2026 Infiniti QX80 Sport: Redefining Luxury Performance in Full-Size SUVs
Infiniti, the luxury arm of Nissan, is no stranger to producing refined and upscale vehicles. However, with the release of the 2026 Infiniti QX80 Sport, the brand takes a daring leap forward — fusing aggressive design, cutting-edge technology, and potent performance in a bold, full-size luxury SUV. The QX80 Sport is not just an evolution of the current flagship but a complete reimagining of what Infiniti can offer in a segment dominated by European and American giants.
The 2026 QX80 Sport is set to revolutionize the luxury SUV industry thanks to its dynamic handling skills, opulent interior, and dominating presence. This article delves into every key aspect of the QX80 Sport — from its design philosophy and performance specifications to its tech-laden interior and market competitiveness.
Slides: 2026 Infiniti QX80 Sport
A New Design Language: Bolder, Sleeker, Sportier
The 2026 QX80 Sport marks a significant departure from the conservative styling of its predecessors. It adopts Infiniti’s new design language, which emphasizes clean surfaces, athletic lines, and an imposing stance. The front fascia is dominated by a reimagined double-arch grille, surrounded by ultra-slim LED headlamps and large air intakes that give the SUV a fierce expression.
The vehicle’s proportions have been carefully refined. The roofline is slightly lowered for a sleeker profile, while the wheel arches are more pronounced, housing 22-inch alloy wheels with a sport-inspired multi-spoke design. The rear design complements the bold front, with a full-width light bar and sculpted bumper adding a modern touch.
Aerodynamics have also been improved, reducing drag while enhancing stability and fuel efficiency. The QX80 Sport isn’t just a luxury vehicle — it’s now visually aligned with performance-focused SUVs from Europe.
Powertrain and Performance: Power with Precision
The most exciting aspect of the 2026 QX80 Sport lies under the hood. Infiniti has ditched the aging 5.6-liter V8 and replaced it with a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6, which offers both increased performance and improved fuel economy. Together with Intelligent All-Wheel Drive and a 9-speed automatic transmission, this engine generates a powerful 450 horsepower and 700 Nm of torque.
Acceleration is surprisingly brisk for a vehicle of its size, with a 0–60 mph (0–100 km/h) time of just 5.6 seconds. This places the QX80 Sport squarely in competition with rivals such as the BMW X7 M60i and Mercedes-Benz GLS 580.
The chassis has also been significantly upgraded. The QX80 Sport features an adaptive air suspension, active body control, and drive mode select (including Sport, Comfort, Snow, and Tow modes), ensuring the SUV adapts to any road or driving style. Improved steering feel and enhanced brakes further elevate the driving experience, offering a sportier dynamic without compromising ride comfort.
Interior: Technology Meets Craftsmanship
Step inside the 2026 Infiniti QX80 Sport, and you’re greeted with an opulent, high-tech environment. The dashboard features a dual-display setup: a 12.3-inch digital driver display and a 17-inch OLED infotainment touchscreen that supports over-the-air updates, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and integrated Amazon Alexa.
Luxurious materials abound — semi-aniline leather, open-pore wood trim, contrast stitching, and aluminum accents are standard across the Sport trim. The cabin is whisper-quiet thanks to advanced acoustic glass and active noise cancellation. Seating for seven comes standard, with second-row captain’s chairs and a third row spacious enough for adults.
The 24 speaker Klipsch Reference Premiere audio system, which produces studio-caliber sound, is a standout feature of the new QX80. Advanced ambient lighting, customizable drive themes, and climate-controlled seats further enhance the driving experience.
Read: 2025 Cadillac Lyriq-V Review: A High-Performance Electric SUV with American Muscle DNA
Cutting-Edge Safety and Driver Assistance
Infiniti’s ProPILOT Assist 2.0 is included in the QX80 Sport, enabling hands-free driving on designated highways. A 360-degree surround-view camera system with parking guidance, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and traffic sign recognition are also included in the suite.
These technologies don’t just ensure safety — they make the QX80 Sport easier and more enjoyable to drive in both urban and long-haul scenarios.
Chart: Infiniti QX80 Sport vs Key Rivals
To help contextualize the 2026 Infiniti QX80 Sport’s position in the market, here’s a comparison with some of its key full-size luxury SUV competitors:
| Model | Horsepower | 0–60 mph (s) | Drive Type | Towing Capacity | Starting Price |
| Infiniti QX80 Sport (2026) | 450 | 5.6 | AWD | 8,500 lbs | ~$95,000 |
| BMW X7 M60i | 523 | 4.5 | AWD | 7,500 lbs | ~$110,000 |
| Mercedes-Benz GLS 580 | 510 | 4.7 | AWD | 7,700 lbs | ~$109,000 |
| Cadillac Escalade V | 682 | 4.4 | AWD | 8,200 lbs | ~$150,000 |
| Lexus LX 600 F Sport | 409 | 5.9 | AWD | 8,000 lbs | ~$100,000 |
The QX80 Sport positions itself as a more affordable, high-value alternative to its German and American rivals, offering plenty of performance and luxury without pushing into six-figure price territory.
Ride Quality, Space, and Utility
Despite its sporty edge, the QX80 Sport remains a practical full-size SUV. The air suspension allows for easy ingress and egress, as well as improved cargo access. With all seats in use, the QX80 still offers impressive cargo space, and with the rear rows folded, it opens up over 90 cubic feet of cargo room.
Additionally, towing is a strength. For weekend warriors, boaters, and RVers, the QX80 Sport is a good option because of its 8,500 lb maximum towing capability.
Customization and Trims
The Sport trim sits atop the QX80 lineup and features exclusive badging, black exterior trim, sport-tuned exhaust, and performance-calibrated suspension. Infiniti offers multiple exterior colors including new shades like “Midnight Crimson” and “Liquid Titanium.” Optional packages allow buyers to further enhance interior luxury, off-road capability, or performance.
