As someone who drives a two-door sports car every day, big SUVs like the 2015 Infiniti QX80 AWD always take me out of my element. That being said, it took me seconds to warm up to Infiniti’s spacious SUV. After spending a couple of days with the QX80, I was delighted with the fact that I could fit up to six passengers or haul that big present that just came in for Christmas.
And, while I’m taking advantage of the QX80’s spaciousness, other pleasantries like its style and power added to the SUV’s appeal.
During the time I had with the QX80, I recall meeting up with a friend for lunch. Parked next to his decently-sized Dodge Durango R/T, the QX80 looked like a monster. But, with it’s size, Infiniti also made it quite the looker with newly designed front end and other new design cues. What helped even more was the Tire & Wheels Package ($2,450 option), which added 22-inch 14-spoke forged aluminum-alloy wheels.
Inside, the Limited Package ($10,000 option) covered the seats with a Truffle Brown semi-aniline leather, complimented by the Matte Finish Ash Wood trim. When sitting in this interior, I felt like Ron Burgundy among rich woods and fine leather.
Sitting in the driver’s, I was greeted with the necessary technologies you’d find in a modern car. Nothing was necessarily missing, and nothing necessarily stood out. Behind the driver’s seat, the two second row captain seats are greeted two 7-inch monitors on the front seat headrests, which were a part of the Theater Package ($2,400). Heated second row seats were also included in this package, but considering this warm Florida winter, this feature was not tested.
Looking for room for passengers? You’ve found it. The second row seats sat adults comfortably, while the rear seats were understandably not as spacious. The bench seat, along with the second row, could be folded over to create a massive amount of trunk space.
Like I mentioned before, I daily drive a two-seater, two-door car, but driving the QX80 felt very natural as a daily. It provided the power I needed whenever I asked for it, thanks to the 5.6-liter V8 engine, which was good for 400 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque. In a time where engines are being turbocharged left and right, Infiniti stuck a big, naturally aspirated V8. With this engine also comes gas mileage rated at 14/20 mpg.
Depending on road conditions, the Infiniti QX80 AWD also mas multiple driving modes that can be altered through the computer-controlled transfer case. This feature would be perfect for those looking for an SUV with hauling capabilities.
The 2015 Infiniti QX80 AWD comes in with a base price of $66,350, per the sticker sheet. After all of the added options, our example had a total price of $89,845. All of these options and the base SUV made for a pleasant experience that I quite enjoyed. If you’re looking for a big SUV with space, the QX80 is a great option. And, if I had a boat, I can tell you I definitely would’ve been hauling it behind this QX80, thanks to its all-wheel-drive setup.
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