Updated 2018 Infiniti QX80 remains segment’s sharpest priced

The facelifted Infiniti QX80 brings extensive exterior redesign and a number of stylish interior updates priced from $110,900, a sticker that ensures that the Japanese luxury SUV remain as the least expensive in the increasingly competitive large premium SUV market.

Comprehensive exterior changes to the QX80 include an updated front end that highlights its bold proportions and gives the upper large SUV a commanding posture.

Extensively redesigned; the headlights, front bumper, grille and bonnet have been moved upwards, while the rounded curves of its predecessor have been squared off, particularly on the lower bumper, giving the QX80 a wider more angular look.

The bonnet is 20mm higher and has been extended by 90mm, the Infiniti trademark double-arch grille is taller and broader, and the wider, more angular front bumper has a muscular design that elevates its athletic stance.

The new ‘Powerful Elegance’ design language incorporates Infiniti’s front I-LED headlights – with LED “eyebrow” Daytime Running Lights – that features Light Guide Technology that evenly disperses light. The new integrated LED fog lights have two LEDs on each side, while indicators have been squared off.

With a higher centre of gravity, the side air vent, bonnet and front quarter panels have been moved so that the shoulder character line runs higher on the vehicle’s body, while the side steps have been extended out by 20mm making it easier to get in and out of the vehicle.

From behind, the tailgate, taillights, chrome bar and rear bumper have been redesigned to give a firmer, higher look. The cargo door has also been updated, better integrating with the sharper, thinner rear LED lights.

Inside, the QX80 boasts updated cabin materials using a range of contemporary leather accented features and upholstery and the premium, old-school charm of wood grain inspired finishes.

Infiniti has updated the upper instrument panel, plus the door panels, the centre and rear-centre consoles have been redesigned, as too have the rear entertainment screens.

It features a new and sporty leather accented shift knob, seat and door trim quilting, stitching and piping have been refreshed, and there is a unique contrasting coloured double-stitch design on the centre armrest. Seating and headrest design has also been updated, adding to the elegant theme emanating from the front of the vehicle, to the rear.

“This a great update for Infiniti QX80, one that we think will attract new buyers to QX80 and to the brand,” said Infiniti product manager, Edward Trinh.

“The Infiniti QX80 offers a perfect blend of power, performance, luxury and safety – all key Infiniti brand attributes.

“Whether it’s the commanding exterior design, luxurious interior, or the abundance of advanced safety technologies, the Infiniti QX80 is the ideal vehicle for active families who want a premium drive experience every time they open the door.”

With the price for the Infiniti QX80 remaining unchanged at $110,900 plus on-road costs, the Nissan Patrol-based large SUV is powered by a 5.6-litre V8 engine developing 298kW of power and 560Nm of torque. It features All-Mode 4WD system paired with a 7-Speed automatic transmission, 22 inch forged aluminium-alloy wheels – with a new 18-spoke design – and a towing capacity of 3,500kgs.

It includes Bluetooth connectivity, navigation and a long list of standard safety including Blind Spot Monitoring, Intelligent Parking System, Forward Emergency Braking and Lane Departure Warning to name a few.

The QX80 is available in seven contemporary shades, including the all-new Champagne Quartz, Mineral Black and Moonstone White, the interior trim is an Espresso Burl colour with semi-aniline quilted leather graphite coloured upholstery.