All-New Infiniti QX80 Debuts, Powered by 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6

On May 2, the all-new Infiniti QX80 was officially launched in China, available in two trims priced at RMB 1,198,000 and RMB 1,368,000. Positioned as a full-size luxury SUV, the new QX80 adopts design cues from the Infiniti QX Monograph Concept and replaces its predecessor’s 5.6L V8 with a more modern 3.5L twin-turbocharged V6 engine.

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Exterior
The new QX80 features a commanding presence with a large illuminated front grille and a split headlamp design. The upper DRLs incorporate continuous LED light segments, while the lower beams use a more squared layout. Measuring 5365/2030/1945 mm with a 3075 mm wheelbase, the SUV is larger and more imposing than its predecessor. At the rear, horizontal styling elements, full-width LED taillights, a roof spoiler, and a high-mounted brake light enhance width and sophistication.

Interior
The QX80 offers a range of premium interiors. The Sensory trim comes in black, beige, or chestnut brown, while the Autograph trim adds an exclusive burgundy theme, Alcantara headliner, branded steering wheel, laser-engraved wood inlays, and dual-tone leather door panels. Dual 14.3-inch displays dominate the dashboard, supported by a 9-inch multifunction control screen, replacing many physical buttons.

Seating comes in three rows, with 8-seat (2-3-3) or 7-seat (2-2-3) configurations. Semi-aniline leather, heated/ventilated seats, massage functions, memory settings, and even a central console refrigerator underscore the luxury focus. The second row in the Autograph trim features captain’s chairs with extensive adjustability, while the third row includes power-folding, one-touch access, and heating.

Powertrain & Technology
The QX80 now uses a 3.5L twin-turbo V6 producing 450 hp and 700 Nm, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Standard equipment includes intelligent AWD with six drive modes, adaptive electronic air suspension with damping control, and a rear differential lock.

Market Positioning
First introduced in 2004, the QX80 is now in its third generation. In China, it will compete with full-size luxury SUVs such as the Lexus LX (RMB 1.25–1.55 million), Lincoln Navigator (RMB 1.11–1.46 million), Mercedes-Benz GLS (RMB 1.06–1.40 million), and BMW X7 (RMB 1.04–1.73 million).

However, as a high-priced import, its sales prospects are modest. In Q1 2025, Mercedes sold 3,064 GLS units, BMW sold 1,280 X7s, Lexus delivered 518 LXs, Lincoln sold 74 Navigators, while Infiniti QX80 sales reached only 3 units, typically averaging fewer than 5 per month. Despite pricing on par with German rivals, Infiniti’s weaker brand recognition may limit its appeal in the Chinese luxury SUV segment.

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