2021 INFINITI QX80 vs 2022 Volvo XC90

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 curve. The QX80's front end, however, was distinctly Infiniti, featuring a bold grille and headlight design that gave it a confident yet not overly aggressive appearance. Standard LED lighting and large wheels added to its luxurious feel, though the interior, while dressed up with wood trim and leather, still bore a strong resemblance to the Armada, including a foot-operated parking brake.

In contrast, the 2022 Volvo XC90 represented a significant evolution from Volvo's boxy past, embracing a sleek, modern design. Built on the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform, the XC90 had a poised stance with a long, sleek roofline and pronounced wheel arches. The interior exuded "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury," with natural wood and metal trim, and unique features like a crystal gear selector. Volvo's commitment to sustainability was evident, with options for leather-free upholstery, though traditional Nappa leather was still available for those who preferred it.

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 four-wheel drive available as an option. The V8 engine provided ample power for highway overtaking, though the transmission shifts were not as smooth as expected. The QX80's body-on-frame construction, combined with independent suspension and Hydraulic Body Motion Control on Sensory models, delivered a comfortable ride, though it struggled with body roll in corners. The QX80 excelled in towing, with a capacity of up to 8,500 pounds, but its off-road capabilities were limited by its size and tire choices.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrain options: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version of the same engine delivering 316 horsepower, and the T8 plug-in hybrid combining a supercharged/turbocharged engine with an electric motor for a total of 455 horsepower. The XC90's engines required premium gasoline, with fuel economy varying by model. The T8, for instance, achieved 27 mpg combined on gas and 55 MPGe with an 18-mile electric range. The XC90's driving experience was impressive, with minimal body roll and smooth power delivery, especially in the T8 model, which provided spirited acceleration thanks to its electric motor.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 featured a three-row configuration with standard seven-seat capacity, though an eight-seat option was available. The front seats offered multiple adjustments but lacked thigh support, which could be uncomfortable on long trips. Passenger space was competitive, with ample room in all three rows, though cargo space was limited compared to rivals like the Cadillac Escalade. The QX80 provided 16.6 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats in place, expanding to 95.1 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. Storage options included a center console accessible from both front and back, though overall storage space was limited.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 came in six- and seven-passenger configurations, with easy access to the third row via a one-handed slide and fold mechanism. While the third row was suitable for children, it lacked legroom for adults. The XC90 offered 15.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 85.7 cubic feet with both rear rows folded. The XC90's interior was designed for practicality, with ample storage options and a spacious, airy cabin enhanced by a panoramic moonroof. The air-conditioning system performed well even in extreme heat, ensuring a comfortable environment for all passengers.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 came with the Infiniti InTouch dual-screen infotainment system, featuring 8.0-inch and 7.0-inch touchscreens, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a WiFi hotspot, and navigation. The system included a 13-speaker Bose audio system, with an optional 17-speaker upgrade and a rear-seat entertainment package. However, the user interface was not intuitive, with small screens and confusing controls. Helpful features included a Smart Rearview Mirror and an Around View Monitor 360-degree camera system.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen, offering familiar smartphone gestures. While the system was intuitive, it could be slow to respond. The XC90 also included a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and an optional head-up display. The standard Harman Kardon audio system could be upgraded to a Bowers & Wilkins system for superior sound quality. The XC90 provided multiple USB ports and a WiFi hotspot, with the Volvo Care app offering remote vehicle controls.

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

The 2022 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of safety, with features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, parking assist, rain-sensing wipers, lane-keeping aid, adaptive cruise control, and road-sign recognition. The Pilot Assist system combined several safety features for semi-autonomous driving on highways. The XC90 received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.