2025 Ford Explorer vs 2025 INFINITI QX80

The 2025 Ford Explorer continued its evolution with a refreshed design that enhanced its rugged appeal. The front end was restyled to give it a wider and more assertive look, while new LED taillights and a trim strip added sophistication to the rear. Inside, the Explorer saw significant improvements in materials and design, making it more competitive in its segment. Ford streamlined the trim levels to four, offering a range from the base Active to the performance-oriented ST, with prices starting at $39,755.

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, and the styling updates, particularly at the front, gave it a more expressive look. The grille expanded onto the hood, and a stacked-headlight setup added to its imposing presence. The interior received a high-tech makeover with a large horizontal display and ambient lighting, though some materials felt less premium. The QX80 offered four trims, with the top Autograph trim featuring unique 22-inch wheels.

The 2025 Ford Explorer offered two EcoBoost engines: a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 producing 400 horsepower. Both engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, with optional four-wheel drive. The Explorer's driving modes catered to various conditions, and the ST-Line trim, with its larger wheels and performance brakes, provided a delightful driving experience. The Explorer's turbo four delivered quick acceleration, while the V6 offered a more pleasant sound and fast acceleration.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 featured a new twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, replacing the previous V8. This engine produced 450 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The QX80 felt more energetic than its predecessor, though the active sound enhancement added an artificial noise. The air suspension with adaptive damping provided a compliant ride, and the off-road setting increased ground clearance. Despite its size, the QX80's handling was average, typical for large body-on-frame SUVs.

The 2025 Ford Explorer seated six in its standard configuration, with an option for a seven-passenger setup. The ST-Line trim featured comfortable front seats with heating and massage functions, while the second-row captain's chairs offered similar comfort. The third row was less accommodating for adults. Cargo space was competitive, with 16.3 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 85.8 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 increased its 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 the interior easy. Passenger space was generous, with increased legroom in the first and third rows. The QX80 also boasted a maximum towing capacity of 8,500 pounds, surpassing most competitors.

The 2025 Ford Explorer introduced the Ford Digital Experience with a 13.2-inch touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital instrumentation. It included Google Built-in, Amazon Alexa, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was user-friendly, though the ST-Line's 10-speaker B&O sound system was underwhelming compared to higher trims.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 featured dual 14.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment, with a smaller 9-inch touchscreen for additional controls. Google built-in apps provided navigation and voice recognition, while wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were supported. The Klipsch sound systems varied by trim, with the top models offering a 24-speaker setup. The QX80 also included a 360-degree camera system with multiple viewing angles.

The 2025 Ford Explorer came with Ford CoPilot 360+, offering a suite of advanced driving assistance systems. The ST-Line and higher trims included BlueCruise, a hands-free highway driving system. While NHTSA ratings were incomplete, the Explorer earned five-star side-impact and four-star rollover resistance ratings.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 included standard safety features like forward collision warning and blind-spot monitoring. It offered ProPilot Assist for highway driving assistance, with the advanced version allowing hands-free driving. Crash-test ratings were unavailable at the time of publication.