2019 INFINITI QX80 vs 2020 Lexus GX

The 2019 INFINITI QX80, despite its age, maintained a commanding presence as Infiniti's flagship model. Its front end, restyled in 2018, featured elegant slim, slanted LED headlights and a curved rectangular grille with a classic crosshatch pattern. The hood and front bumper had sensuous curves that contrasted with the boxy profile starting behind the windshield. The rear-quarter glass and LED taillights, connected by a thin chrome strip, helped break up the vehicle's chunkiness. Standard 20-inch wheels, tall side mirrors, and a towering roof emphasized its big-rig persona. However, the rear bumper's turn signals, using cheap incandescent bulbs, were a minor disappointment. The Limited trim introduced two-tone 22-inch rims, unique grey metallic paint, and a luxurious black-and-white interior with leather surfaces, microsuede inserts, and wavy stitching. Despite its high-quality interior, the QX80's doors were thin-sounding and poorly insulated, allowing cold air to seep in during freezing conditions.

The 2020 Lexus GX, although long in the tooth, received some design tweaks, including the hourglass grille design that had become a staple in the Lexus lineup. The GX wore this grille better than its larger sibling, the LX. Despite the updated front end and headlights, the GX's decade-old design was evident, yet it continued to thrive due to its shared platform with the Toyota 4Runner, known for its rugged capability. The GX's cabin retained its early 2010s styling, with a large, chunky center console and big buttons. While this interior might not suit a new Lexus RX, it worked for the GX's rugged nature. The GX was available in three trims: the 460, 460 Premium, and 460 Luxury, each offering a range of features. The Luxury trim, tested here, included premium leather upholstery, a heated steering wheel, and power-folding third-row seats. The optional rear-seat entertainment system, though dated, was available. CarGurus recommended the base 460 trim for its well-equipped nature and Amazon Alexa integration.

The 2019 INFINITI QX80 boasted a robust performance with its 5.6-liter V8 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain, paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission, allowed the QX80 to tow up to 8,500 pounds, surpassing competitors like the Mercedes GLS and BMW X7. The QX80's steering was light yet precise, making it easy to handle on highways. It featured a fully independent suspension with Hydraulic Body Motion Control, enhancing its on-road performance. However, its fuel economy was poor, averaging 15 mpg, with EPA ratings of 13 mpg city, 19 highway, and 15 combined for 4WD models.

The 2020 Lexus GX 460 was powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. While its power figures might not impress compared to modern engines, the V8 provided a satisfying swell of power. The GX's steering was light but direct, offering a composed ride. Equipped with a self-leveling air suspension, the GX delivered a smooth ride and impressive off-road capability. Its 4WD system, combined with various chassis controls, made it a formidable off-road vehicle. The GX could tow up to 6,500 pounds and had a tight turning radius of 19 feet. However, its fuel economy was also lackluster, with an observed average of 16.3 mpg.

The 2019 INFINITI QX80 offered seven-passenger seating with standard second-row captain's chairs and power-reclining third-row seats. An optional second-row bench allowed for eight passengers. The QX80 provided 95.1 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats folded, or 16.6 cubic feet with all seats upright. The interior featured ample storage space, vents for climate control, and heated front and second-row seats. However, it lacked a cooled drink bin and 4-zone climate control, and the heating system was slow to warm up.

The 2020 Lexus GX offered second-row captain's chairs on Premium and Luxury trims, with power-folding third-row seats standard on the Luxury trim. The GX's cargo space was limited to 64.7 cubic feet with all seats folded. It featured a side-opening rear hatch and a separately opening rear window/hatch. While the GX's interior was not as spacious as some competitors, it provided a practical layout for families.

The 2019 INFINITI QX80's technology was outdated, with a simple touchscreen and a monochrome display on the instrument panel. It lacked Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and advanced features like a head-up display or semi-automated driving functions. The 15-speaker Bose stereo was adequate, and the rear-view mirror offered a live camera-feed overlay. The rear entertainment system accepted USB and HDMI inputs but was otherwise lacking in modern tech features.

The 2020 Lexus GX's infotainment system was also dated, featuring a true touchscreen with large buttons for audio, navigation, and climate controls. However, it lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Despite its simplicity, the system was user-friendly compared to modern Lexus setups.

The 2019 INFINITI QX80 came with standard forward automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, while other features like lane-departure warning and adaptive cruise control were optional. It received a 4-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with poor frontal crash test scores but excellent side-impact results. The IIHS had not tested the QX80.

The 2020 Lexus GX came standard with the Lexus Safety System+, including forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. It also featured blind-spot monitoring and an available surround-view camera. The GX offered excellent visibility with large windows and mirrors, enhancing safety.