2020 INFINITI QX80 vs 2021 Land Rover Range Rover

The 2020 INFINITI QX80, as the flagship SUV in Infiniti’s lineup, was notably larger than its siblings, the two-row QX50 and three-row QX60. For the 2020 model year, it was available in two trim levels: Luxe and Limited. The QX80's exterior, refreshed in 2018, boasted a commanding presence with modern features such as welcome lights, power-folding, auto-dimming, heated outside mirrors with integrated LED turn signals, and adaptive front lighting. The SUV was equipped with automatic on/off LED headlights with high beam assist, enhancing its road presence. Comfort and convenience were prioritized with features like body-color running boards, a power-sliding tinted moonroof, and rear privacy glass. The QX80 offered nine paint options and three interior color schemes, with the Limited-grade models featuring matte silver and open-pore Ash wood trim. While the cabin materials had improved, some trim pieces still lagged behind competitors. The infotainment system had been updated to a more modern display, though the center stack's piano-black plastic was prone to fingerprints.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover had evolved from its rugged origins to a symbol of luxury. Starting at $92,000, the Range Rover offered a wide range of powertrains and personalization options, with the long-wheelbase version reaching prices upwards of $250,000. Our test vehicle, priced at $106,715, featured the HSE Westminster special-edition trim. Despite its age, the Range Rover's design remained timeless, with hallmark features like blacked-out windshield and roof pillars, and clean styling. Inside, the Range Rover exuded luxury with its Ivory-color interior and mid-century modern ambiance. While the InControl Touch Pro Duo infotainment system wasn't as advanced as newer models, it was manageable. The Range Rover's interior was a blend of luxury and practicality, though the second row lacked comfort compared to the front seats.

The 2020 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a 5.6-liter V8 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. Despite its weight, the QX80's powertrain managed the load well, though the transmission was clunky when downshifting. Fuel efficiency was a downside, with the RWD model achieving 14 mpg city and 20 mpg highway, while the 4WD model dropped to 13 mpg city and 19 mpg highway. The QX80 offered Normal, Snow, and Mud drive modes, and its off-road capabilities were commendable. Steering was light at low speeds, but highway driving required constant attention. The optional Hydraulic Body Motion Control system and standard rear auto-leveling suspension contributed to a smooth ride, and the QX80 had an 8,500-pound towing capacity.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover offered various powertrains, including a mild-hybrid turbocharged inline-six engine with 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. The eight-speed automatic transmission and electric motor assistance provided a smooth driving experience. The Range Rover's 4WD system and Terrain Response 2 traction control ensured off-road prowess, though our test was limited to a well-traveled trail. The adaptive air suspension provided a classic wafting sensation, and the SUV's turning radius and surround-view camera system made city maneuvering easy. While the HSE Westminster trim required a measured approach to mountain roads, the Range Rover excelled at a sedate pace. The EPA estimated 20 mpg combined, though our test averaged 18.5 mpg.

The 2020 INFINITI QX80 offered 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 60/40 split-folding bench. The leather-appointed seats were available in perforated semi-aniline leather, and Alcantara seats with quilting were an option. The driver’s seat was 10-way power-adjustable, and the passenger’s seat was eight-way adjustable, both with lumbar support. Heated and climate-controlled front seats were standard, with heated second-row seats available. The QX80 provided 16.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 95.1 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover featured an air suspension with a kneel mode for easier access. The front seats were decadently comfortable, but the second row lacked thigh support and adjustability. Despite this, the back seat offered quad-zone climate control and heated and ventilated outboard seating. Storage space was limited, with dual glove compartments compensating for the small center-console bin. Luggage volume was also restricted, with 25 cubic feet available behind the rear seats and 59.8 cubic feet with seats folded. A button in the cargo area activated the suspension kneel function for easier loading.

The 2020 INFINITI QX80 came with an 8-inch upper and 7.0-inch lower infotainment touch screen, allowing for split functionality. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation, satellite radio, Bluetooth, keyless entry, remote start, and a 13-speaker Bose stereo. Upgrades included a rear-seat entertainment system and a 17-inch Bose system. The infotainment system was user-friendly but not particularly modern.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover featured a fully digital instrumentation and infotainment system with three displays. The InControl Touch Pro Duo system was not entirely intuitive, and using the touchscreens while driving was distracting. The Range Rover offered a head-up display, though it was not visible with polarized sunglasses. The Activity Key wristband allowed for keyless access, and the iGuide smartphone app served as a digital owner’s manual.

The 2020 INFINITI QX80 included standard safety features like 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 risk of rollover according to NHTSA.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover came with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. Optional packages added features like adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree surround-view camera. The HSE Westminster Edition included the Drive Pro and Park packages, though the adaptive cruise control was slow to respond.