2025 INFINITI QX80 vs 2025 Mazda CX-90

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 with a large horizontal display and 64-colour ambient lighting, although shiny black plastic trim detracted from the premium feel.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 offered three powertrain variants, including a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). Its lustrous paint, polished chrome trim, and intricate 21-inch wheels gave it a luxury SUV appearance. The interior featured polished metallic trim, Nappa leather, and clearly marked switchgear, creating an upscale feel. However, the ergonomics had some issues, such as a confusing electronic shifter and counterintuitive climate controls. Despite these drawbacks, the CX-90 exuded sophistication compared to other midsize three-row crossover SUVs.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 450 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, surpassing the previous V8's output. A nine-speed automatic transmission replaced the old seven-speed, and four-wheel drive remained standard in Canada. The new engine and transmission combination provided a more energetic driving experience, although the active sound enhancement added an artificial noise during acceleration. The QX80 featured an air suspension and adaptive damping, allowing for real-time adjustments to ride height and damper firmness. Despite these enhancements, the QX80's handling remained average for its size and construction.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's standard 3.3 Turbo drivetrain lacked refinement, with the inline-six engine producing 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. The high-output version delivered 319 hp and 369 lb-ft, with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The CX-90 offered various driving modes and a maximum towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. However, the drivetrain's refinement was lacking, with unpredictable power delivery and transmission behaviour. The CX-90's ride and handling were impressive, but the drivetrain's lack of isolation from noise and impact harshness detracted from the overall experience.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80's redesign increased cargo space by 6%, 17%, and 28% behind the first, second, and third rows, respectively. This provided a comfortable advantage over slightly smaller SUVs. The QX80 featured a power liftgate and power-folding second- and third-row seats, making reconfiguring the interior easy. Passenger space was generous, with increased legroom in the first and third rows. The QX80 offered a maximum towing capacity of 3,855 kilograms, surpassing most full-size luxury SUVs.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's interior featured Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and a heated steering wheel. However, the three-zone climate control system struggled to cool the cabin quickly. The CX-90's panoramic sunroof provided ample natural light, and second-row passengers enjoyed comfortable seating. The third row was best suited for children, and the CX-90's cargo space was smaller than some rivals. The electronic shifter limited storage space, and the emphasis on style over practicality was evident.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80's cabin featured dual 14.3-inch screens, with one serving as the instrument cluster and the other as the infotainment touchscreen. A smaller 9-inch touchscreen handled additional controls. The QX80 was the first Infiniti model with Google built-in apps, including Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play Store. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were also supported. The QX80's Klipsch sound systems varied by trim level, with the top models featuring a 24-speaker system. A 360-degree camera system and various camera views enhanced safety and convenience.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90's dashboard featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen. The infotainment screen was touch-sensitive only when using wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, with the native Mazda Connect platform requiring a knob and buttons. The CX-90's voice recognition system was lacking, but a new Google built-in infotainment system was expected in future models. The test vehicle featured a 12-speaker Bose audio system and a head-up display, providing a rewarding listening experience and helpful driving information.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, the organization's highest rating. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, and a trailer blind-spot warning system. The QX80 was available with Nissan's ProPilot Assist highway driving assistance system, offering adaptive cruise control and automated lane centring. The more advanced ProPilot Assist 2.1 version allowed for hands-free driving and automated lane changes.

The 2025 Mazda CX-90 was one of only four midsize, three-row, gas-powered SUVs to receive a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. The CX-90 PHEV earned five-star ratings in all NHTSA crash tests, while gas-only models received four-star ratings in frontal-impact testing. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, and rear parking sensors. Higher trim levels added additional safety features, including steering assist, emergency lane-keeping assist, and a surround-view camera system.