INFINITI QX80 vs Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid continued the evolutionary design improvements that Subaru had been implementing since the model's inception. The third-generation Crosstrek maintained its attractive appearance, with subtle updates that included a frameless grille and aerodynamic enhancements around the wheel arches. These changes not only improved the vehicle's aesthetics but also contributed to better fuel efficiency and reduced road noise. Inside, the Crosstrek Hybrid offered a blend of rugged utility and refined comfort, featuring black leather upholstery and chrome-trimmed accents that added a touch of luxury to its straightforward design.

In contrast, the 2026 INFINITI QX80 embraced a bold and macho aesthetic typical of body-on-frame SUVs. Its tall and upright stance, coupled with high shoulder lines and a two-box profile, gave it a commanding presence. The front end featured a distinctive two-part grille inspired by a bamboo forest, flanked by LED headlights and piano-key daytime running lights. The rear was equally striking, with a taillight light bar and wide Infiniti lettering. Inside, the QX80 exuded luxury with high-quality materials like aluminum and open-pore wood trim, while the Sport models offered a unique Dusk Blue interior theme.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid was equipped with a 2.5-litre Atkinson/Miller-cycle engine paired with an 118 hp traction motor, delivering a total system output of 194 hp. This made it the fastest Crosstrek to date, with improved acceleration and smooth power delivery. The hybrid system utilized two motor-generators for engine start/stop functions and regenerative braking, enhancing efficiency. During testing, the Crosstrek Hybrid achieved 7.6 litres per 100 kilometres, slightly above the estimated 6.5 L/100 km. Subaru's AWD system and X-Mode traction management provided superior off-road capability compared to competitors like the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid.

The 2026 INFINITI QX80 transitioned to a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 450 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain, coupled with a nine-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD, offered impressive performance, achieving 0-96 km/h in 6.1 seconds. Despite the increased power, the QX80 maintained a towing capacity of 3,850 kilograms. The SUV's body-on-frame platform boasted enhanced torsional rigidity and lateral stiffness, while the adaptive suspension system provided adjustable ground clearance for various driving conditions. However, its size and weight resulted in notable body lean and challenging manoeuvrability in tight spaces.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid improved upon its predecessors by offering more cargo space and maintaining a large 63-litre fuel tank. With 527 litres of cargo volume behind the rear seats and 1,433 litres with the rear row folded, it provided ample storage capacity. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed 926 millimetres of legroom, surpassing competitors like the Corolla Cross Hybrid. Up front, storage was limited, but the inclusion of a wireless charging pad and deep door pockets added convenience.

The 2026 INFINITI QX80 offered a spacious interior with a 5,365-millimetre length and 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 Autograph trim added massaging functions for both front and second-row seats. Cargo space was generous, with 623 litres behind the third row, 1,670 litres behind the second row, and 2,860 litres behind the first row. However, the Cadillac Escalade offered even more cargo capacity.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid came with an 11.6-inch touchscreen, but its infotainment system lagged behind competitors like the Kia Niro Hybrid and Hyundai Kona. The software was slow, and many controls were managed via touchscreen buttons, which could be frustrating. However, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a Harman Kardon stereo and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster.

The 2026 INFINITI QX80 featured a pair of 14.3-inch screens for the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system, with Google built-in and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 5G connection provided a Wi-Fi hotspot, while a 14-speaker Klipsch audio system was standard. The top trims offered a 24-speaker system with headrest speakers. The QX80 also included a head-up display, wireless charging, and a surround-view camera system with innovative features like an Invisible Hood view.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid included Subaru's EyeSight advanced driver assistance systems, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and pre-collision braking. However, it did not receive a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS due to "Marginal" and "Acceptable" crash test scores. The NHTSA awarded it five stars in overall safety, but ratings for the 2026 model were not yet available.

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