2026 BMW X5 vs 2025 INFINITI QX80

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 underwent its first redesign since 2017, growing slightly in length and width while maintaining its height. It retained its body-on-frame architecture, but with a new frame that significantly improved torsional and lateral stiffness. The QX80's styling became more expressive, particularly at the front, with a larger grille and a distinctive stacked-headlight setup. The rear end maintained its general shape but featured full-width taillights with over 300 LEDs. The QX80 was offered in four trim levels, with varying wheel sizes and designs. The interior received a high-tech makeover with a large horizontal display and ambient lighting, although some shiny black plastic trim detracted from the premium feel. Upholstery options ranged from leatherette to semi-aniline leather, depending on the trim level.

The 2026 BMW X5 lineup included both rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models, with prices ranging from $69,750 to $132,450. The X5 M60i test vehicle featured a twin-turbocharged V8 engine, luxurious Merino leather upholstery, and a host of optional packages. The design retained elements from the original X5, with wide kidney grilles and sculpted bodywork. Inside, the X5 aimed for simplicity with a panoramic curved display and minimized controls, enhanced by metallic accents and carbon fiber inlays. The quality of materials and construction was evident, with glass controls and sophisticated display graphics. At night, ambient lighting and an illuminated sunroof added to the SUV's special feel.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a new twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 450 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, replacing the previous 5.6-liter V8. It featured a nine-speed automatic transmission, with standard rear-wheel drive and optional four-wheel drive. The new engine and transmission provided a more energetic driving experience, although the active sound enhancement added an artificial noise during acceleration. The QX80 offered air suspension and adaptive damping on higher trims, allowing for adjustable ride height and improved aerodynamics. Despite its size and body-on-frame construction, the QX80's handling was average for its class.

The 2026 BMW X5 M60i was equipped with a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, delivering 532 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds, with standard xDrive all-wheel drive and performance tires ensuring stability. The X5 M60i's fuel efficiency varied, with an EPA rating of 19 mpg. The SUV's dynamic M Adaptive suspension attempted to counteract its weight and high center of gravity, while M Sport brakes and performance tires provided confidence. The X5 M60i was not designed for off-roading but offered impressive towing capacity.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80's redesign increased cargo space by 6%, 17%, and 28% behind the first, second, and third rows, respectively. It offered 22 cubic feet with all seats in place, 59 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 101 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. The QX80 featured a power liftgate and power-folding seats, with controls conveniently located. Passenger space was generous, with increased legroom in the first and third rows. Heated, ventilated, and massaging seats were available, and the QX80 had a maximum towing capacity of 8,500 pounds.

The 2026 BMW X5 accommodated five passengers in two rows, with comfortable front seats offering various adjustments. The test vehicle featured four-zone automatic climate control, although it lost effectiveness at traffic lights due to the engine start/stop system. Rear-seat comfort was acceptable, with ample headroom but limited leg support for tall adults. The X5 offered hidden storage compartments and a split-opening power liftgate. Cargo space measured 33.9 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 72.3 cubic feet with the seat folded.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 featured dual 14.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment, with a smaller 9-inch touchscreen for additional controls. It was the first Infiniti model with Google built-in apps, including Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Google Play Store. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were supported. The QX80 offered a Klipsch sound system, with higher trims featuring a 24-speaker version. A 360-degree camera system, digital rearview camera, dash cam, and in-car camera were available.

The 2026 BMW X5's BMW Curved Display included a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14.9-inch touchscreen. The iDrive 8.5 infotainment system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, and connected services. A digital assistant was available, although it had compatibility issues with Apple CarPlay. The Bowers & Wilkins audio system provided exceptional sound quality. The infotainment screen had numerous menus, best explored when stationary.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80's crash-test ratings were unavailable at the time of publication. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, and a trailer blind-spot warning system. The QX80 offered ProPilot Assist highway-driving assistance, with adaptive cruise control and automated lane centering.

The 2026 BMW X5 came standard with high-beam assist, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, active blind-spot monitors, rear cross-traffic alert, and more. The optional Driving Assistance Professional Package included adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assist, and hands-free driving. The X5 received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.