2026 Infiniti QX80 Autograph Review: Does it Deliver True Luxury?

Luxury SUVs are a dime a dozen these days, but Infiniti has never been one to fade into the background. The 2026 Infiniti QX80 Autograph is the brand’s latest stab at the big leagues, hoping to challenge behemoths like the Cadillac Escalade, Lincoln Navigator, and even the all-powerful Lexus LX. It’s clear Infiniti has thrown everything, including the kitchen sink at this thing… premium materials, tech that would rival a Star Trek spaceship, and then a road presence that means everyone is looking at you. That being said, no SUV is perfect, and there are certainly quibbles and concessions with the QX80. So, is it worth your hard-earned cash? Let’s take a deep dive.

First Thoughts: A Big, Bold Statement

Just one glance of the 2026 QX80 and it’s evident the designers at Infiniti wanted this SUV to make a statement. The look is sharp, contemporary, and intimidating, with a front grille so big it could double as a billboard. The lines are muscular and the chrome accents scream luxury, while the LED lighting is stylish.

That being said, the QX80 still wears a few of the old-school SUV proportions that won’t necessarily fare well with all folks. It really does look premium, but the design in some angles might appear a tad over the top. Overall, great if you want the bolder styling. Or, if you thrive on understated elegance, you might find the glitz a bit too much.

Under the Hood: A balance between Power and…Eh Fuel Economy

There was no going soft in the power department for the 2026 QX80 by Infiniti. And here’s what you get behind the curtain:

• Engine: 3.5L twin-turbo V6
• Horsepower: 450 hp
• Torque: 515 lb-ft
• Transmission: 9-speed auto
• Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive (AWD available)
• Towing Capacity: Up to 8,500 lbs
• Fuel Economy: Estimated 15 MPG city / 21 MPG highway

The twin-turbo V6 offers plenty of grunt and the smooth-shifting 9-speed automatic is generally up to the task of keeping things buttery. It’s got a rousing urge of acceleration, it’s powerful enough that you’d have no problem towing a decent-sized trailer on it without breaking a sweat. The downside? It’s not like fuel economy is a selling point, either. While Infiniti has gotten rid of its thirsty old V8, the new engine still trails some rivals in fuel economy. If you’re using this as a daily driver, plan on many stops at the gas station.

Behind the Wheel: Plush but Not Perfect

On the highway, the QX80 is undeniably comfortable. The suspension tuning is all about a good ride, and it eats up bumps like a cornfield. Long road trips? No problem. And the cabin is dead-silent, while the seats have hints that they were modeled on first-class airline lounges.

On the handling, though, this is still a huge, heavy SUV. In corners, body roll is prominent, and it doesn’t feel that athletic either. If you are after sprightly performance, you may want to look elsewhere. The steering is light, which lightens the load for parking, and is slightly disconnected from the road.

Trims: What Are Your Options?

The 2026 Infiniti QX80 is available in three trims:

1. Luxe – The base trim, yet it comes loaded with leather upholstery, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a healthy number of driver-assist features
2. Sensory – Brings quilted leather, a higher fidelity sound system, ventilated seats, and a more sophisticated suspension system
3. Autograph – The highest-level trim that features all the luxury options Infiniti has, such as semi-aniline leather, open-pore wood, and exclusive interior/exterior accents

Tech & Interior: Very Close, But Not Quite

It feels like Infiniti really wants the QX80 to behave like a proper luxury vehicle, and for the most part, it does. The cabin materials are high quality, the seats are beyond comfortable, and the infotainment system is feature-packed. The screen is a touch screen, measuring 12.3 inches, and it’s quick to respond, while a digital gauge cluster adds a modern touch.
There are a few head-scratchers in that mix, however. The user interface on the new Model S, for instance, still isn’t as intuitive as some other systems, and while its performance helps justify the price, it’s not the most tech-laden interior around. Some of the physical controls feel a little old-school, and, hey, for a car that starts north of 80 grand, that’s a little bit of a letdown.

Competitors: The Heavy Hitters

The QX80 is competing with some truly tough rivals. Here’s how it stacks up:

1. Cadillac Escalade

• Strengths: Aggressive styling, high-tech interior, available Super Cruise hands-free driving
• Weaknesses: Expensive with top options, feels slightly massive in the city

2. Lincoln Navigator

• Strengths: Unbelievable luxury, whisper-quiet ride, third row has more room than an airplane
• Weaknesses: Infotainment system can feel a bit behind the times, expensive in higher trims

3. Lexus LX 600

• Strengths: Time-tested reliability, off-road ability, modern interior
• Weaknesses: Smaller cargo area and a learning curve with the infotainment system

4. BMW X7

• Strengths: Sportier driving characteristics, upscale cabin, stout engine choices
• Weaknesses: The Third row is cramped, and options are expensive

Where the 2026 Infiniti QX80 Autograph Excels

• Comfort: A soft and comfortable seat, a hushed cabin, and a plush ride
• Towing: It tows up to 8,500 pounds, which makes it one of the strongest options for hauling
• Aggressive Styling: If you are in the “the more aggressive the better” camp, then the QX80 delivers the message loudly
• High-Quality Materials: Infiniti didn’t cut corners when it came to luxurious quality inside

Where It Falls Short

• Fuel Economy: Even in a turbo V6, it’s not all that efficient
• Infotainment: Acceptable, but Not Best in Class
• Handling: Seems a little soft, a little vague to some drivers
• Price: It’s going up against SUVs that may give you more on upper trims

Final Verdict: Is the Infiniti QX80 Autograph Worth It?

If what you want is a large luxury SUV with radical presence, a cushy, well-appointed interior, and serious towing ability, the QX80 Autograph makes an appealing case for itself. It has a loads in its favor…especially ride quality and premium materials. That said, some competitors provide a more modern tech experience, superior fuel economy, or sharper handling.

So, what do you think? Is the 2026 Infiniti QX80 Autograph your choice over the competition? Leave your thoughts in the comments below!