2022 Subaru Forester vs 2021 INFINITI QX80

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 showcased a blend of Nissan Armada and Infiniti design elements. Its body-on-frame construction, shared with the Armada, was evident in the roofline profile and rear window curves. The QX80's front end, however, was distinctly Infiniti, featuring a bold grille and headlight design that gave it an assertive yet refined look. Standard LED headlights, taillights, and fog lights, along with 20-inch wheels on the base model and 22-inch wheels on higher trims, added to its luxurious appearance. Inside, the QX80's interior closely resembled the Armada, with wood trim, contrast stitching, and leather upholstery enhancing its luxury feel, though some elements like the foot-operated parking brake felt less premium.

In contrast, the 2022 Subaru Forester, particularly in its Wilderness trim, emphasized rugged functionality over flashy aesthetics. The Wilderness model featured a suspension lift, higher ride height, and extensive protective cladding, giving it a robust, overlanding look. Inside, the Forester prioritized practicality with water-repellant StarTex simulated leather, all-weather floor mats, and a washable cargo area. The interior, while functional and well-constructed, felt somewhat dated and inexpensive. The 8-inch Starlink infotainment system was user-friendly, though the presence of three display screens was less than ideal. Overall, the Forester's design focused on utility and ease of use, appealing to those seeking a practical and durable SUV.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a 5.6-liter V8 engine producing 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive was standard, with a 4WD option available. The V8 engine provided ample power for highway overtaking, though the transmission shifts could have been smoother. The QX80's body-on-frame construction, combined with independent suspension and Hydraulic Body Motion Control on Sensory models, delivered a comfortable ride, though some shudders were noticeable over bumps. The SUV's handling was less composed in corners, with significant body roll, but the speed-sensitive power steering promoted a relaxed driving style. The QX80 excelled in towing and off-road capability, with a maximum towing capacity of 8,500 pounds and a 4WD drivetrain with low range and a forward skid plate.

The 2022 Subaru Forester continued with its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. All Foresters featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive, with the Wilderness model offering a 25% increase in initial torque supply and a doubled towing capacity of 3,000 pounds. The Forester's fuel economy was competitive, averaging 25.9 mpg during testing. While the engine was adequate at sea level, it felt sluggish at higher altitudes. The CVT's eight programmed ratios and SI-Drive's Sport mode improved the driving experience, though a turbocharger would have been beneficial. The Forester's dual-function X-Mode system and re-tuned suspension enhanced its off-road capabilities, with the Wilderness model excelling on various terrains. The long-travel suspension provided a smooth ride, and the SUV handled well on forest roads, though engine power and wind noise were drawbacks.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 offered a three-row seating configuration, with standard seven seats and an optional eight-seat layout. The front seats featured 10-way and 8-way adjustability, with heating and cooling on Sensory models, though thigh support was lacking. Passenger space was competitive, with ample room in all three rows. Cargo space measured 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 center console provided limited storage, and the front-door cupholders were not well-designed for holding drinks.

The 2022 Subaru Forester emphasized functionality, with easy entry and exit due to tall seating hip points. The Wilderness model featured water-resistant StarTex upholstery, all-weather floor mats, and a rubber cargo mat, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The upgraded roof rails accommodated a dynamic load of 220 pounds and a static load of 800 pounds, suitable for a roof tent. The Forester's interior offered high comfort levels, with excellent visibility and rear air conditioning vents. Cargo space measured 28.9 cubic feet without the panoramic sunroof and 26.9 cubic feet with it, expanding to 74.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The squared-off cargo area and new ceiling cargo hooks added to its practicality.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 featured the Infiniti InTouch dual-screen infotainment system with 8.0-inch and 7.0-inch touchscreens, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a built-in WiFi hotspot, and navigation. The system included Bluetooth, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a 13-speaker Bose audio system, with optional upgrades to a 17-speaker system and a rear-seat entertainment package. However, the user interface was not intuitive, with small screens and complex controls. The Smart Rearview Mirror and Around View Monitor 360-degree camera system were helpful features for driving the large SUV.

The 2022 Subaru Forester came with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system in base trim, offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, satellite radio, HD Radio, and Starlink connected services. Higher trims featured an 8-inch screen, navigation, and a Harman Kardon premium sound system. The Wilderness model included a 180-degree forward-view camera for off-roading. The infotainment system was user-friendly, though the voice recognition system was inconsistent. The PIN Code Access feature allowed for keyless entry, adding to the Forester's practicality for outdoor activities.

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. The IIHS had not tested the QX80. 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.

The 2022 Subaru Forester introduced the EyeSight 4.0 safety system, with improved camera-based technology and a new Automatic Emergency Steering system. EyeSight 4.0 included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and lane-centering assist. The Forester also featured a rear-seat reminder system, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear automatic braking. The Touring trim added DriverFocus, a facial recognition technology for monitoring drowsiness and distraction. The NHTSA awarded the Forester a 5-star overall crash-test rating, and it was expected to retain the IIHS "Top Safety Pick+" rating.