2018 Infiniti QX80

A rising economy with low gas prices is fueling a resurgence of full-size, full-frame SUVs, especially in the luxury market. Now add in a head turning new Lincoln Navigator, and it’s a perfect time to freshen the 2018 Infiniti QX80.

Most of the changes are on the longer front end, with a taller, less in-your-face grille; headlights are squarer, and the ugly fender portholes replaced with gills.

Wheels are redesigned, with wider running boards, and the rear end is reskinned with thinner taillights.

So, despite its iconic Nissan Patrol profile, it’s enough so that the QX80 does indeed now look…well…fresh and much better.

“Driving the latest Infiniti QX80 is mostly unchanged. It’s a massive vehicle and it still drives that way. The ride has improved, but overall I think it feels larger than the Cadillac Escalade, yet smaller than Lincoln’s new Navigator. There’s no mistaking the 5.6-liter V8 for anything but massive. It’s 400 horsepower is delivered through a 7-speed automatic with near seamless shifts. Inside even less has changed. There’s new stich patterns on the seats, the new trim on the dash, larger cup holders, more center storage. There is a new digital rear view mirror, and in the back, larger video screens. So, it’s even more overstuffed and welcoming”.

Highway ride is better, thanks in part to more body sound insulation. Arriving in dealerships now, the 2018 Infiniti QX80 starts at under $65,000.