The flagship three-row SUV Infiniti in the Sport version looks controversial on paper, but in reality, it can pleasantly surprise. The QX80 still relies on design, comfort, and an atmosphere of luxury, but in a segment where Porsche, BMW, and Land Rover compete, this is no longer enough.
The Sport trim appeared as a logical continuation of the course that Infiniti had previously outlined: to make the QX80 more modern and visually appealing. At the same time, "sport" here is more of an image element. Technically, the Sport version is almost no different from other modifications, with the exception of the base one, which lacks air suspension. There was no increase in power, no different chassis settings, and no weight reduction, despite the impressive price tag, which exceeds $100,000.
Under the hood is a 3.5-liter V6 with twin turbochargers, developing 450 hp and 699 Nm. It is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. For a huge SUV weighing almost 2.8 tons, the dynamics are decent, but not outstanding by class standards. Acceleration, traction on the highway, and confident overtaking do not raise questions, but competitors offer either more emotion or better efficiency.
Externally, the QX80 Sport really looks impressive. Updated bumpers, 22-inch wheels, darkened elements, mirrors, and roof rails emphasize the status and make the car noticeable in the traffic. The two-tone body color enhances the effect, and the palette of available shades allows you to choose an option for every taste - from strict to more expressive.
The interior is one of the strongest arguments for the Sport version. The interior is decorated in dark, rich tones with Dusk Blue upholstery, diamond-shaped seat perforation, a graphite ceiling, and open-pore wood. All this creates a feeling of expensive and well-thought-out space. In terms of the quality of perception, this is perhaps one of the best Infiniti interiors in recent years, although glossy black plastic and controversial touch climate control still spoil the impression.
There is a lot of space inside. The second and third rows offer heated seats, outlets, and separate ventilation deflectors, and second-row passengers can independently adjust the climate. Getting into the third row is convenient, and the trunk with three rows of seats accommodates about 580 liters. Electric drives make it easy to transform the cabin both from the trunk and from the driver's seat.
From a technological point of view, the QX80 is both pleasing and disappointing. Massage chairs work great, the air suspension effectively adapts to driving conditions, and the multimedia system is fast and logical. Special mention should be made of the Klipsch audio system with 24 speakers - it sounds really premium and offers rare practical solutions, such as a separate speaker in the driver's headrest for telephone calls.
But the lack of entertainment screens for rear passengers in a 2026 car in the premium segment looks strange. Even more questions are raised by the operation of driver assistance systems. The full-fledged ProPilot Assist 2.1 is only available in the most expensive Autograph version, while the remaining configurations, including Sport, receive a simplified and noticeably less stable system that can be annoying in real operation.
On the road, the QX80 Sport was a pleasant surprise. Despite the high seating position, the car became noticeably more assembled and stable than previously tested versions. Body roll appears only during active driving, the steering has become sharper, and the brakes confidently cope with the weight of the SUV. The air suspension makes the ride soft in the city and denser on the highway, which has a positive effect on comfort.
Nevertheless, in a direct comparison with key rivals, the QX80 is inferior. It is not the fastest, not the most economical, not the most technologically advanced, and not the most luxurious in detail. It is a solid, comfortable, and spectacular SUV that is pleasant to use every day, but which rarely becomes the best choice for specific parameters.
The Infiniti QX80 Sport is suitable for those who are looking for a large, status, and comfortable SUV with a bright appearance and excellent sound, without chasing records and advanced solutions. Those who expect the maximum from the flagship - whether it be dynamics, technology, or trim - should take a closer look at the offers from BMW, Porsche, Jeep, or Land Rover.
