Updated Tech Highlights ’22 Infiniti QX80

In a model line mostly comprising family-oriented utility vehicles, the Infiniti QX80 stands out. It’s the Japanese luxury brand’s only body-on-frame vehicle and is by far its largest model, with standard seating for seven.

Infiniti announces updates for the luxury cruiser’s new model year that focus mostly on tech, hoping to compete more directly with the fully redesigned Cadillac Escalade, which leads the Luxury Large SUV segment as tracked by Wards Intelligence. Through June, the QX was also behind the Lincoln Navigator and Land Rover Range Rover in sales.

Infiniti’s product development team left well enough alone with the QX80’s powertrain for 2022. It remains the stalwart 5.6L V-8 that makes 400 hp and 413 lb.-ft. (600 Nm) of torque paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission and either rear- or 4-wheel drive.

Four-wheel independent, double-wishbone suspension and rear automatic self-leveling are standard, while an available hydraulic Body Motion Control system can be optioned in. With the right equipment, the QX80 can tow up to 8,500 lbs. (3,856 kg).

The real story for QX80 hopefuls is the SUV’s updated tech. A new 12.3-in. (31-cm) high-definition touchscreen is standard, which offers wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto capability. Navigation, Infiniti InTouch services, wireless smartphone charging, a Bose Premium Sound System and adaptive cruise control also are standard.

All QX80 models come with a smart camera system built into the rearview mirror. Rather than a traditional mirror view, which can be partially blocked by seatbacks and the vehicle’s bodywork, the camera mirror projects a clear, unobstructed view behind the vehicle.

A surround-view camera with moving object detection and a front/rear sonar system also aid in parking the hefty Infiniti. Interior and exterior styling will carry over for the new model year, which means available 22-in. wheels, standard Nappa leather upholstery, second-row captain’s chairs and heated front seats.

Infiniti offers climate-controlled seats and semi-aniline leather upholstery as upgrades. The 2022 QX80 (pictured below) will be offered in three trims: Luxe at just under $72,000, Premium Select at $75,385, and Sensory at $82,235.

The SUV goes on sale first in the U.S. and Canada in late summer 2021 before heading to other markets later on.

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