2015 Infiniti QX80 Performance

The 2015 Infiniti QX80 has a strong engine with great acceleration and a quick-shifting automatic transmission, according to reviewers. They add that the QX80 has agile handling for a large SUV, as well as precise steering and strong brakes.

• "Known as the QX56 before Infiniti's new lineup-wide renaming strategy, the QX80 is a full-size luxury SUV that features a traditional body-on-frame layout. This design lets the utility back up its rugged looks with excellent towing and off-roading capabilities, although it also features surprisingly competent handling on the pavement as well." -- Left Lane News
• "Finally, this big SUV lives up to Infiniti's sporty heritage by offering reasonably athletic moves around turns." -- Edmunds (2014)
• "The smooth, responsive V8 packs ample power for brisk getaways and worry-free expressway merging. The 7-speed automatic transmission is equally alert and silky." -- Consumer Guide (2013)

Acceleration and Power

The Infiniti QX80 is powered by a 5.6-liter V8 engine that makes 400 horsepower. A seven-speed automatic transmission is standard. According to the EPA, the 2015 QX80 gets 14/20 mpg city/highway, which is on par for the class.

Critics note the QX80’s V8 has ample power and excellent acceleration for a big SUV. Auto writers say that the QX80 accelerates smoothly and promptly when pushed, and they add that the automatic transmission shifts quickly and always finds the right gear.

• "The standard 400-horsepower V8 has enough gusto to move this rig, just know that it's very thirsty. At highway speeds the Infiniti is hushed, and its 7-speed automatic transmission is refined." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "As for acceleration, the 5.6-liter V8 offers stellar performance, responding instantly to throttle input and delivering a sweet, low rumble that is music to a V8-lover's ears." -- AutoTrader
• "If there's one thing that quickly becomes apparent when you slide behind the 2014 Infiniti QX80's steering wheel, it's the strong acceleration the 400-hp V8 puts at your disposal. Shifts from the seven-speed automatic are likewise smooth and swift." -- Edmunds (2014)
• "This vehicle's enormous 5.6-liter V8 generates 400 horsepower and 413-pound feet of torque, providing plenty of muscle to move this 5,850-pound behemoth. Power deliver is not only strong but smooth." -- Consumer Guide (2013)

Handling and Braking

The 2015 QX80 comes standard with rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive is optional. Reviewers say the QX80 is one of the more nimble SUVs in the class, especially when equipped with the available Hydraulic Body Motion Control system, which lessens body lean in turns. Some auto writers note that adding this handling feature makes the ride quality slightly rougher, while others think it gives the QX80 a more composed ride. They think the steering is well-weighted and that the brakes have sufficient stopping power.

• "This is one of the better-handling large SUVs. Unlike the Lexus LX570, the QX80 doesn't feel large. Instead, its steering effort is light and direct, with good feedback in fast curves. The optional Hydraulic Body Motion Control system helps the QX80 avoid the tippy feeling commonly found in large vehicles with a high center of gravity." -- AutoTrader
• "The 2015 QX80 rides on a body-on-frame truck chassis, yet this big Infiniti does an admirable job of quelling the harshness that can come with such rugged foundations. This is especially true if you spring for the optional Hydraulic Body Motion Control. This feature minimizes body lean in corners and offers a more pleasant ride in general." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "Infiniti's big SUV is also blessed with uncommon agility, particularly when it's fitted with the Deluxe Touring package and the automaker's advanced Hydraulic Body Motion Control system, which reduces body roll around tight turns to the point that the QX almost feels light on its feet. The downside to the handling improvement is that ride quality suffers somewhat, though the decline in comfort has less to do with the optional suspension itself than the large 22-inch wheels that are included in the same option package." -- Edmunds (2014)
• "Closer confines demand a bit more driver attention, due to the exterior bulk. Straight line stability is good, and steering feel is reasonable for such a large SUV. Stopping power and control are fine." -- Consumer Guide (2013)