INFINITI QX80 vs Lexus TX

The 2026 INFINITI QX80 presented a bold and commanding presence with its tall, upright stance and high shoulder lines. Its design was characterized by a simple two-box profile, complemented by a standard rear spoiler and large 22-inch wheels. The front featured a distinctive black, two-part grille with vertical slats inspired by a bamboo forest, flanked by LED headlights and piano-key daytime running lights. At the rear, a taillight light bar spanned the width, echoing the piano key design, and sat above wide Infiniti lettering. Inside, the QX80 offered a modern and luxurious environment with real leather, aluminum, and open-pore wood trim. The Sport models featured a Dusk Blue interior theme, adding a touch of sophistication.

The 2026 Lexus TX offered a variety of packages, each with distinct features. The TX 350 came with the Luxury package, while the 500h hybrid started with the F Sport Performance 2 package. The exterior retained a large grille reminiscent of the older spindle design, complemented by sharp bi-LED headlights and a rear LED light bar. The interior offered three colour options, ambient lighting, and suede trim, though the material quality fell short of luxury standards. The redesigned door handles, which reacted to pressure rather than pulling out, were a unique feature, though some might have preferred more attention to detail elsewhere in the cabin.

The 2026 INFINITI QX80 transitioned from a 5.6-litre V8 to a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6, boosting output to 450 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, the QX80 featured full-time four-wheel drive in Canada. Despite losing low-range gearing, the vehicle maintained a robust towing capacity of 3,850 kilograms. The QX80's body-on-frame platform boasted increased torsional rigidity and lateral stiffness, enhancing its performance. The suspension system included air springs and adaptive dampers, allowing for adjustable ground clearance. However, the QX80's size and weight resulted in notable body lean and challenging manoeuvrability in tight spaces.

The 2026 Lexus TX 350 featured a 275-horsepower 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the TX 500h hybrid increased output to 366 horsepower. The gas model came with an eight-speed automatic transmission, and the hybrid used a six-speed automatic. The TX 350 offered full-time all-wheel drive, while the TX 500h utilized Lexus's Direct4 AWD system. The TX provided Normal, Eco, and Sport drive modes, with Sport mode enhancing throttle sensitivity. The 500h model included adaptive suspension and rear steering for improved handling, though the TX was not designed as a sports car.

The 2026 INFINITI QX80 was a spacious SUV, measuring 5,365 millimetres in length with a 3,075-mm wheelbase, accommodating up to seven passengers. Standard features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, and heated and ventilated front and second-row seats. The Sport and Autograph trims offered semi-aniline leather and massage functions for the front seats. The second-row captain's chairs in these trims had power adjustments, and the Autograph trim included massaging second-row seats. The third-row bench provided ample space for adults or children and was heated in the Autograph trim. Cargo space was generous, with 623 litres behind the third row, 1,670 litres behind the second row, and 2,860 litres with all rear seats folded.

The 2026 Lexus TX offered three-zone automatic climate control, heated and cooled front seats, and heated second-row seats. The TX 500h included ventilated second-row seats. The third row was spacious, with a recline function and ample headroom. A one-touch button facilitated entry to the third row, though folding the second row flat was more complex. The front seats were roomy but lacked thigh support. The TX provided 572 litres of cargo space with all seats in place, expanding to 1,625 litres with the third row flat and 2,747 litres with all rear seats folded. The TX could tow up to 2,268 kilograms when properly equipped.

The 2026 INFINITI QX80 was equipped with a pair of 14.3-inch screens, including a digital instrument cluster and an infotainment touchscreen. The system featured Google built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. A 5G connection provided a Wi-Fi hotspot and remote services. The infotainment screen was user-friendly, though the lower screen's controls were less intuitive. The QX80 offered a 14-speaker Klipsch audio system, with a 24-speaker system available on higher trims. Additional features included a head-up display, wireless charging, a dashcam, and an in-car camera for selfies. The surround-view camera system offered nine views, including an Invisible Hood view.

The 2026 Lexus TX featured a 14-inch colour touchscreen, though some functions lacked polish. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, but connectivity issues occasionally arose. Subscription services were required for in-dash navigation and other features. The back-up camera provided a clear view, and the available Advanced Park system assisted with parking. The TX included seven USB ports and wireless charging, with an available 120-volt outlet in the second row. The rear-camera mirror offered an unobstructed view, enhancing visibility.

The 2026 INFINITI QX80 came standard with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance technologies, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, ProPilot Assist 1.1, and more. The Autograph trim offered ProPilot Assist 2.1, allowing for hands-free driving on certain highways. The QX80 earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation, though NHTSA ratings were unavailable at the time of publication.

The 2026 Lexus TX included Safety System+ 3.0 as standard, featuring forward collision warning, lane tracing assist, and more. Proactive Driving Assist was also included, though it was often turned off due to its sensitivity. The TX received a five-star crash safety rating from NHTSA, while IIHS ratings varied, with some areas receiving top scores and others rated as "Acceptable."