2022 Lexus GX vs 2022 INFINITI QX80

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 Black Line Special Edition was a striking vehicle, especially in its Black Onyx color, which eliminated almost all chrome from its exterior. This gave the SUV a bold, monochromatic appearance that was both modern and aggressive. However, despite its fresh paint job, the GX quickly showed signs of wear, as a layer of dust easily dulled its finish. The design of the GX, with its signature spindle grille and LED headlights, was reminiscent of its predecessors, maintaining a classic look that some might find outdated. Inside, the cabin was crafted with the high-quality materials Lexus is known for, offering a quiet and refined environment, though the overall design echoed the themes of earlier models.

In contrast, the 2022 INFINITI QX80 shared its platform with the Nissan Armada, yet it distinguished itself with a unique front-end design featuring the Infiniti grille. The QX80's styling was tasteful, with LED lighting and conservative chrome use adding to its upscale appearance. The 22-inch dark chrome alloy wheels further enhanced its exterior. Inside, the QX80's cabin was adorned with upscale materials, including wood trim and quilted leather seats, though the design was starting to feel dated. Despite this, the interior remained a comfortable and attractive space, although it fell short of the high standards set by its premium full-size SUV competitors.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 was powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a full-time 4WD system, provided a towing capacity of 6,500 pounds. The GX's performance was characterized by a leisurely 7.8-second sprint to 60 mph, and its fuel economy was rated at 16 mpg combined. The Kinetic Dynamics Suspension System (KDSS) improved the GX's ride quality, making it more stable and secure, though the steering was slow and heavy, and the brake pedal was touchy.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 boasted a more powerful 5.6-liter V8 engine with 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque. This engine, coupled with a seven-speed automatic transmission, delivered smooth and linear power. The QX80's towing capacity was an impressive 8,500 pounds. The SUV's Hydraulic Body Motion Control system helped manage body lean during cornering, providing a stable ride. The QX80's off-road capabilities were enhanced by its 9.2-inch ground clearance and available 4WD system, making it more capable than most owners would likely need.

The 2022 Lexus GX offered an elevated driving position with a 10-way power-adjustable seat, providing good visibility. Its tall, narrow design made it easy to maneuver, though the steering required extra effort. The interior featured comfortable seats and physical controls, though some switchgear was outdated. The GX's third-row seat was cramped and difficult to access, and the side-opening tailgate made loading cargo challenging. Cargo space was limited, with only 11.6 cubic feet behind the third row and 64.7 cubic feet with all seats folded.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 required a climb to enter, but once inside, it offered a spacious and airy cabin. The SUV could seat up to eight passengers, though the third row was cramped. The power-operated liftgate and third-row seats were slow to operate. Cargo space was more generous than the GX, with 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row and 95.1 cubic feet with all seats folded. The QX80's interior featured premium touches like illuminated kick plates and welcome lighting.

The 2022 Lexus GX featured a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. The system was easy to use, though the stereo controls were awkwardly placed. The GX also offered a CD player, a Lexus app, and a WiFi hotspot. The voice recognition technology was quick and accurate, and the dual-screen view was a useful feature. Standard safety technology included Intuitive Parking Assist, with optional surround-view and terrain-view cameras.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 came with a 12.3-inch Infiniti InTouch display, offering Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. The system included navigation, voice recognition, and connected services. A Bose 13-speaker sound system was standard, with a 17-speaker system available on higher trims. The QX80 also featured a wireless smartphone charger and a dual-screen rear entertainment system. However, it lacked Infiniti's ProPilot Assist, which was available on less expensive models.

The 2022 Lexus GX included the Lexus Safety System+, featuring adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard. However, the GX lacked some advanced safety technologies found in competitors, such as lane-keeping assist and semi-autonomous driving systems.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including forward automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Additional features included driver attention alert and front knee airbags. The QX80 received a three-star rollover resistance rating from NHTSA, with the structurally similar 2021 model earning four stars for overall crash protection.