After nearly a decade of relatively unchanged designs, the long-awaited 2025 INFINITI QX80 has finally arrived, and it’s clear that the wait was worth it. For the next few days, I’ll be putting this stunning new luxury SUV through its paces, and I can confidently say this is no ordinary upgrade. As someone who’s driven the QX80 in some of the world’s most challenging terrains -whether it’s the smooth highways of Dubai, the ancient roads of Petra, or the vast Gobi Desert -I’ve grown quite familiar with INFINITI’s flagship SUV.
Today, I am once again with the good folks at INFINITI at an exotic location. Staring down the scenic Hajar Mountains from the top in Oman, admiring the magnificent views and the roads I’ll be driving the brand-new, third-generation QX80 (Z63). I can feel it promises to be something special.
The power under the hood
First, let’s talk about what’s powering this beast. Gone is the previous generation’s mighty 5.6-liter naturally aspirated V8, replaced by a sleek, twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine. With 450 horsepower and 701 Nm of torque, the new QX80 is both more efficient and, dare I say, more impressive. The transition from the old V8’s thunderous roar to the V6’s smooth acceleration is immediately noticeable. While the new engine delivers power quietly, it still maintains enough character to remind you this is a luxury vehicle capable of real performance. In fact, the SUV can rocket from 0-100 km/h in just over 6 seconds, which is downright impressive for a vehicle of this size.
Pairing this engine with a nine-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth, seamless shifts, and INFINITI’s Electronic Air Suspension and Dynamic Digital Suspension keep the ride as smooth as the road ahead – whether that’s winding mountain passes or uneven desert trails. During my drive through Oman’s dramatic Hajar Mountains, the SUV’s performance was nothing short of stunning. The power delivery was perfectly timed, and the handling felt agile for such a large, almost three-ton vehicle.
Tech upgrades that make a difference
INFINITI has certainly upped the ante when it comes to technology in the QX80. The new generation comes standard with cutting-edge safety features like Predictive Forward Collision Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking, and Blind Spot Intervention. For those in the Gulf region, the ProPILOT Assist system – which includes adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance – makes every drive feel effortless. While U.S. customers will also get the advanced ProPILOT Assist 2.1, which allows for hands-free driving (not yet legal in the GCC), it’s clear that INFINITI is gearing up for a tech-centric future.
The look: Bold, sleek, and elegant
The exterior of the 2025 QX80 makes an unforgettable statement. It’s a sharp departure from its predecessors, signaling the future of INFINITI’s design language. With bold, sculpted lines, a signature double-arch grille inspired by Japanese bamboo gardens and striking “Digital Piano Key” LED Daytime Running Lights, the QX80 is as eye-catching as it is luxurious. Plush door handles not only boost aerodynamics but add an extra layer of sophistication, while the full-width rear LED light bar takes the SUV’s futuristic appearance to new heights.
Step inside, and the luxury experience is even more pronounced. INFINITI has pulled out all the stops, utilizing Japanese craftsmanship and high-end materials like leather, wood, and suede to create a cabin that feels as serene as it does opulent. The three-row seating configuration is designed for ultimate comfort, with heated and ventilated seats in the first and second rows, along with massaging capabilities. Even the third row is a treat, featuring heated seats and a convenient power-reclining function for easy access.
As for the driver’s cockpit, it’s clear INFINITI has made significant strides. The dashboard is dominated by two 14.3-inch displays: One for the gauge cluster and one for infotainment. A third, smaller 9.0-inch touchscreen below manages climate control and drive modes. But perhaps the most impressive feature is the 24-speaker Klipsch sound system. Embedded speakers in the headrest use frequency management and noise-cancellation technology, creating a “sound bubble” so you can take calls in private without disturbing your passengers. A unique infrared sensor system even detects the body temperature of rear passengers and adjusts the climate control accordingly, enhancing the comfort of everyone on board.
Read: Numarine charges ahead with the first diesel-electric yacht
A new beginning for INFINITI
At the official launch of the QX80, we meet Leon Dorssers, Regional Senior Vice President of Marketing and Sales for AMEO. He explains: “It’s been a long time in the making and means a lot to us. First, it’s our flagship vehicle, and from an experience point of view, it’s the highest segment we’re entering with the INFINITI brand. But it’s also the beginning of a new era for INFINITI. This vehicle represents a renaissance – a new product stream, a new design language, and a new vision for the future.”
Indeed, the 2024 QX80 feels like a bold step forward, not just for INFINITI, but for the luxury SUV market as a whole. From its powerhouse engine and advanced tech to its luxurious interior and cutting-edge design, the new QX80 is not just a vehicle – it’s a statement.
