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Infiniti QX80
SUV · Gas · 6 versions · owner report
Ranked #3 of 10 luxury full-size SUVs on owner data, price and fuel economy
Every generation
Power
Combined, EPA 2027
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on model year and purchase context.
7 problems reported (3 very frequent, 2 recurrent, 2 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentCatalytic converter failure
Very expensive failure occurring frequently just outside of warranty, with repair costs cited from $1,700 to $2,600. Mentioned as a widespread issue across model years.
- Very frequentExtremely poor fuel economy
Real-world consumption reported as low as 11-12 MPG in mixed driving. Considered a defining characteristic of the V8 model.
- Very frequentDated/Unreliable Infotainment System
Systems described as ancient, laggy, prone to freezing, and featuring a confusing dual-screen setup (pre-2020). Newer 2025 models also reported with infotainment glitches like screens turning off.
+ 4 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentInterior Material Quality
Use of hard plastics, low-rent materials, and overall interior design criticized for feeling outdated and not befitting a luxury vehicle price tag.
- RecurrentTiming Chain & VVT System Issues
Timing chain problems noted as a known issue to check for. Variable Valve Timing (VVT) solenoids and related engine codes (P0011, P0021, etc.) cause rough starts and RPM limitations.
- IsolatedAir Suspension & Hydraulic Body Motion Control Costs
Concerns about high maintenance and replacement costs for the hydraulic suspension on higher trims, though specific failure rates are not detailed.
- IsolatedVarious Electronic Glitches
Includes issues with power-folding third-row seats, random warning alarms, and features within the companion mobile app not working (2025 model).
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" trim or model year. Feedback indicates the pre-2020 models with the dual-screen infotainment are particularly disliked, while the 2022-2024 models with the updated single free-standing touchscreen are seen as an improvement. There is no strong recommendation for a specific trim level from the provided discussions.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Lexus LX 570/LX 600, Toyota Land Cruiser, Lincoln Navigator, Jeep Grand Cherokee and Cadillac Escalade.
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on model year and purchase context. For the long-running generation produced from approximately 2014 through 2024, the consensus among owners is that it is a fundamentally solid, comfortable, and powerful full-size SUV that suffers from significant drawbacks in fuel economy, technology, and certain costly reliability issues. The 5.6L V8 engine (VK56VD) is very frequently praised for its power, smoothness, and general reliability. The vehicle is consistently described as comfortable for long drives, with a refined and smooth driving experience, ample space, and a feeling of safety. However, very frequent and severe criticism is directed at abysmal fuel economy, with reports of 11-12 MPG in mixed driving. The infotainment system and interior design are recurrently criticized as being dated, laggy, and featuring low-quality materials with excessive hard plastics for its luxury price point. A significant point of contention is reliability: while the powertrain is considered robust, there are very frequent reports of extremely expensive failures of the catalytic converters, often occurring just outside of warranty, with repair costs cited between $1,700 and $2,600. Concerns about timing chain issues and variable valve timing (VVT) solenoids are also recurrent. The vehicle is seen as offering tremendous value on the used market due to steep depreciation, making it a compelling purchase when heavily discounted, but a poor value at or near its original high MSRP.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a more affordable, value-oriented alternative to the Lexus LX and Land Cruiser, offering similar size, V8 power, and a comfortable ride at a significantly lower purchase price, especially when bought used. It is consistently noted as being less reliable in the long term than the Toyota/Lexus counterparts, primarily due to the catalytic converter and potential timing chain issues. Compared to domestic full-size SUVs (Tahoe, Expedition, Navigator), the QX80 is often viewed as having a more reliable core powertrain but far inferior technology and interior modernity. It is frequently compared directly to the Nissan Armada/Patrol, with which it shares its platform and powertrain, leading to perceptions of the Infiniti as a more luxurious but mechanically identical variant. Against the Jeep Grand Cherokee, it is seen as larger, more comfortable for families, and more powerful, but less capable for serious off-roading.
Recommended configurations
All-wheel drive (AWD) is recommended for winter and all-weather traction. Owners strongly advise purchasing used to benefit from steep depreciation, targeting examples with a single owner, no accidents, and full service history. A Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) warranty or an Infiniti Extended Protection Plan (IEPP) is considered mandatory by many due to the high cost of potential repairs like catalytic converters. For off-road use, replacing the factory Bridgestone Dueler tires with more capable all-terrain tires like the Yokohama Geolander G056 or Michelin LTX is recommended. Sticking to a strict 5,000-mile oil change interval is emphasized to prevent engine sludge and VVT-related issues.
General recommendations
Highly recommended for buyers seeking a comfortable, powerful, and spacious full-size SUV at a significant discount on the used market. Ideal for families, long-distance highway driving, and those who prioritize powertrain smoothness over cutting-edge tech. NOT recommended for buyers sensitive to fuel costs, those who desire modern infotainment and interior design, or anyone unwilling to purchase an extended warranty. A pre-purchase inspection is critical, with a focus on the condition of the catalytic converters, verification of timing chain service history, and a check for VVT-related fault codes. Negotiate aggressively on extended warranty pricing if buying from a dealer. For new purchases, the 2025 model represents a complete redesign with a new turbocharged V6; owner feedback on this new generation is currently limited and indicates potential first-year technology teething problems.
