2025 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2025 INFINITI QX80

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 underwent its first redesign since 2017, growing slightly longer and wider while maintaining its height. It retained its body-on-frame architecture, but with a new frame that significantly improved torsional and lateral stiffness. The QX80's styling became more expressive, particularly at the front, with a larger grille and a distinctive stacked-headlight setup. The rear end maintained its general shape but featured full-width taillights with over 300 LEDs. The interior received a high-tech makeover, including a large horizontal display and 64-colour ambient lighting, although shiny black plastic trim detracted from the premium feel.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid, particularly the RX 500h F Sport Black Line, was a $90,000 SUV with an exclusive paint job and orange brake calipers. Despite these features, its appearance was unremarkable, with a large grille and dramatic rear haunches. The RX Hybrid offered three models: the efficient RX 350h, the plug-in hybrid RX 450h+, and the powerful RX 500h. All models included standard AWD in Canada, with various package options. The interior was contemporary, with quality materials and ambient lighting, but the controls were a mix of baffling and brilliant. The RX avoided the single curved display trend, maintaining a unique interior look.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a new twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 450 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, surpassing the previous V8's output. It featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD in Canada. The new engine and transmission provided a more energetic driving experience, although the active sound enhancement added an artificial noise during acceleration. The QX80's air suspension and adaptive damping offered a compliant ride, with adjustable ride height for off-road and aerodynamic purposes. Despite its size, the QX80's handling was average, typical for large body-on-frame SUVs.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid offered three models with varying performance. The RX 350h was the least powerful but most efficient, with 246 hp and a hybrid powertrain. The RX 450h+ PHEV provided 304 hp and a 0-100 km/h time of 6.5 seconds. The RX 500h featured a turbocharged 2.4-litre engine, producing 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, with a 0-100 km/h time of 6.2 seconds. It included a sport-tuned adaptive damping suspension, 21-inch wheels, and a sophisticated AWD system. While the RX 500h offered quick acceleration and a pleasant sound, its fuel efficiency was lower than expected, and the drivetrain occasionally hesitated in city driving.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80's redesign increased cargo space significantly, offering 623 litres with all seats in place, 1,670 litres with the third row folded, and 2,860 litres with both the second and third rows folded. It featured a power liftgate and power-folding seats for easy reconfiguration. Passenger space was generous, with increased legroom in the first and third rows. Heated, ventilated, and massaging seats were available, and the QX80 boasted a maximum towing capacity of 3,855 kilograms.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid focused on occupant comfort and practical cargo space. The RX 500h's front seats were snug but not very comfortable for long drives, and the climate system's fan was loud. The rear seats were comfortable, with ample room for adults. The RX offered 838 litres of cargo space, with hooks and a small storage area under the load floor. Folding the second row created 1,308 litres of cargo volume, which was modest for a midsize SUV.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 featured 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, including Google Maps and Google Assistant. The infotainment system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The QX80 offered Klipsch sound systems, with a 24-speaker version available on higher trims. A 360-degree camera system, digital rearview camera, and other advanced features were also available.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid included digital key functionality, a camera-based digital rearview mirror, and a hands-free power liftgate. The RX 500h featured a 14-inch touchscreen display with a modern Lexus Interface infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system included a cloud-based navigation system and a conversational digital voice assistant. However, the steering wheel controls were distracting and difficult to use while driving. The optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system provided excellent sound quality.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and more. The QX80 offered ProPilot Assist highway driving assistance, with adaptive cruise control and lane centring. The advanced version allowed for hands-free driving and automated lane changes.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid came with Safety Connect, offering automatic collision notification and emergency assistance. Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 included advanced driver assistance systems like forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Proactive Driving Assist monitored forward progress and used braking or steering input to maintain safe distances. The RX earned a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA but received a Poor rating from the IIHS for occupant protection.