2021 INFINITI QX80 vs 2020 Lexus GX

The 2020 Lexus GX, despite its age, continued to impress with its rugged design and capability. Introduced in 2002 and redesigned for the 2010 model year, the GX received some new design tweaks for 2020, including the hourglass grille that became a signature of the Lexus lineup. While this grille design was polarizing on other models, it suited the GX well. The vehicle's decade-old platform, shared with the Toyota 4Runner, emphasized its rugged capability over modern innovation, making it a favorite among those who valued off-road prowess.

Inside, the GX's cabin showed its age with a design that remained largely unchanged from a decade ago. The large, chunky center console and big buttons were reminiscent of early 2010s Lexus styling. While this might not appeal to those seeking the latest in luxury interiors, it worked for a rugged SUV like the GX. The vehicle was available in three trims: the 460, 460 Premium, and 460 Luxury, each offering a range of features from leather upholstery and a power sunroof to advanced navigation and rear-seat entertainment systems.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80, on the other hand, combined elements from both the Nissan Armada and Infiniti's design language. The body-on-frame construction, shared with the Armada, provided a robust foundation, while the front-end styling, introduced in 2018, gave the QX80 a distinctive and assertive look. Standard LED headlights, taillights, and fog lights, along with available dark chrome trim, added to its upscale appearance. The QX80's interior, while luxurious, closely resembled the Armada's, with wood trim, contrast stitching, and standard leather upholstery enhancing its appeal.

The QX80's cabin offered a mix of luxury and practicality, with features like a 10-way-adjustable power driver’s seat, an eight-way front passenger’s seat, and a driver’s memory system. However, the front seats lacked thigh support, which could be uncomfortable on long trips. Passenger space was competitive, and the vehicle offered a seven-seat configuration with second-row captain’s chairs or an optional eight-seat configuration. Cargo space was generous, though it trailed behind competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator.

The 2020 Lexus GX 460 was powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and standard 4-wheel drive. While these figures might not impress compared to modern V6 or turbocharged engines, the V8 provided a satisfying swell of power in real-world driving. The GX's light yet responsive steering and self-leveling air suspension contributed to a smooth and composed ride, making it capable both on and off the road. The GX could tow up to 6,500 pounds and had a tight turning radius of 19 feet, making it surprisingly maneuverable for a large SUV. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, with estimates of 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 featured a 5.6-liter V8 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive was standard, with 4WD available as an option. The V8 engine provided ample power for highway overtaking, though the transmission shifts could have been smoother. The QX80's independent suspension and Hydraulic Body Motion Control on Sensory models ensured a comfortable ride, though some shudders were detectable over bumps. The QX80's handling was less composed in corners, but its speed-sensitive power steering promoted a relaxed driving style. The QX80 could tow up to 8,500 pounds, making it a strong contender for those needing towing capability.

The 2020 Lexus GX offered second-row captain's chairs on the Premium and Luxury trims, with power-folding third-row seats standard on the Luxury trim. The captain's chairs provided easy access to the third row and a natural barrier between passengers. However, getting into the third row could be challenging for adults. With all rear seats folded, the GX offered 64.7 cubic feet of cargo space, which was less than some competitors. The side-opening rear hatch was unique but not particularly advantageous, though the separately opening rear window/hatch was a convenient feature.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 came standard with a seven-seat configuration, featuring second-row captain’s chairs and a center console, with an optional eight-seat configuration. Standard features included a 10-way-adjustable power driver’s seat, an eight-way front passenger’s seat, and a driver’s memory system. Passenger space was competitive, with enough room for adults in the third row. Cargo space was 16.6 cubic feet with all seats in place, 49.6 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 95.1 cubic feet with both the third and second rows folded. The power liftgate and power 60/40-split-folding third row made switching between passenger and cargo hauling easier.

The 2020 Lexus GX's infotainment system showed its age with a last-generation Lexus Enform setup. While it lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, it featured a true touchscreen with large buttons for audio, navigation, and climate controls, offering a simpler user interface compared to newer Lexus models.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 featured the Infiniti InTouch dual-screen infotainment system with 8.0-inch upper and 7.0-inch lower touchscreens, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a built-in WiFi hotspot, and navigation. The system included analog controls, but the user interface was not intuitive, requiring trial and error to operate. The Smart Rearview Mirror and Around View Monitor 360-degree camera system were helpful features for driving the large SUV.

The 2020 Lexus GX came standard with the Lexus Safety System+, including forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. Blind-spot monitoring and a surround-view camera were also available. The GX's great visibility, with large windows and mirrors, added to its safety.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with five stars for side crash tests, four stars for frontal crash tests, and a three-star rollover rating. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, and Backup Collision Intervention.