2019 Infiniti QX80 Performance

The 2019 Infiniti QX80 is no pushover on the road. It has a powerful V8 engine, a smooth transmission, and a comfortable ride. Despite its weight, the available Hydraulic Body Motion Control system allows for a refined and relatively agile ride.

• "This all works well enough that the 2018 Infiniti QX80 doesn't feel like a body-on-frame vehicle with the usual sideways shake on rough and crumbled roads. Like the old model, the new one is the most comfortable competitor in the big luxury SUV segment, and was able to handle the gentle sweeping curves … with good body control." -- Automobile Magazine
• "From behind the wheel of the 2017 Infiniti QX80, you soon begin to feel invincible. With each mile you feel coddled, cradled and comfortable, but most of all, you feel ... invincible." -- Kelley Blue Book (2017)
• "… 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 (2015)

Acceleration and Power

The QX80 has a 400-horsepower 5.6-liter V8 engine and a seven-speed automatic transmission. The V8 is powerful enough to propel this heavy SUV along the highways or uphill without straining, and acceleration is impressive for a vehicle of this size. The automatic transmission makes smooth, timely shifts. This SUV can tow up to 8,500 pounds when properly equipped.

Large SUVs are not renowned for their excellent fuel economy, and the QX80 is no exception. This Infiniti earns an EPA-estimated 14 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway. Four-wheel drive lowers each estimate by 1 mpg.

• "While some may take exception with the way the 2019 Infiniti QX80 looks, few will take issue with the way it drives. The big 5.6-liter V8 pumps out 400 horsepower, a feat that requires copious amounts of gas, but in return delivers strong acceleration for passing, merging or just showing off." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "The carryover 400-hp 5.6-liter provides the sort of acceleration you'd expect from a big V-8 powering a big and heavy SUV. Nice motorboat gurgle under full throttle." -- Automobile Magazine (2018)
• "As far as the engine goes, it is an accomplished performer that may not offer class-leading horsepower but brings enough oomph to the task at hand. It's quiet, though under hard acceleration it will intrude on conversation." -- New York Daily News (2018)

Handling and Braking

As expected from a luxury SUV, the QX80 glides over imperfections in the pavement. What’s not expected from a vehicle of this size is its nimble handling. The available Hydraulic Body Motion Control system boosts this SUV’s agility by helping limit its body lean around corners. It’s not a sedan, but this SUV isn’t as clunky as you’d expect.

• "The steering feel is heavy and the suspension soft. Thanks to Infiniti's Hydraulic Body Motion Control system, body roll and lean are kept to a minimum without the need for steel springs that would otherwise ruin the floating-cloud ride. As the QX80 isn't easy to park, maneuver or navigate, the Around View 360-degree monitor would be a wise addition." -- Kelley Blue Book
• "The ride is comfortable and quiet and body roll, squat and dive typical of a tall SUV is kept in check by the Hydraulic Body Motion Control system. The hydraulic system (which replaces the stabilizer bar) helps keep the body flat around corners while also allowing the more independent wheel movement than a bar to soak up bumps. The system also allows a bit of rear auto-leveling, which keeps the tail from sagging when loaded up or towing." -- CNET (2018)
• "For its size, the QX80 handled well, a sensation enhanced by clear outward visibility. I never felt as though it was too big for its lane (even though at times it was)." -- New York Daily News (2018)