The full-size luxury SUV market has never been more competitive. Cadillac, BMW, and Land Rover dominate the conversation but Infiniti is stepping back into the spotlight with the all-new 2026 QX80 Sport.
Redesigned from the ground up, the QX80 brings sharper styling, a more refined cabin, and a sportier trim that commands attention. With three rows of comfort, modern technology, and towing muscle, it promises to be more than just a family SUV. It’s designed for drivers who want luxury without compromise, presence on the road, and the confidence to handle both long highway drives and weekend escapes.
So, what makes this luxury giant worth a second look? Let’s take it for a closer spin.
First Impressions: Style and Presence
Infiniti has always leaned on bold design, and the 2026 QX80 turns that up several notches. Its silhouette is commanding, with clean lines and stronger proportions that feel modern yet unmistakably Infiniti.
The Sport trim makes a big difference for those who want a darker, more aggressive vibe. Blacked-out chrome replaces the shine, the front grille looks meaner, and 22-inch alloy wheels fill out the arches with authority. Colors like Mineral Black and Radiant White hit especially hard under Dubai’s sun, where road presence matters almost as much as performance.
The QX80 doesn’t chase sleekness like some rivals. Instead, it doubles down on SUV confidence upright, bold, and impossible to miss.
Powertrain and Driving Dynamics
Under the hood, Infiniti made one of the most significant changes in its history. Out goes the big V8, replaced by a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6. Don’t worry power is not in short supply.
- 450 horsepower
- 700 Nm of torque
- Paired with a 9-speed automatic gearbox
The result? Despite weighing over 2,600 kg, the QX80 still hustles, sprinting from 0–100 km/h in just 6.1 seconds. That’s quick for a full-size three-row SUV.
The adaptive air suspension fine-tunes itself depending on the situation lowering for aerodynamics on highways, or dropping the body for easier passenger entry. Ride quality, however, leans a bit firmer than some rivals. On smooth stretches like the E11 it feels planted and confident, but broken road surfaces reveal the stiffness.
Interior Experience: Comfort Across Three Rows
Step inside, and the QX80 greets you with an environment that feels both modern and indulgent. Infiniti clearly wants this to be more than just a luxury SUV it wants to be a family sanctuary.
Premium materials are everywhere: semi-aniline leather, open-pore wood, and brushed aluminum accents create a calming, upscale vibe. Front and second-row passengers enjoy ventilated, heated, and even massaging seats, while the third row stands out as one of the roomiest in the segment. Unlike rivals such as the Lexus LX, adults can actually sit back here without compromise.
Practicality hasn’t been overlooked. Fold the third row flat, and you unlock 1,595 liters (56.3 cubic feet) of cargo space enough for family luggage or gear for a long Ras Al Khaimah getaway. Meanwhile, cabin insulation is superb, keeping things hushed even when cruising at 120 km/h.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Luxury today isn’t just about leather and stitching it’s about tech that works seamlessly. The QX80 raises the bar with a three-screen setup that feels futuristic yet intuitive.
- Dual 14.3-inch displays handle infotainment and driver information.
- A 9-inch touchscreen is dedicated to climate control.
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto keep smartphones connected.
- And for music lovers? The available 24-speaker Klipsch Reference Premiere audio system turns the cabin into a rolling concert hall.
Passengers are also well catered for, with multiple USB-C charging ports spread across all rows perfect for long drives with family.
Safety and Driver Assistance
When it comes to peace of mind, Infiniti has loaded the QX80 with features that make long drives less stressful and city commutes more secure.
Standard systems include:
- Automatic emergency braking
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Lane-keeping assist
- Adaptive cruise control
Optional upgrades bring ProPilot Assist 2.1, Infiniti’s advanced semi-autonomous system, which allows hands-free driving on approved highways. Trailer-specific safety systems like Trailer Blind Spot Warning also make towing less daunting.
Practicality: Everyday Usability and Towing
Beyond the luxury, the QX80 also knows its role as a family workhorse. For many UAE buyers, towing capacity and daily usability are just as important as leather and chrome.
With a maximum towing capacity of 3,855 kg, it can easily pull boats, jet skis, or trailers for a desert camping trip. The adjustable air suspension makes loading heavy luggage for the airport run easier, and the lowered entry mode ensures kids and elderly passengers can climb in without a struggle.
Final Thoughts: Should You Buy the 2026 Infiniti QX80?
The all-new QX80 is Infiniti’s boldest flagship SUV yet a mix of modern design, serious interior upgrades, and performance that balances power with efficiency. It won’t be the softest riding SUV in its class, but it makes up for that with commanding presence, strong practicality, and a cabin designed to please the whole family.
- Best for: families who want style, comfort, and tech spread across three usable rows.
- Less ideal for: drivers who prioritize the smoothest, most floaty ride possible.
With rivals like the Range Rover, BMW X7, and Cadillac Escalade all competing for attention, Infiniti’s QX80 manages to carve out its own appeal blending usability with modern refinement.
Luxury SUV Living in Dubai
The 2026 Infiniti QX80 feels like it was built with Dubai and the wider UAE in mind. From navigating Business Bay traffic in air-conditioned comfort, to cruising the Abu Dhabi–Dubai highway with a quiet, composed ride, to towing toys for a weekend in Fujairah it checks boxes that matter most to UAE buyers.
In a segment filled with heavyweights, Infiniti’s flagship doesn’t just try to keep up it delivers a balance of luxury, space, and refinement that makes it a serious contender for drivers who demand more from their SUV.
Keeping Flagship SUVs at Their Best
Owning a full-size luxury SUV like the Infiniti QX80 means expecting uncompromising performance, safety, and comfort every time you turn the key. At MotorHub, we help UAE drivers protect that investment with premium car care made simple. From routine oil changes and brake inspections to advanced diagnostics, detailing, and dealership-quality repairs, our trusted service partners keep your SUV road-ready year-round. Whether you’re a Dubai city commuter or a weekend desert explorer, book your next service with MotorHub and experience worry-free motoring, tailored for the Emirates.
