2024 Toyota RAV4 vs 2025 INFINITI QX80

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 aimed to present a rugged appearance, with its aggressive front design and angular grey body cladding. Despite its tough exterior, the performance didn't quite match the visual promise. The TRD Off-Road trim, tested in the U.S., featured dual exhaust outlets and fake skid plates, adding to its off-road aesthetic. In Canada, the Limited trim topped the lineup, offering a more refined interior with options like a digital rearview mirror. The RAV4's cabin was designed for utility, with practical storage solutions and easy-clean surfaces, though higher trims offered more upscale interior choices.

In contrast, the 2025 INFINITI QX80 underwent a significant redesign, growing slightly in size and enhancing its body-on-frame architecture for improved stiffness. The styling updates were most noticeable at the front, with a larger grille and distinctive stacked headlights. The rear retained its shape but featured full-width LED taillights. The QX80's interior received a high-tech makeover, with a large horizontal display and ambient lighting. Despite the luxurious upgrades, some materials felt less premium, particularly the shiny black plastic trim.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. The RAV4 offered various driving modes and had a ground clearance ranging from 20.6 to 21.6 centimetres. While the engine was powerful for its class, it was also loud and unrefined. Fuel economy was rated at 8.5 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with the hybrid version offering better efficiency.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 featured a new twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 450 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The 4WD system was standard in Canada. The QX80's air suspension and adaptive damping provided a comfortable ride, with adjustable ride height for off-road and aerodynamic efficiency. Despite its size, the QX80's handling was average, typical for large body-on-frame SUVs. The new engine offered more power and a smoother ride compared to the previous V8.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 focused on practicality, with a functional interior featuring storage shelves and rubberized controls. The seats were comfortable, with SofTex upholstery and power adjustments for the driver. Heated front seats were standard, with additional features available on higher trims. The RAV4 offered ample space for passengers and cargo, with a maximum cargo capacity of 1,977 litres when the seats were folded.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 boasted increased cargo space, with 623 litres behind all three rows, expanding to 2,860 litres with the second and third rows folded. The interior was easily reconfigurable, with power-folding seats and a power liftgate. Passenger space was generous, with improved legroom and available heated, ventilated, and massaging seats. The QX80 also offered a high towing capacity of 3,855 kilograms, surpassing many competitors.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 featured the Toyota Audio Multimedia system with an 8-inch or optional 10.5-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and various connected services. While the system was sophisticated, it had some usability issues, such as the lack of a multi-panel Home screen and difficulty exiting Apple CarPlay. The available digital rearview mirror provided a clear view when the vehicle was fully loaded.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 introduced dual 14.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment, with a smaller 9-inch touchscreen for additional controls. It was the first Infiniti model with Google built-in apps, offering Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play Store. The QX80's infotainment system had a familiar Nissan-like interface, and the lower touchscreen required firm presses. All models featured Klipsch sound systems, with advanced audio options on higher trims.

The 2024 Toyota RAV4 came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, including adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assist. However, it lost its Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS due to lower ratings in recent crash tests. The safety tech was adequate but showed limitations on curvy roads.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. It included standard safety features like forward collision warning and blind-spot monitoring. The QX80 also offered ProPilot Assist for highway driving assistance, with hands-free driving capabilities on higher trims.