Remarks
The provided feedback overwhelmingly concerns the previous-generation QX80 (codenamed Y62, sold from approximately 2014 through 2024). This generation shared its platform and powertrain with the Nissan Armada and global Nissan Patrol. The steep depreciation is a double-edged sword: it creates a compelling value proposition on the used market but reflects market concerns about long-term running costs and dated design. The catalytic converter issue is the most severe and frequently cited financial liability. A new generation QX80 launched for the 2025 model year with a twin-turbo V6, redesigned interior, and new technology. Initial, isolated reports on the 2025 model mention first-year infotainment software issues, and a retired Infiniti employee advised caution with first-year production. Analysis based on approximately 40 substantive owner discussions and comparisons.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearNo year grades F. Best year: 2022Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score.
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 6 | 2 | forward collision avoidance |
| 2025 | 8 | 4 | unknown or other |
| 2024 | 2 | 1 | electrical system |
| 2023 | 2 | 1 | unknown or other |
| 2022 | 1 | 1 | electrical system |
| 2021 | 7 | 3 | fuel/propulsion system |
| 2020 | 6 | 2 | unknown or other |
| 2019 | 20 | 2 | electrical system |
| 2018 | 9 | 2 | electrical system |
| 2017 | 17 | 1 | air bags |
| 2016 | 14 | 1 | service brakes |
| 2015 | 18 | 2 | fuel/propulsion system |
| 2014 | 21 | 4 | engine |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices26 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2026 · back over prevention:softwarecampaign 25V821000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2025 Murano, 2025-2026 Armada, and Infiniti QX80 vehicles. A software error may occur in the In-Vehicle Infotainment (IVI) system at vehicle startup, resulting in the rearview camera image not displaying when the vehicle is shifted into reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2026 · equipment:other:labelscampaign 26V455000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020-2026 Nissan Armada, 2011-2013 Infiniti QX56, and 2014-2027 QX80 vehicles equipped with 22" wheels. The Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) listed on the certification label is incorrect, which can allow the vehicle to be overloaded. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
2025 · back over preventioncampaign 24V748000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2024-2025 Rogue and 2025 INFINITI QX80 vehicles. A software error may cause the rearview camera to display a blank screen when the vehicle is in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2025 · back over prevention:softwarecampaign 24V747000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2025 INFINITI QX80 vehicles equipped with an Around View Monitor (AVM). A software error may cause the rearview camera to freeze and display a blank screen when the vehicle is in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2025 · back over prevention:softwarecampaign 25V821000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2025 Murano, 2025-2026 Armada, and Infiniti QX80 vehicles. A software error may occur in the In-Vehicle Infotainment (IVI) system at vehicle startup, resulting in the rearview camera image not displaying when the vehicle is shifted into reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2025 · equipment:other:labelscampaign 26V455000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020-2026 Nissan Armada, 2011-2013 Infiniti QX56, and 2014-2027 QX80 vehicles equipped with 22" wheels. The Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) listed on the certification label is incorrect, which can allow the vehicle to be overloaded. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
2024 · equipment:other:labelscampaign 26V455000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020-2026 Nissan Armada, 2011-2013 Infiniti QX56, and 2014-2027 QX80 vehicles equipped with 22" wheels. The Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) listed on the certification label is incorrect, which can allow the vehicle to be overloaded. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
2023 · equipment:other:labelscampaign 26V455000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020-2026 Nissan Armada, 2011-2013 Infiniti QX56, and 2014-2027 QX80 vehicles equipped with 22" wheels. The Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) listed on the certification label is incorrect, which can allow the vehicle to be overloaded. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
2022 · equipment:other:labelscampaign 26V455000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020-2026 Nissan Armada, 2011-2013 Infiniti QX56, and 2014-2027 QX80 vehicles equipped with 22" wheels. The Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) listed on the certification label is incorrect, which can allow the vehicle to be overloaded. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
2021 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pump:control/drive modulecampaign 21V373000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Nissan Armada and 2020-2021 INFINITI QX80 vehicles equipped with V8 engines. The impeller can swell and bind within the fuel pump module, causing it to fail.
2021 · back over prevention:display functioncampaign 21V599000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2021 Infinity Q50, Q60, and QX80 vehicles. A software error may deactivate the audio/video control unit screen, preventing the rear-view image from displaying. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2021 · equipment:other:labelscampaign 26V455000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020-2026 Nissan Armada, 2011-2013 Infiniti QX56, and 2014-2027 QX80 vehicles equipped with 22" wheels. The Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) listed on the certification label is incorrect, which can allow the vehicle to be overloaded. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
2020 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pump:control/drive modulecampaign 21V373000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Nissan Armada and 2020-2021 INFINITI QX80 vehicles equipped with V8 engines. The impeller can swell and bind within the fuel pump module, causing it to fail.
2020 · equipment:other:labelscampaign 26V455000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2020-2026 Nissan Armada, 2011-2013 Infiniti QX56, and 2014-2027 QX80 vehicles equipped with 22" wheels. The Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) listed on the certification label is incorrect, which can allow the vehicle to be overloaded. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
2019 · back over prevention: sensing system: cameracampaign 19V654000
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Nissan Altima, Armada, Frontier, Kicks, Leaf, Maxima, Murano, NV, NV200, Pathfinder, Rogue, Rogue Sport, Sentra, Titan, Titan Diesel, Versa Note and Versa Sedan vehicles, as well as Infiniti Q50, Q60, QX30 and QX80 vehicles. Additionally included are 2019 Nissan GT-R and Taxi and Infiniti QX50, QX60, Q70, Q70L vehicles. The back-up camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rear view image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
11 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
Enthusiast code: Z63
3.5 V6
3.5L 6-cylinder · 450 hp · RWD · automatic
Built 2024–2026