Infiniti holds QX80 pricing steady

INFINITI Australia has held pricing of its refreshed QX80 upper-large SUV at the same level as the outgoing version, while offering a new look, updated interior and new features.

The hulking Nissan Patrol-based SUV retains its $110,900, excluding on-road costs, pricetag, ensuring it remains the most affordable offering in the premium upper-large SUV segment, undercutting the Mercedes-Benz GLS350d ($117,661), Range Rover Vogue TDV6 ($190,000) and Lexus LX570 ($143,160).

Infiniti ripped the covers off the facelifted QX80 at last year’s Dubai motor show, revealing a redesigned version of the model that went on sale in Australia in mid-2015, five years after it was launched in other international markets.

As previously reported, the new QX80 has a longer and higher bonnet, a larger grille, new headlights and tail-lights, bringing it more into line with other current and upcoming Infiniti models, including the next QX50, and marking a move away from the polarising look of the outgoing version.

Under the massive bonnet is an unchanged version of the 298kW/560Nm 5.6-litre V8 petrol engine, matched with a seven-speed automatic transmission with Adaptive Shift Control, driving all four wheels. Fuel usage on the outgoing model was 14.8 litre per 100km on the combined cycle. It is unclear if this has changed.

The eight-seat QX80 offers a 3500kg towing capacity, new 18-spoke 22-inch forged aluminium-alloy wheels, Bluetooth connectivity, the Infiniti controller for navigation, audio and climate control, as well as safety gear including blind-spot monitoring, park assist, autonomous emergency braking and lane departure warning.

It also has an Intelligent Rear View Mirror that becomes a monitor thanks to a camera mounted at the top of the rear windscreen.

The QX80 goes on sale this month and will be offered in seven exterior colours, including Champagne Quartz, Mineral Black and Moonstone White, while the interior trim is coloured Espresso Burl with semi-aniline quilted leather graphite-coloured upholstery.

Infiniti product manager Edward Trinh said the changes to the QX80 would ensure it appeals to more buyers.

“This a great update for Infiniti QX80, one that we think will attract new buyers to QX80 and to the brand,” he said.

“The Infiniti QX80 offers a perfect blend of power, performance, luxury and safety – all key Infiniti brand attributes.

“Whether it’s the commanding exterior design, luxurious interior, or the abundance of advanced safety technologies, the Infiniti QX80 is the ideal vehicle for active families who want a premium drive experience every time they open the door.”The QX80 has been a slow seller since its 2015 launch, finding just 37 homes that year, before climbing to 61 in 2016 and 83 last year.

It trails its direct rivals the Mercedes-Benz GLS and the Lexus LX570, which recorded sales of 926 and 324 respectively last year.