2023 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2022 INFINITI QX80

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 shared a familial resemblance with the Nissan Armada, boasting a platform and mechanical similarities. Despite its large size, the QX80 was considered well-proportioned, neither too big nor too small. Its front-end styling was distinct, featuring a prominent yet tasteful Infiniti grille, complemented by LED lighting and conservative chrome use. The 22-inch dark chrome alloy wheels added a touch of elegance. Inside, the QX80's cabin was adorned with upscale materials, including wood trim and quilted semi-aniline leather seats. However, its design was beginning to feel outdated compared to competitors in the premium SUV market.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 underwent subtle styling changes, including gloss black trim on the front bumper and a squared-off rear bumper for improved aerodynamics. New wheel designs and a light-up rear VW logo were introduced. While the ID.4 was unmistakably an EV, it lacked the traditional SUV profile, which might have been a drawback for some buyers. Built on VW's MEB platform, the ID.4 offered a minimalist interior design with quality materials. The base model featured leatherette upholstery with recycled fibers, maintaining a sense of quality across trims.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a robust 400-horsepower, 5.6-liter V8 engine, delivering 413 lb-ft of torque. This engine was a highlight, providing strong performance and an appealing exhaust note. Paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission, the QX80 offered smooth and seamless shifts. It was available in both 2WD and 4WD, with a computer-controlled transfer case for off-road capability. The QX80 had a towing capacity of 8,500 pounds and managed body lean well, thanks to the Hydraulic Body Motion Control system.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 offered a choice between a 62-kWh battery for base models and an 82-kWh battery for higher trims. The single-motor RWD models produced 201 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque, while the dual-motor AWD models delivered 295 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds. The ID.4's handling was comfortable but allowed for some body roll. It featured regenerative braking but did not support one-pedal driving, providing a more traditional driving experience.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 required a climb to enter due to its tall ride height, aided by a grab handle. Inside, it offered a spacious cabin with good front-seat headroom and legroom. The QX80 could seat up to eight passengers, but the third row was cramped. Cargo space was limited compared to competitors, with 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row and 95.1 cubic feet with all seats folded.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 provided more interior space than other affordable EVs, with ample legroom and headroom. It offered 30.3 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats up and 64.2 cubic feet with them folded. The ID.4 had a towing capacity of 2,200 pounds for RWD and 2,700 pounds for AWD models. Interior updates included a conventional lid for the center console and three-zone climate control.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 featured a 12.3-inch Infiniti InTouch display with Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. A Bose 13-speaker sound system was standard, with a 17-speaker system on the Sensory trim. The QX80 lacked Infiniti's ProPilot Assist due to its older architecture, which limited advanced driver-assistance features.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 came standard with a 12.0-inch touchscreen, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system had software updates for improved responsiveness. The ID.4's user interface included haptic touchpads, which could be distracting, but voice recognition mitigated this issue. The ID.Light system provided ambient lighting and navigation assistance.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 included standard safety features like forward automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. It received a three-star rollover resistance rating from NHTSA, with the structurally similar 2021 model earning four stars for overall crash protection.

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, with top scores in frontal and side crash tests. The 2022 model earned the IIHS "Top Safety Pick+" rating, with high scores in crash tests and front crash prevention. The ID.4 included standard driver-assist features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and VW's Travel Assist 2.0.