2024 Mazda CX-5 vs 2025 INFINITI QX80

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 maintained its appealing design, which had aged gracefully since its second-generation debut in 2017. The new Carbon Turbo trim added a fresh touch with Zircon Sand paint and exclusive Terracotta leather seats, enhancing its modern look. Mazda's updates included improved fuel economy for the base engine, wireless charging, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in several trims. The CX-5 lineup offered a range of trims with two engine options, providing a balance of style and performance at a competitive price.

In contrast, the 2025 INFINITI QX80 underwent its first redesign since 2017, growing slightly in size and retaining its body-on-frame architecture. The new frame improved stiffness, while the updated styling featured a prominent grille and stacked-headlight setup, giving it a distinctive look. The QX80's interior received a high-tech makeover with a large horizontal display and ambient lighting, although some materials felt less premium. The QX80 offered various trims with different wheel sizes and luxurious interior options, catering to those seeking a spacious and upscale SUV.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo delivered 256 hp with premium gas and 227 hp with regular gas, offering a rewarding driving experience when accelerating steadily. Despite its power, the fuel economy was unimpressive at 24 mpg combined. The CX-5's suspension and handling improvements provided a smooth and responsive ride, with excellent visibility and confidence-inspiring maneuverability. It offered a quiet highway experience and lively handling in the city, with off-road capabilities thanks to its ground clearance.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 featured a new twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 450 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque, surpassing the previous V8. The nine-speed automatic transmission enhanced acceleration, although the active sound enhancement added an artificial noise. The QX80's air suspension and adaptive damping aimed to provide a comfortable ride, with adjustable ride height for off-road and aerodynamic efficiency. Despite its size, the QX80's handling was average, typical for large body-on-frame SUVs.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 offered comfortable heated front seats with power adjustments and quality materials, including leather in most trims. While interior space was snug for four adults, the rear seats provided good support and amenities. The cabin's design and quality rivaled luxury vehicles, though cargo space was limited to 30 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 59.3 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80's redesign increased cargo space significantly, offering 22 cubic feet with all seats up and 101 cubic feet with seats folded. The power liftgate and power-folding seats made reconfiguring easy, though second-row movement was limited with taller drivers. Passenger space was generous, with available heated, ventilated, and massaging seats. The QX80 boasted an 8,500-pound towing capacity, surpassing most luxury SUVs.

Mazda's approach to infotainment in the 2024 CX-5 focused on traditional controls, with a 10.25-inch display offering limited touchscreen functionality. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, and the Mazda Connect system was navigated via a console knob. The CX-5 included Mazda Connected Services for remote features and a premium Bose sound system in higher trims.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 featured dual 14.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment, with a smaller touchscreen for climate controls. Google built-in apps provided navigation and voice recognition, while wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto remained available. The QX80's Klipsch sound systems varied by trim, with advanced audio tech in higher models. A 360-degree camera system and other advanced features enhanced the driving experience.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 came equipped with essential ADAS features, including adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims offered additional safety technologies like adaptive headlights and a driver monitoring system. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from NHTSA, though it didn't earn the IIHS Top Safety Pick designation for 2024.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 included standard safety features such as forward collision warning and blind-spot monitoring. ProPilot Assist offered advanced highway-driving assistance, with hands-free driving available on higher trims. While crash-test ratings were unavailable, the QX80's safety features aimed to provide a secure driving experience.