2021 Audi Q3 vs 2022 INFINITI QX80

The 2021 Audi Q3 showcased a design that embraced the era of "postmodern automotive styling." Its massive corporate grille complemented the stout, chunky styling, suggesting utility and dynamic handling, though it primarily delivered on the latter. Inside, the cabin echoed a mechanical, modern aesthetic, with a dash design that framed the center touchscreen, highlighting one of the Q3’s standout features. While initially a standout design, the Q3's interior began to feel less unique as Volkswagen's designs caught up, though it remained modern and refined.

In contrast, the 2022 INFINITI QX80 shared a platform with the Nissan Armada, yet distinguished itself with a unique front-end styling featuring the Infiniti grille. The QX80's LED lighting and tasteful chrome use added an upscale look, complemented by stylish 22-inch dark chrome alloy wheels. Inside, the QX80's cabin featured upscale materials like quilted semi-aniline leather seats and wood trim, though its style was becoming outdated. Despite this, the cabin remained attractive and comfortable, though it fell short of the high bar set by competitors in the premium full-size SUV market.

The 2021 Audi Q3 was equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Quattro AWD. The S-Line trim offered a more powerful version with 228 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. This engine provided lively performance, especially in Sport mode, enhancing throttle response and transmission mapping. The Q3's handling was nimble and engaging, offering a comfortable ride without compromising on dynamic enjoyment.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 boasted a robust 400-horsepower, 5.6-liter V8 engine with 413 lb-ft of torque. This engine delivered strong performance and an appealing exhaust note, though it was thirsty for fuel. Paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission, the QX80 offered smooth power delivery and quick passing capabilities. Its off-road capability was notable, with a 4WD option and a computer-controlled transfer case. The QX80 managed body lean well, thanks to the Hydraulic Body Motion Control system, though it reminded drivers of its size during sharp turns.

The 2021 Audi Q3 offered 48 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats folded and 23.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats. While the cargo space was subpar for its class, the Q3 compensated with ample passenger space, providing comfortable seating for up to five, with impressive headroom and legroom.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 required a climb to enter due to its tall ride height. Inside, it offered a spacious cabin with good front-seat head- and legroom. The QX80 could seat up to eight with an optional second-row bench, though the third row was cramped. Cargo space was 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 95.1 cubic feet with all seats folded. The power-operated liftgate and third-row seats were slow, but the cabin featured premium touches like illuminated kick plates.

The 2021 Audi Q3 came standard with an 8.8-inch touchscreen running Audi’s MMI system, featuring Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay. An upgraded 10.1-inch touchscreen with navigation was available, along with features like wireless charging and a Bang & Olufsen audio system. The Audi Virtual Cockpit offered a customizable digital display.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 featured a new 12.3-inch Infiniti InTouch display with Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. A Bose 13-speaker system was standard, with a 17-speaker system on the Sensory trim. The QX80 included a wireless charger and a dual-screen rear entertainment system, though it lacked Infiniti's ProPilot Assist due to its older architecture.

The 2021 Audi Q3 included standard safety features like Audi Pre Sense, forward-collision warning, and lane-departure warning. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and a 360-degree camera system.

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