2021 BMW X7 vs 2020 INFINITI QX80

The 2020 INFINITI QX80, as the flagship SUV in Infiniti’s lineup, presented a substantial presence with its refreshed exterior design from 2018. It featured modern details such as welcome lights, power-folding, auto-dimming, heated outside mirrors with integrated LED turn signals, and adaptive front lighting. The SUV was available in two trim levels: Luxe and Limited, offering a choice of nine paint jobs and three interior color schemes. The cabin, while upscale with soft-touch materials, had some trim pieces that fell short compared to competitors. The infotainment system was updated to a sleeker design, but the center stack's piano-black plastic was prone to fingerprints.

In contrast, the 2021 BMW X7 was noted for its superior interior quality and technological sophistication. It offered a more prestigious feel than the QX80, with a significant visual presence. The X7 was available in three versions, with the xDrive40i being the entry-level model. The test vehicle featured premium extended leather, a leather-wrapped dashboard, and an Alcantara suede headliner. The X7's styling was appealing, with traditional BMW cues and a massive grille that suited its large SUV stature. Inside, it shared high-tech design and high-quality materials with the X5, providing a luxurious and comfortable driving experience.

The 2020 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a 5.6-liter V8 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. Despite its heavy build, the powertrain managed the load well, though the transmission was clunky when downshifting. The QX80's fuel efficiency was a drawback, with the RWD model achieving 14 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway. The SUV offered Normal, Snow, and Mud drive modes, and its Hydraulic Body Motion Control system helped maintain stability. It had a towing capacity of 8,500 pounds and featured a rear auto-leveling suspension for a smooth ride.

The 2021 BMW X7 xDrive40i featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 335 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed sport automatic transmission. The eBoost mild-hybrid technology aimed to improve fuel economy, though the EPA ratings were slightly lower than the previous year. The X7 accelerated to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, offering ample power. The Dynamic Handling Package included features like Active Comfort Drive and M Sport brakes, enhancing the driving experience. Despite its nearly 5,400-pound curb weight, the X7 demonstrated effortless speed and fluidity, though it struggled with excessive body motions on curvy roads.

The 2020 INFINITI QX80 offered plush seating in the first two rows, with tighter third-row seating suitable for small children. It provided seating for seven with standard captain’s chairs and optional bench seating. The leather-appointed seats were available in perforated semi-aniline leather upholstery, and the driver’s seat was 10-way power-adjustable. The QX80 had 16.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 95.1 cubic feet with the second- and third-row seats folded.

The 2021 BMW X7, equipped with packages like the Cold Weather and Luxury Seating, provided a decadent interior. Front-seat comfort was outstanding, with heated front seats, armrests, and steering wheel as standard. The second-row captain's chairs were exceptionally comfortable, though access could be challenging due to long rear doors. The third-row seat was surprisingly accommodating for adults. The X7 offered 48.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the third row folded, and 90.4 cubic feet with the second row down, slightly less than class leaders.

The 2020 INFINITI QX80 featured an 8-inch upper and 7.0-inch lower infotainment touch screen, with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and navigation as standard. The system was functional but not particularly modern. A 13-speaker Bose stereo was standard, with an optional 17-speaker system. SiriusXM services were available with a four-year trial.

The 2021 BMW X7 came with Live Cockpit Professional digital instrumentation and iDrive 7.0 infotainment system, both using 12.3-inch displays. The system included Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and enhanced SiriusXM 360L. Features like wireless smartphone charging, natural voice recognition, and gesture control were included. The iDrive system offered a better user experience, though it could be distracting while driving.

The 2020 INFINITI QX80 included standard safety features like automatic emergency braking and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. The QX80 received "good" scores in some IIHS crash tests and had a moderate risk of rollover according to NHTSA.

The 2021 BMW X7 offered comprehensive safety technologies, with additional features available in the Driving Assistance Professional and Parking Assistance Packages. The X7's ADAS was smooth and trustworthy, though it had some issues with lane-maintenance technology. The Parking Assistance Package added semi-automated parking assist and a surround-view camera.