2024 BMW X5 vs 2025 INFINITI QX80

The 2024 BMW X5, last redesigned in 2019, maintained a timeless style, though the M Sport treatment was less favored, giving it a station wagon-like appearance. The test vehicle featured optional 21-inch “741M” wheels with staggered-width summer tires, which were considered a worthy upgrade despite potential replacement costs. The X5 offered various powertrains, including a turbocharged inline six-cylinder, a turbo-six PHEV, and a turbocharged V8, with options for Sport and M Sport trims. The xDrive50e M Sport model tested came with Brooklyn Grey paint and a full suite of equipment packages, priced at $88,075. Updates for 2024 included a BMW Curved Display and modernized interior controls, while retaining high-quality materials.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 underwent its first redesign since 2017, growing slightly in size and retaining its body-on-frame architecture with improved stiffness. The QX80 featured more expressive styling, particularly at the front, with a large grille and stacked-headlight setup. The rear end maintained its shape but added full-width LED taillights. Offered in Pure, Luxe, Sensory, and Autobiography trims, the QX80 included standard roof rails and a panoramic moonroof. The interior received a tech upgrade with a large horizontal display and 64-color ambient lighting, though shiny black plastic trim was prevalent. Upholstery options ranged from leatherette to semi-aniline leather, depending on the trim.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced new mild-hybrid engines and enhanced the xDrive50e PHEV’s electric range and power. The PHEV featured a more powerful electric motor and a 19.2 kWh battery, offering 38 miles of electric-only driving and 22 mpg in hybrid mode. It produced 483 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, accelerating to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. The PHEV excelled in efficiency, achieving 38.8 mpg during testing. Equipped with adaptive damping air suspension, it handled well despite its weight, offering excellent visibility and steering. The X5 was praised for its performance on challenging roads, with strong brakes and impressive handling.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 switched to a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6, producing 450 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The new engine provided more energetic acceleration compared to the previous V8. The QX80 featured active noise cancellation and sound enhancement, though the latter was less appealing. Higher trims included air suspension with adaptive damping, offering adjustable ride height. Despite efforts to counteract its weight and body-on-frame construction, the QX80’s ride quality was average. Handling was typical for large SUVs, with the air suspension unable to fully smooth out bumps.

The 2024 BMW X5 offered seating for five and a cargo area expandable from 33.1 to 71.2 cubic feet. The split liftgate design provided seating but required stretching to access deep cargo. Standard Sensafin artificial leather and optional sport seats with climate comfort features enhanced the interior. The panoramic sunroof and sunshades added comfort, though a third-row seat was no longer available.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 increased cargo space by up to 28%, offering 22 cubic feet with all seats up and 101 cubic feet with seats folded. Power liftgate and folding seats facilitated reconfiguration. Passenger space was generous, with increased legroom and available heated, ventilated, and massaging seats. The QX80 boasted an 8,500-pound towing capacity, surpassing most competitors.

The 2024 BMW X5 featured a BMW Curved Display with a 12.3-inch digital panel and a 14.9-inch touchscreen. It ran on BMW Operating System 8.5, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Harman Kardon sound system was praised, but the Intelligent Personal Assistant struggled with voice recognition, affecting navigation and media requests. The head-up display and augmented video navigation were highlights, though reliant on accurate voice commands.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 introduced dual 14.3-inch screens for instruments and infotainment, with a 9-inch touchscreen for additional controls. Google built-in apps provided navigation and voice recognition, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support. The infotainment system’s graphics were less impressive, and the lower touchscreen required firm presses. Klipsch sound systems varied by trim, with advanced audio features in higher trims. The QX80 offered a comprehensive camera system with multiple views and a digital rearview camera.

The 2024 BMW X5 added Highway Assistant for hands-free driving, effective in certain conditions but occasionally braking unexpectedly. Adaptive cruise control and lane-centering worked well, though the system misinterpreted obstacles at times. The X5 received high IIHS ratings but missed an award due to headlight ratings, and earned a four-star NHTSA rating.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80’s crash-test ratings were unavailable. Standard safety features included collision warnings, automatic braking, and blind-spot monitoring. ProPilot Assist offered adaptive cruise control and lane centering, with hands-free driving on higher trims. The system required driver-initiated lane changes, avoiding unpredictable behavior.