Infiniti has given its big flagship SUV, the QX80, yet another update in this current generation. That’s the second one so far over eight model years if you’re keeping track. This SUV remains a value option among big luxury SUVs, and thanks to these updates, it’s a little easier now on the eyes.
Related: 2018 Infiniti QX80 Vs. 2018 Nissan Armada: Is the Luxury Badge Worth It?
About that styling: A lot of important small changes are present. Infiniti says everything ahead of the A-pillars is new, with styling cues from the Monograph concept SUV that appeared at the New York International Auto Show in 2017. The headlights sit up higher and stretch out over the front fenders more; the grille doesn’t fan out as much as it used to at the top and the bottom; overall, it doesn’t look like it’s melting quite as much, an issue we’ve had with previous model years of the QX80. The front bumper still has a lot going on with it, but it looks less busy than before. Around back, the LED taillights are thinner and there’s some chrome that goes across the entire liftgate. Overall, it’s a more cohesive design.
Less has changed on the inside — and this is where the QX80 is starting to show some of the current generation’s age. Materials are lush as you’d expect in this class, but the center controls and the multimedia system harken back to an earlier era of Infiniti. There’s an 8-inch screen, but the graphics are merely so-so and it doesn’t respond very fast to simple things like turning the tuning knob. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both unavailable in the QX80.
For the rest of my thoughts on the 2018 Infiniti QX80, watch the video above.
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