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With changes coming to the QX80 as it releases its 2022 model this fall, one stands out the most. The Infiniti QX80 interior has had nearly the same dual-screen center control panel since it was still named the QX56 in 2013. Even the non-luxury owner of the Infiniti brand, Nissan, updated the identical Armada center control panel since then. Outside the lack of QX80 body changes since 2018, this was the one feature falling behind other large luxury SUVs.

An Aging Interior, Upgraded

The all new center control panel for the 2022 Infiniti QX80
2022 Infiniti QX80 All New Center Control Panel | Infiniti USA

The brand new 2022 Infiniti QX80 interior features a 12.3-inch screen and built-in navigation as standard features. It also comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto compatibility in all trims. There are three trim levels that add a wireless smartphone charger and a premium Bose stereo system. QX80s can cost more than $85,000, so aging technology does not do well compared to other brands. Especially when Infiniti’s parent company, Nissan, is selling the much less expensive Armada with more updated technology.

Recently, a buyer could purchase a Nissan Armada Platinum for $65,300, nearly $20,000 fewer than the Premium QX80. For that kind of price difference, one might expect the more expensive option to have better technology. Thankfully, that’s finally changing in 2022. The QX80 dual-screen display and controls weren’t bad, but they’ve become outdated and went unchanged for far too long. The interface could be confusing and difficult to manage, and no features like Apple CarPlay were available. Apple CarPlay has been available in much more affordable vehicles for a long time.

What will the 2022 Infiniti QX80 cost?

A brown 2022 Infiniti QX80 parked within view of a city skyline.
2022 Infiniti QX80 | Infiniti USA

The Infiniti QX80 will release in the fall of 2021, with price increases coming for all three trim levels. If buyers want the four-wheel-drive version of any trim level, it’ll cost an extra $3,100.

  • 2022 Infiniti QX80 Luxe RWD: +$1,450 to $71,995
    • The base Luxe trim level will come with Napa leather seats, a premium Bose audio system featuring 13 speakers, a power liftgate, heated front seats, and 20-inch alloy wheels.
  • 2022 Infiniti QX80 Premium Select RWD: +$1,935 to $76,780
    • The Premium Select trim will add 22-inch chrome-finish wheels and stylish interior trim.
  • 2022 Infiniti QX80 Sensory RWD: +$1,935 to $83,630
    • The Sensory trim level adds ventilated front seats, an even better 17-speaker audio system, and chrome exterior accents.

These price increases come from only interior center control panel and technology upgrades in the 2022 Infiniti QX80. No major changes have been made to the vehicle mechanically or otherwise. The QX80 will still come standard with a 400 hp 5.6-liter V8 engine. The body style of the vehicle has gone unchanged for the 2022 model year, according to Cars.com.

As far as large SUVs are concerned, the QX80 has a lot to offer. However, even with updated technology, Infiniti’s most expensive SUV will rely on power to outperform its competition. Staying within the Infiniti family of vehicles, the 2022 Infiniti QX60 also offers third-row seating but starts at just $46,850. Meaning for almost half the price of a QX80, you can purchase a midsize SUV that also seats seven. The standard V8 engine and spacious interior are important features for standing out against other SUVs.

The 2022 Infiniti QX80 will become available for purchase in the fall of 2021.

RELATED: The 2022 Infiniti QX80 Didn’t Stop When the NYIAS Was Canceled

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