2021 INFINITI QX80 vs 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 showcased a blend of Nissan Armada and Infiniti design elements, maintaining a body-on-frame construction that set it apart from many modern SUVs. Its exterior featured a distinctive roofline and rear window curve, with Infiniti’s signature grille and headlight design giving it an assertive yet refined appearance. The interior, while luxurious with wood trim and leather upholstery, closely resembled the Armada, lacking the exclusivity some luxury buyers might seek.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid presented a sharp, streamlined profile with a sporty, scowling face. Despite its aggressive F Sport styling, the NX Hybrid retained a familiar look due to minimal design changes over the years. Inside, the NX Hybrid offered a radical design with a stepped center console and sporty dashboard, though material quality felt more mainstream than luxury. The Black Line package added unique touches like aluminum pedals and blue contrast stitching, enhancing its sporty appeal.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a 5.6-liter V8 engine producing 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. While its body-on-frame construction suggested a truck-like ride, the QX80’s independent suspension and Hydraulic Body Motion Control provided a comfortable experience. Despite some body roll in corners, the QX80 excelled in towing, with a capacity of 8,500 pounds, and offered decent off-road capabilities.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, delivering a total of 194 horsepower. It prioritized fuel efficiency over performance, with a 0-60 mph time of 9.1 seconds. The sport-tuned suspension improved handling, but the drivetrain struggled with power delivery. The NX Hybrid’s steering lacked feedback, and drive modes offered minimal impact on performance, emphasizing its focus on efficiency rather than excitement.

The INFINITI QX80 offered a spacious three-row configuration, accommodating up to eight passengers. While passenger space was competitive, cargo capacity lagged behind rivals like the Cadillac Escalade. The interior featured power-adjustable front seats and a versatile center console, though storage space was limited. The power liftgate and folding third row added convenience for cargo management.

The Lexus NX Hybrid, with its sloping roofline, provided limited headroom and rear legroom, making the rear seats feel cramped. The front seats, however, offered excellent support and adjustability. Cargo space was limited, with 16.8 cubic feet available with the rear seats up. The NX Hybrid’s design aimed for a sporty feel, with high-rising dashboard and door sides, though rear visibility was compromised.

The INFINITI QX80 came equipped with the InTouch dual-screen infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 13-speaker Bose audio system. Despite its features, the user interface was cumbersome, with small screens and complex controls. The Smart Rearview Mirror and Around View Monitor enhanced visibility and safety.

The Lexus NX Hybrid’s infotainment system was a weak point, relying on a difficult-to-use Remote Touch Interface touchpad. While it included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the system felt outdated. The base audio system lacked quality, though higher trims offered a Mark Levinson upgrade. Analog controls provided some relief from the challenging interface.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 received a four-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, with standard features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. However, it lacked IIHS testing.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid earned a “Top Safety Pick+” from IIHS and a five-star NHTSA rating. It included the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, offering comprehensive driver aids like forward-collision warning and adaptive cruise control, making it a strong contender in safety.