2024 Mazda CX-90 vs 2025 INFINITI QX80

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 presented a bold step for Mazda, moving closer to luxury brands with its elegant design and high-quality materials. It borrowed the sleek design language from its smaller siblings, the CX-30 and CX-5, and expanded it into a larger, more imposing SUV. The CX-90's exterior featured a prominent grille, wide front end, and large wheels, ranging from 19 to 21 inches, which commanded attention. Inside, the top-tier models boasted interiors that rivaled luxury competitors, with brown suede upholstery, wood inlays, and matte black plastic, creating a sophisticated atmosphere.

In contrast, the 2025 INFINITI QX80 underwent its first redesign since 2017, growing slightly in size and retaining its body-on-frame architecture. The QX80's styling updates were most noticeable at the front, with a larger grille and a distinctive stacked-headlight setup. The rear maintained its general shape but introduced full-width LED taillights. The interior received a high-tech makeover with a large horizontal display and ambient lighting, although shiny black plastic trim detracted from the premium feel. The QX80 offered various trim levels, with the top Autograph trim featuring unique 22-inch wheels and luxurious leather upholstery.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 introduced two new powertrains, including a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine. The base turbo I6 delivered 280 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, while the Turbo S variant increased output to 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel. All models featured all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The CX-90 excelled in handling, with a double-wishbone front suspension and agile cornering capabilities, reminiscent of Mazda's sporty heritage.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 switched to a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6, producing 450 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, replacing the previous V8. A nine-speed automatic transmission improved acceleration, although the active sound enhancement added an artificial noise to the cabin. The QX80 offered air suspension with adaptive damping, providing a compliant ride and adjustable ride height. Despite its size, the QX80's handling was average for a large SUV, with the air suspension struggling to fully counteract its weight.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 offered various seating configurations, accommodating up to eight passengers. The Turbo S models featured a two-seat third row, providing slightly more cargo space. Total cargo capacity reached 75.2 cubic feet with the third row folded. While the CX-90 improved on the CX-9's space, it still lagged behind competitors like the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander in capacity. Clever storage solutions and comfortable seating added to its appeal.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 increased cargo space significantly, offering 101 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. Power-folding seats and a power liftgate made reconfiguring the interior easy. Passenger space was generous, with increased legroom in the first and third rows. The QX80 also boasted a high towing capacity of 8,500 pounds, surpassing most full-size luxury SUVs.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 focused on reducing distractions with its Mazda Connect infotainment system, using a rotary control knob instead of a touchscreen. While the intention was to enhance safety, the setup proved frustrating for some users. However, personalization software and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with touchscreen controls, offered some relief.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 featured dual 14.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment, with a smaller touchscreen for climate controls. Google built-in apps provided navigation and voice recognition, while wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto remained available. The QX80's Klipsch sound systems and advanced camera views added to its tech appeal, though the interface felt reminiscent of Nissan's non-luxury models.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 came standard with i-Activsense, a suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) including blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. Additional features like lane-keeping assist and rear cross-traffic alert enhanced safety, although crash-test ratings were not yet available.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 offered standard safety features such as forward collision warning and blind-spot monitoring. ProPilot Assist, available on higher trims, provided highway-driving assistance with adaptive cruise control and lane centering. While crash-test ratings were pending, the QX80's safety tech was comprehensive.