Ever since Infiniti swapped out their old “model-engine capacity” naming scheme, it’s been a bit difficult to re-orient ourselves with their model lineup. The QX models refer to their large SUVs, which are rather unique among the luxury SUV offerings on our market.
It’s a combination of their classic, high capacity naturally-aspirated engines along with some out-of-the-box styling choices. Infiniti makes unique cars that aren’t too far-fetched or unorthodox to have a seat at the luxury car table. One could liken them to the cool, eccentric uncle you meet during a Deepavali/Hari Raya/Chinese New Year reunion- not necessarily the classiest, but always with a good story to tell.
The QX80 is the largest model in the Infiniti lineup, capabale of seating up to 8 people. There’s a single engine option: a 5.6-litre direct injection V8 motor, kicking out a good 405 hp and 560 Nm of torque. The V8 engine is mated to a smooth 7-speed automatic transmission with Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) and manual shift mode with Downshift Rev matching (DRM).
It is offered with standard four-wheel drive, featuring Infiniti’s proven All-Mode 4WD system with Auto, 4H, and 4L modes. The system is designed to distribute torque to all four wheels when road conditions warrant (up to 50 percent can go to the front wheels on demand), helping to enhance traction.
The Hydraulic Body Motion Control system is introduced for the first time ever on a Infiniti vehicle. The system helps reduce body lean while turning, for a more comfortable ride. Utilizing hydraulic cylinders located at the shock absorbers (connected via cross piping and two accumulators), it adjusts roll stiffness by allowing transfer of fluid between the left and right sides of the vehicle through passive weight transfer during normal driving. It also helps reduce bump shock by setting bounce and roll damping forces separately.
The QX80 offers advanced entertainment and audio system. The Bose Cabin Surround sound system with 5.1-encoding, 15-speakers, single in-dash DVD/CD player with MP3 playback capability, USB connection port for use with iPod® Interface or other compatible devices and Streaming Audio via Bluetooth®. It also includes an 8-inch high resolution color touch-screen display, dual 7-inch color headrest monitors, two pairs of wireless headphones, wireless remote control. The system allows playback of games or movies in the rear, while front occupants listen to audio all at the same time. The two 7-inch color monitors include an auto-bright system that adjusts for daytime, clouds/evening and night/tunnel lighting.
Finishing the look of the QX80 are four exterior colours to choose from – Majestic White, Graphite Shadow, Dark Currant and Black Obsidian. Interior color comes in graphite leather-appointed seating with Stratford Burl trim. Fully imported from Japan. OTR retail price without insurance RM799,000 for personal registration or RM799,200 for company registration.
