Families have a lot of options when it comes to luxury SUVs. The Infiniti QX80 may attract shoppers with its powerful engine, a long list of technology features, and ample seating capacity. However, some sources say that your money is better spent elsewhere.

According to U.S. News, the 2020 Infiniti QX80 ranks near the bottom of the current large SUV options. Given the high price tag of the QX80, you want to make sure you’re getting the most bang for your buck. Here are a few areas where the QX80 lags behind the competition.

Outdated technology

The Infiniti QX80 offers a good amount of safety and infotainment features. For this model year, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay were finally made standard. The base model also comes with a new dual-screen setup, which features built-in navigation and satellite radio. 

Advanced safety features including a surround-view parking camera, rain-sensing wipers, and parking sensors come standard on the QX80. However, the car’s computer hasn’t had any major upgrades since 2011. Because of this, the controls don’t always work as well as intended. Shoppers are better off with the BMW X7, which comes with more user-friendly tech.

Terrible fuel economy

The Infiniti QX80 has some of the worst gas mileage estimates for its class. It averages only 14 mpg on city drives and 20 mpg at highway speeds. Unlike many of its rivals, this SUV only has one engine option.

However, the BMW X7 provides some better alternatives for fuel-conscious buyers. The base trim comes with a turbocharged engine that gets 20 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the interstate. The Land Rover Range Rover is also more conservative on fuel, though it’s considerably more expensive than the QX80.

Subpar reliability

If you’re paying a premium price for a luxury vehicle, you typically expect it to hold up for many years. Unfortunately, the Infiniti QX80 doesn’t fare so well compared to its rivals. J.D. Power only gave it a predicted reliability rating of 2.5 out of 5. Consumer Reports gave it a slightly higher rating of three out of five, but many similar vehicles have better scores.

For example, the Toyota Land Cruiser boasts an almost perfect reliability rating, plus a higher owner satisfaction score. The Lincoln Navigator is also more dependable, earning a 3.5 rating from J.D. Power.

Older interior

The Infiniti QX80 has plenty of cargo and passenger space, even in the smaller third row. The seats are made with highly supportive and cushy leather. Despite this, some critics point out that the QX80 has a few cheap-looking materials inside. Also, like the car’s computer system, it hasn’t been updated for almost 10 years.

Some shoppers may prefer the cabins of Mercedes-Benz SUVs. The upscale GLS-Class and capable G-Class models come standard with soft leather seats and even real wood veneers. The GLS was also completely redesigned for this year with better fuel economy and more standard creature comforts.

Good things about the Infiniti QX80

Despite all its flaws, the Infiniti QX80 still has some great features. Its lively V8 engine is capable of 400 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque. It’s quick to pass other cars on the freeway and its refined suspension does a good job absorbing hard bumps.

It’s also the cheapest large luxury SUV on the market. The base trim retails for around $66,000, while most of the competition costs over $70,000. Still, the car’s low reliability and high fuel costs may end up costing drivers more money in the long run. The Infiniti QX80 is a decent luxury offering, but why settle for less when there are better options available?