2020 INFINITI QX80 vs 2019 BMW X5

The 2019 BMW X5 was designed with a focus on delivering a sedan-like driving experience, despite its size and weight. BMW prioritized on-road comfort over off-road capabilities, recognizing that most SUV owners preferred a smooth ride on pavement. The X5 offered a five-passenger layout, expandable to seven, though the third row was notably cramped. It came with two turbocharged engine options: a 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder and a 4.4-liter V8, both paired with a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission. The base xDrive40i model included a comprehensive suite of features and safety technologies, with various packages available to enhance luxury, sportiness, or off-road capability.

The 2020 INFINITI QX80, as Infiniti's flagship SUV, was significantly larger than its siblings, the QX50 and QX60. It was available in two trims: Luxe and Limited. The QX80's exterior had been refreshed in 2018, giving it a more commanding presence with modern lighting and convenience features. The interior offered three color schemes and improved material quality, though some trim pieces lagged behind competitors. The cabin was spacious and filled with soft-touch materials, but the center stack's piano-black plastic was prone to fingerprints. The infotainment system had been updated for a more modern look, though it still featured some outdated elements.

The 2019 BMW X5 was praised for its performance, particularly the xDrive40i's turbocharged inline 6-cylinder engine, which delivered 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. The xDrive50i's V8 engine offered even more power, with 456 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. The X5's 8-speed automatic transmission was smooth and efficient, contributing to its impressive fuel economy of 20 mpg city, 26 highway, and 22 combined. The X5's ride quality was enhanced by its Cluster Architecture platform and optional air suspension, providing a smooth yet sporty experience.

The 2020 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a 5.6-liter V8 engine, producing 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission, the QX80's powertrain was capable but less refined than some competitors. Its fuel efficiency was a drawback, with the RWD model achieving 14 mpg city, 20 highway, and 16 combined, while the 4WD model fared slightly worse. The QX80 offered various drive modes and steering systems, with the Limited model featuring vehicle-speed-sensitive power-assist steering. Its Hydraulic Body Motion Control system and rear auto-leveling suspension contributed to a relatively smooth ride.

Inside the 2019 BMW X5, the design had shifted to aggressive angles and dual 12.3-inch screens for the iDrive infotainment system. While the design was appealing, some materials felt cheap compared to competitors. The seats were somewhat uncomfortable, lacking ventilation and proper lumbar support. However, the X5 offered ample space, with 33.9 cubic feet of cargo space expandable to 72.3 cubic feet. The split rear tailgate and air suspension made loading cargo easier, and the X5 could tow up to 7,200 pounds.

The 2020 INFINITI QX80 provided plush seating in the first two rows, though the third row was cramped. Standard seating for seven included captain's chairs in the second row, with an optional bench seat. The leather-appointed seats were available in various materials, and the front seats were power-adjustable with heating and climate control. The QX80's cargo space was generous, with 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 49.6 cubic feet behind the second row, and 95.1 cubic feet with all seats folded. A power liftgate was standard.

The 2019 BMW X5's technology was a mixed bag. The gesture control and voice commands were inconsistent, and the iDrive interface, while well-designed, was less intuitive than some competitors. The Driving Assistance Plus package offered limited hands-off driving, but its high-speed performance was unreliable. The X5's adaptive cruise control and Parking Assistant Plus were more effective, and the optional Harman Kardon stereo provided excellent sound quality.

The 2020 INFINITI QX80 featured an 8-inch upper and 7-inch lower infotainment touch screen, with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and navigation as standard. The system was functional but not particularly modern. Standard features included a 13-speaker Bose stereo, with an optional 17-speaker system. SiriusXM services were available with a complimentary four-year trial. The infotainment system was easy to use but otherwise unremarkable.

The 2019 BMW X5 featured a new brake-by-wire setup, providing a nearly natural feel. It received a 4-star rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS, with top scores in all tests.

The 2020 INFINITI QX80 offered a range of standard and available safety features, including automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The IIHS rated it "good" in moderate overlap front and side crash tests, while the NHTSA noted better side crashworthiness and a moderate rollover risk.