The Infiniti QX0 is a great family hauler for families with a lot of extra cash. If you’re craving an adventure off the beaten track, the QX80 is also a capable off-roader. It can seat up to eight passengers on plush leather upholstery, and there’s plenty of cargo space as well. Still, the Infiniti QX80 has a few flaws that hold it back from being the best three-row SUV. 

Its competition can offer updated interiors, better technology, and higher reliability scores. It also doesn’t have stellar safety scores, as MotorTrend recently pointed out.

Crash test performance

The NHTSA gave the 2020 Infiniti QX0 an overall rating of four stars on its crash tests. The car only got a three-star rating on frontal and rollover crash tests, which is the most concerning to many critics. The 2020 model hasn’t been rated by the IIHS yet.

The Infiniti QX80 also suffers from poor emergency handling. During CR’s avoidance maneuver test, the QX80 exhibited a concerning amount of body roll. Consumer Reports also found the QX80’s electronic stability control doesn’t activate as quickly as it should.

It’s no surprise that a vehicle of the QX80’s size isn’t the most agile when it comes to handling. Still, as Consumer Reports pointed out, it doesn’t inspire a lot of confidence. Even if the vehicle doesn’t roll over completely, the sensation of wheels lifting off the ground can rattle any driver.

The good news is that the suspension absorbs most bumps, and the cabin stays quiet as you’re cruising down the highway. Each QX80 comes with a 5.6-liter V8 that can make up to 400 hp. It may not be the most conservative on fuel, but it’s pretty quick for a full-size SUV.

The Infiniti QX80 isn’t the worst

Despite its shortcomings, some of the Infiniti QX80’s rivals are even more disappointing. The Lexus LX may have the most luxurious interior, but it still lacks essential technology like smartphone integration. The infotainment system is controlled by a mouse rather than a touchscreen, which can be frustrating to use while driving.

Like the QX80, the Lexus LX also doesn’t have the most efficient engine. It only gets 12 mpg on city roads and 16 mpg on the highway. MotorTrend also noted that the LX suffers from an aging interior, and the third row is too small.

The Infiniti QX80’s redeeming qualities

Testers noted that the Infiniti QX80 has excellent acceleration and braking power for such a large vehicle. It managed to get from 0-60 mph in a little over six seconds. It only needs 122 feet to come to a complete stop from 60 mph. However, Consumer Reports found that it needs a little extra stopping distance if the pavement is wet.

It’s also incredibly easy to get inside the QX80’s third row. Pressing a button on the side of the driver’s seat allows the second-row seats to automatically fold and clear a path. Considering this vehicle will probably be used by large families, this feature is incredibly convenient. 

Another perk for big families is the QX80’s massive cargo area. It has almost 50 cubic feet of luggage space with the third row folded down. With both back rows folded flat, you get 95 cubic feet of space. If that’s not enough for you, the QX80 has plenty of large storage cubbies.

The QX80’s handling problems are definitely a cause for concern, especially during hazardous road conditions. Still, it has a high overall safety rating. As long as you’re not pushing it to its limits, the QX80 is a decent full-size luxury SUV option.