2018 Infiniti QX80 facelift freshens up an aging SUV

Sophisticated, Comfortable, and Childproof

Changes dominate the back as well. With a novel approach, the massive chromed line across the center invades the personal space of taillights. It is a styling exercise many cars of today have taken to heart. 2018 Infiniti QX80 definitely tries hard to be in line with customer expectations of SUVs of today and less of a robust rebel it tried to be at the beginning. And that was back in 2004.

Regardless, I have to point out that this is not actually the freshest car out there. The second generation made its influx into the market in 2010. The first facelift came its way in 2013, and now, for 2018, we have the second redesign. Not exactly something you want to see in an SUV.

After reading through an extremely comprehensive Press Release, I can confidently say that Infiniti did all it could to bring this body-on-frame SUV to the world of ecstatic family luxury. At first glance, it may seem that the interior did not receive many changes. After all, it looks much the same as before, however, the materials are different, the insulation in the doors is thicker, the seats are covered with a hydrophilic coating (which makes it easy to remove stains) and there are many more USB charging ports on the inside. Obviously, Infiniti wanted to accentuate the luxury qualities the massive space inside can provide. Also, they brought the interior features into 2018.

How?

By integrating high definition displays, providing more freedom for rear passenger occupants with the use of their dedicated screens, providing ample storage space in the doors bins. Small changes do include slight redesigned central console. Where it now features bigger storage space under the armrest; USB port was moved for better convenience and the cup holders are bigger now.

Obviously, the new 2018 Infiniti QX80 is considerably improved in terms of practicality, comfort, and luxury! What about safety then?

Safe, Powerful, Capable, but not Efficient

The safety equipment QX80 has:

• Lane Departure Warning and Prevention 
• Intelligent Cruise Control
• Distance Control Assist
• Predictive Forward Collision Warning 
• Forward Emergency Braking 
• Blind Spot Warning and Intervention
• Backup Collision Intervention

That is not all though. The Infiniti QX80 gained tech recently debuted in the Nissan Armada called the Smart Rear View Mirror. This rear view mirror can be transformed into a display showcasing the picture from the rear mounted HDR camera.

Reason enough to use it!

All in all, the Infiniti QX80 definitely succeeded to evolve into a car capable of competing with full-size SUVs. Escalade, Navigator, GLS and all others are in its sight. However, its architecture sourced from an Armada limits it in some segments. The car still uses a 5.6 liter V8 with 400hp. Enough power, but with reported 16 mpg fuel consumption, it is not exactly efficient. It can tow though, 8,500 lbs.