Infiniti’s QX80 Second-Row Console Conundrum

CARS.COM — Kids are no different than any other form of matter; they take the path of least resistance in their journey from one point to another. You need look no further than second-row center consoles in the drop-off lane to see this evidence in action, particularly in the 2017 Infiniti QX80.

Related: 2017 Infiniti QX80: Car Seat Check

The QX80 SUV has a standard second-row configuration of two outboard captain’s chairs, along with a fantastic center console that sits between them. This Infiniti’s center console contains two large storage bins and a set of cupholders. The top of the console is in this model is cushioned and quilted to match the upholstery. It’s a thing of beauty, storing headsets and remotes for the entertainment system as well as other second-row detritus that tends to collect back there.

While it’s useful, there’s a catch: It lives in the space between the captain’s chairs, blocking passage to the third row. To alleviate the potential abuse of the beautiful, quilted center console when the kids stampede over it, you could have them instead climb over the second-row chairs. The backs of the chairs easily fold down via a button or lever.

It seems so simple on paper. And yet, the constant reminding and chiding a parent must employ to get the kids to develop this habit is less than ideal. All they have to do is wait for the kids in the second-row seats to get out, release the lever to fold the seats, climb over the seats and then hop out.

After testing the luxury QX80 SUV, I will tell you that most kids just trod over that middle console, using the space between the captain’s chairs as a modified aisle. And really, it’s hard to argue about it in the time crunch of the drop-off lane when they need to hustle out of the vehicle so waiting cars can have their turn.

I love that console, and you will too. Just remember that parents will likely have to work some extra discipline into the drop-off/pickup routine in order to preserve it.