2022 INFINITI QX80 vs 2023 Lexus GX

The 2022 INFINITI QX80, at first glance, bore a strong resemblance to the Nissan Armada, sharing its platform, mechanicals, and general layout. This wasn't necessarily a drawback, as both SUVs were considered good-looking. The QX80's size was just right, not too big or too small. Its front-end styling was unique, thanks to the distinctive Infiniti grille, which was prominent but not overdone. LED lighting was tastefully integrated, and the conservative use of chrome added an upscale look. The stylish 22-inch dark chrome alloy wheels on higher trims further enhanced its exterior appeal.

Inside, the QX80's cabin featured more upscale materials compared to the Armada, though Nissan's design theme was still evident. The Sensory-trim test vehicle boasted tasteful wood trim and attractive quilted semi-aniline Saddle Brown leather seats. Despite these luxurious touches, the QX80's interior style was becoming outdated. While the cabin was comfortable and upscale, it fell short of the high standards set by its premium full-size SUV competitors.

The 2023 Lexus GX had a commanding visual presence with its huge spindle grille, 8.1 inches of ground clearance, and a total height of 74.2 inches. The front end looked ready to conquer the road, framed by massive headlights. The GX Black Line Special Edition returned for 2023, limited to 3,000 units and available in three paint colors, including the exclusive Nori Green Pearl.

From the side, the GX's dimensions seemed to shrink, with a short 109.8-inch wheelbase and minimal overhangs. This design made it look ready for off-road adventures. The GX's overall aesthetic leaned sleeker compared to Toyota's blocky designs. The hood fell away from sight sooner than on a 4Runner or Tundra, making it easier to place in technical driving situations. However, the interior featured a disappointing amount of plastic, reflecting its low sales volume and the need for easy manufacturing. Despite this, the GX still offered luxury touches like heated and cooled front seats, a power-retracting steering wheel, and impressive leather upholstery.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a robust 400-horsepower, 5.6-liter V8 engine with 413 lb-ft of torque. This engine delivered strong performance and a pleasing exhaust note. However, it was thirsty and required premium fuel. The seven-speed automatic transmission provided seamless and smooth shifts, distributing power effectively. The QX80's off-road capability was notable, with 2WD standard and 4WD available for an additional $3,100. The 4WD system featured a computer-controlled transfer case with settings for Automatic, 4Hi, and 4Lo. The QX80 had a ground clearance of 9.2 inches, making it capable of handling challenging terrain. It also had a generous towing capacity of 8,500 pounds. The available Hydraulic Body Motion Control system helped control body lean during cornering, but the QX80's tall and heavy nature was still evident.

The 2023 Lexus GX was defined by its 4.6-liter V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. While it didn't win on paper compared to more advanced engines, the GX's V8 provided a satisfying sound and linear power delivery. The GX had a towing capacity of 6,500 pounds, which was respectable but not class-leading. Fuel economy was a downside, with EPA estimates of 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined. The GX's weight made it roll through corners, but the roll was predictable and controllable. The steering was vague off-center, but the brakes were strong and reliable. The GX featured a Torsen torque-sensing limited-slip differential, distributing power in a 40:60 front-to-rear split, which adjusted based on wheel slip. This made it user-friendly in various driving conditions.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 required a climb to enter due to its tall ride height, aided by a grab handle on the A-pillar. Once inside, the cabin felt spacious and airy, with good front-seat head- and legroom. Forward visibility was commendable, though the sideview mirrors were a bit small. The power-sliding moonroof was smaller than panoramic designs on other Infiniti models. The QX80 could seat up to eight passengers with the optional second-row bench seat, but the third row was cramped for adults. Cargo space was limited, with 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 49.6 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 95.1 cubic feet with all seats folded. The power-operated liftgate was slow, but illuminated kick plates and exterior welcome lighting added a premium touch.

The 2023 Lexus GX offered plenty of cubby space for small items, with a deep center console bin and a handy space ahead of the shifter for a phone. The cupholders were conveniently placed, and there were two USB-A ports in the forward cubby. The GX retained physical controls with hard buttons, which was a blessing for those who preferred them over touchscreens. The center console lid had sliding mechanisms for adjustable armrests. The second row was comfortable, with captain's chairs or a three-across bench seat option. Legroom was adequate, and headroom was excellent. The third row was tight and best suited for emergencies. The side-hinged trunk door required muscle to open and offered limited cargo space, with 11.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 46.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 64.7 cubic feet with both rows folded.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 featured a new 12.3-inch Infiniti InTouch display with Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The display also included navigation, voice recognition, and Infiniti InTouch connected services. A Bose 13-speaker premium sound system was standard, with a 17-speaker Performance Series Bose system on the top Sensory trim. The QX80 also had multiple USB ports, illuminated steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, and a wireless smartphone charger. The dual-screen rear entertainment system was included but lacked HDMI adapters. Notably, the QX80 did not have Infiniti's ProPilot Assist advanced driving-assistance system due to its older vehicle systems architecture.

The 2023 Lexus GX had a 10.3-inch touchscreen that was a significant improvement over the old system. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The Lexus Remote Touch Interface was still present but unnecessary due to the improved touchscreen. The GX came with three years of Lexus Enform Remote, a remote-start feature operable from a smartphone. The Luxury trim level included a 17-speaker Mark Levinson premium stereo and a CD player. However, the touchscreen lagged, and the graphics were not as crisp as those in competing models. The GX excelled in off-road capability, with a real 4WD system, a two-speed transfer case, low range, and a locking center differential. It also had downhill assist, hill-start assist, traction control, and stability control. The Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) leveled the vehicle in various driving conditions, and the Off-Road Package added features like a multi-terrain monitor and crawl control.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 came with a comprehensive set of standard safety features, including forward automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring with lane-departure prevention, forward-collision warning, backup collision intervention, a smart rearview mirror, and adaptive cruise control. Additional safety features included driver attention alert, front knee airbags, and seat belt pre-tensioners for second-row outboard passengers. The NHTSA had not rated the 2022 QX80 for crashworthiness, but the structurally similar 2021 model received four stars for overall crash protection.

The 2023 Lexus GX had not been crash tested by the NHTSA or IIHS. However, it included advanced driver assistance systems such as automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, parking assist, and automatic high beams. Despite its older body structure, the GX's safety features were up-to-date.