INFINITI QX80 vs Lexus TX

The 2026 INFINITI QX80 presented a bold and commanding presence with its big, blocky design typical of body-on-frame SUVs. It featured a tall and upright stance, high shoulder lines, and a simple two-box profile complemented by a standard rear spoiler and large 20- or 22-inch wheels. The front showcased a striking black two-part grille with a waterfall upper portion inspired by a bamboo forest, flanked by LED headlights and piano-key daytime running lights. At the rear, a taillight light bar spanned the width, echoing the piano key design above the wide Infiniti lettering. The QX80 Sport trim added a wider mesh pattern for its frameless grille, dark matte chrome exterior trim, and gloss-black roof rails, mirror caps, emblems, and wheels. Inside, the QX80 exuded modern luxury with four available screens, synthetic or real leather options, and high-quality materials like aluminum and open-pore wood trim. The Sport models featured a Dusk Blue interior theme with a darkened color palette.

The 2026 Lexus TX offered a variety of trim levels based on the powertrain, including the TX 350, 500h hybrid, and 550h+ plug-in hybrid. The 550h+ stood out with a standard panoramic glass roof and the newly available Matador Red Mica paint. Most models came with 20-inch wheels, while the 550h+ boasted 22-inch wheels. The large grille retained some of the older “spindle grille” shape, complemented by sharp bi-LED headlights and rear LED lighting spanning the vehicle's width. Inside, the TX provided two interior color options, with the PHEV adding a dark brown called Peppercorn. Ambient lighting and suede trim added warmth, but overall material quality fell short of luxury standards. Redesigned door handles offered a unique touch, though some might have preferred more attention to cabin detail.

The 2026 INFINITI QX80 transitioned from a 5.6-liter V8 to a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6, boosting power to 450 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, it offered rear-wheel drive as standard, with full-time four-wheel drive optional on base trims and standard on top trims. The 4WD system, however, lost low-range gearing, focusing on Auto and 4H modes. Despite the absence of a V8's baritone, the V6 delivered immediate power, achieving 0-60 mph in 6.1 seconds. The body-on-frame platform boasted 25% more torsional rigidity and 57% more lateral stiffness, maintaining an 8,500-pound towing capacity. The suspension system included front and rear double-wishbone suspension with coil springs, air springs, and adaptive dampers on higher trims. The QX80's size and mass presented challenges in maneuverability, with notable body lean and slow, heavy steering, though ride quality remained comfortable.

The 2026 Lexus TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid generated 404 horsepower from its 3.5-liter V6 and hybrid system. It featured a seven-kilowatt charger, achieving a full battery in under three hours. The TX offered multiple drive options, including electric-only, standard hybrid, and gas-only modes, with Normal, Eco, Sport, or Custom drive modes. Sport mode enhanced throttle sensitivity, though it wasn't overly aggressive. The 550h+ provided a quiet, smooth ride, with seamless transitions between gas and electric power. The AWD system distributed power variably, with a Trail Mode for slippery surfaces. The suspension absorbed bumps effectively, making it ideal for long road trips.

The 2026 INFINITI QX80 was a spacious SUV, measuring 211.2 inches long on a 121-inch wheelbase, accommodating up to seven passengers. Standard features included synthetic leather, eight-way power-adjustable seats, and front-seat heating. Higher trims offered leather upholstery, ventilation, and massage functions. The second-row captain’s chairs had power adjustments, with ventilation and massage options on top trims. The third-row bench reclined, providing ample space for adults or children. Power-folding third-row seats were standard, with controls accessible via touchscreen or rear cargo area. Cargo space measured 22 cubic feet behind the third row, 59 cubic feet behind the second row, and 101 cubic feet behind the first row.

The 2026 Lexus TX 550h+ offered standard luxury features like multi-zone climate control, heated and cooled front seats, and heated second-row seats. The third row was spacious, with a recline function and USB-C ports. A one-touch button facilitated third-row access, though folding the second row flat was more complex. The front seats were roomy but lacked thigh support. Climate controls were primarily on-screen, with physical dials for temperature. Cargo space was generous, with 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row, 57.4 cubic feet with the third row flat, and 97 cubic feet with the second row folded. All TX models could tow up to 5,000 pounds.

The 2026 INFINITI QX80 was equipped with a pair of 14.3-inch screens for the digital instrument cluster and infotainment, with another touchscreen for climate and drive settings. The infotainment system featured Google built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. A 5G connection provided a Wi-Fi hotspot and remote services. The QX80 included a 14-speaker Klipsch audio system, with a 24-speaker system on higher trims. Additional tech features included a head-up display, dashcam, in-car camera, and a surround-view camera system with nine views.

The 2026 Lexus TX featured a 14-inch touchscreen, though some functions lacked polish. Steering wheel buttons controlled various functions but were confusing to use. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, though connectivity issues occurred. Subscription services included in-dash navigation and a voice assistant. The backup camera offered a bird’s-eye view, and the Advanced Park system handled parking duties. The TX had seven USB ports and wireless charging, with a 120-volt outlet in the second row.

The 2026 INFINITI QX80 came standard with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, ProPilot Assist 1.1, and more. ProPilot Assist 2.1 offered hands-free driving on certain highways. The QX80 earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation, though NHTSA ratings were unavailable.

The 2026 Lexus TX included Safety System+ 3.0, featuring forward collision warning, Lane Tracing Assist, and more. Adaptive cruise control worked well, though setup was confusing. NHTSA ratings were unavailable for the 550h+, but other TX models received five stars. IIHS ratings varied, with some areas receiving mid scores.