cargo capacity of 470 litres behind the third row, 1,404 litres with the third row folded, and 2,694 litres with all seats down. The power-operated liftgate and illuminated kick plates added a premium touch.

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade comfortably seated seven or eight passengers, with generous legroom across all rows. It featured a one-touch seat slide for easy third-row access and HVAC vents in all rows. Cargo space was ample, with 509 litres behind the third row, 1,297 litres behind the second, and 2,447 litres with all but the front seats folded. The hands-free smart liftgate was standard on most trims. The interior was designed for convenience, with a centre console offering storage and cupholders, and intuitive controls for climate and infotainment.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 featured a 12.3-inch Infiniti InTouch infotainment system with Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. 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 QX80 lacked Infiniti's ProPilot Assist due to its older architecture, which limited its advanced driver-assistance capabilities.

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade boasted a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. A Harman Kardon audio system was standard on higher trims, and multiple devices could connect via Bluetooth. The Palisade offered a digital instrument cluster, in-car intercom, and a head-up display on top trims. Hyundai's Bluelink system provided remote access and management features, including remote start presets and seat heating or cooling via an app.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 came with standard safety features like forward automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-departure warning. It also included driver attention alert and front knee airbags. The NHTSA rated it three out of five stars for rollover resistance, while the 2021 model received four stars for overall crash protection.

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. It featured Hyundai's Smart Sense suite, including forward collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Highway Driving Assist was standard on higher trims, and a digital rearview mirror was available. The Palisade also included safe exit warning and rear seat occupant alert, enhancing passenger safety.