2020 INFINITI QX80 vs 2021 BMW X5

The 2020 INFINITI QX80, as the flagship SUV in Infiniti’s lineup, was notably larger than its siblings, the QX50 and QX60. For this model year, it was available in two trims: Luxe and Limited. The QX80's exterior, refreshed in 2018, boasted a commanding presence with modern features such as welcome lights, power-folding mirrors with integrated LED turn signals, and adaptive front lighting. The SUV was equipped with automatic LED headlights and a variety of comfort features, including a power-sliding moonroof and roof rails. Buyers could choose from nine paint options and three interior color schemes, with the Limited model offering premium materials like matte silver and Ash wood trim. While the cabin was upscale with soft-touch materials, some trim pieces fell short compared to competitors, and the piano-black plastic center stack was prone to fingerprints.

The 2021 BMW X5 was a testament to BMW's reputation for high-quality craftsmanship. As part of BMW's SUV lineup, the X5 maintained the brand's signature design elements, such as the kidney grille and body shape, ensuring it was unmistakably a BMW. The X5 featured full adaptive LED headlights and a choice of trim levels, including the sporty M Sport styling. The interior, while consistent with BMW's design language, was criticized for its abundance of black plastic, though it offered plenty of leather and soft-touch materials. The M Sport models included unique styling elements like an M sports steering wheel and model-exclusive trim strips. Despite the interior's sameness, it was well-crafted, providing a comfortable and quiet ride.

The 2020 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a robust 5.6-liter V8 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. While the powertrain managed the SUV's weight well, the transmission was less smooth when downshifting compared to competitors. The QX80's fuel efficiency was a drawback, with the RWD model achieving 14 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway, while the 4WD version fared slightly worse. The SUV offered Normal, Snow, and Mud drive modes, and its off-road capabilities were commendable. The QX80 featured two steering systems, with the Limited model offering vehicle-speed-sensitive power-assist steering. Despite its size, the QX80 was easy to maneuver at low speeds, though highway driving required constant attention. The optional Hydraulic Body Motion Control system improved handling, and the SUV had a towing capacity of 8,500 pounds.

The 2021 BMW X5 offered a range of powertrain options, all paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base model featured a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. The X5 M50i boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 with 523 horsepower, while the X5 M delivered up to 617 horsepower with the Competition Package. The new X5 xDrive45e plug-in hybrid achieved 389 horsepower and offered up to 30 miles of all-electric range. The transition between power modes was seamless, though the steering dynamics were less engaging than expected from a BMW. The X5's ride was comfortable, with minimal road noise, and the suspension absorbed bumps well. Charging the plug-in hybrid was convenient, and it offered a combined range of about 400 miles. Fuel efficiency varied, with the X5 M being the least efficient at 15 mpg combined, while the xDrive45e achieved 50 MPGe.

The 2020 INFINITI QX80 provided plush seating in the first two rows, though the third row was cramped, making it suitable for children or pets. The SUV offered seating for seven with standard captain’s chairs, and buyers could opt for a second-row bench seat. The leather-appointed seats were available in various upholsteries, and the front seats were power-adjustable with lumbar support. Heated and climate-controlled front seats were standard, with heated second-row seats available. The QX80 featured a heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel and a dual-occupant memory system. Cargo space was generous, with 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 95.1 cubic feet with the seats folded. A power liftgate was standard.

The 2021 BMW X5 made efficient use of space, with well-placed cupholders and a wireless phone charging pad. The seating was comfortable for short trips, though the front seats could feel hard over longer journeys. The rear seats accommodated adults comfortably, and an optional third row was available. The climate controls were user-friendly, and the split liftgate was easy to operate, with a vehicle height adjustment feature for loading cargo. The X5 offered ample cargo space, though the plug-in hybrid model had slightly less room. Accessing the second-row seats was somewhat challenging due to narrow door openings.

The 2020 INFINITI QX80 came with an 8-inch upper and a 7-inch lower infotainment touchscreen, allowing for split functionality. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation, satellite radio, Bluetooth, keyless entry, remote start, and a moonroof. Buyers could upgrade to a rear-seat entertainment system and a WiFi hotspot. The infotainment system was functional but lacked modern design elements.

The 2021 BMW X5 featured a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system occasionally took over music operations unexpectedly. Standard features included a digital gauge cluster, a 10-speaker sound system, voice recognition, Bluetooth, and a panoramic moonroof. Optional upgrades included a head-up display, massaging seats, and premium audio systems. The iDrive system required some acclimation but was intuitive once familiar.

The 2020 INFINITI QX80 offered a solid array of safety features, including automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and a surround-view camera system. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. The QX80 received "good" scores in some IIHS crash tests and had a moderate rollover risk according to NHTSA.

The 2021 BMW X5 was equipped with numerous standard safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. However, the Driving Assistance Professional Package had issues with lane-keeping and adaptive cruise control, particularly in bright sunlight or rain. The X5 received high safety ratings from IIHS and a four-star overall rating from NHTSA.