Friend of the site Connie Peters reviews the 2026 Infiniti QX80 Sport.
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Transcript:
The 2026 Infiniti QX80 received a full redesign for the 2025 model year, and for 2026 it gains a new trim level called the Sport. This trim sits between the Lux and the top Autograph model. In Canada, every QX80 comes standard with four-wheel drive, while in the United States the base trims are offered with two-wheel drive.
Despite the name, the Sport trim doesn’t add more power or performance. Instead, the changes are mostly aesthetic. It features a more aggressive blacked-out front grille, several black exterior accents, and 22-inch black wheels. The look is complemented by black roof rails, black mirror caps, and body-colored door handles that sit flush when the vehicle is locked. Fixed running boards are also included.
The example shown here is finished in Grand Blue, which is an optional color. It’s paired with a blue semi-aniline leather interior, which stands out nicely. Another upgrade with the Sport trim is the 24-speaker Klipsch audio system, compared to the 12-speaker system found in the lower trims. If a strong sound system is a priority, that upgrade alone may be worth stepping up to either the Sport or the Autograph trim. The system even includes speakers integrated into the headrests.
Mechanically, the Sport trim uses the same powertrain as the rest of the QX80 lineup. It’s powered by a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 producing 450 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Maximum towing capacity remains 8,500 pounds. The Sport trim does include air suspension, which contributes to a very comfortable driving experience.
The Klipsch headrest speakers are noticeable when navigation prompts come through Apple Maps or Google Maps, since directions can play directly into your ear, though that feature can be adjusted. The available camera system makes parking easier as well, which helps because the QX80 still feels like a large SUV when maneuvering in tighter spaces.
Design-wise, nothing changes for 2026. The QX80 retains its distinctive rear “piano key” lighting signature across the tailgate. Towing capacity remains at 8,500 pounds, and the Sport trim features darker QX80S and four-wheel-drive badging.
As a full-size three-row SUV, there’s a generous amount of cargo space behind the third row. The rear cargo area also allows you to raise or lower the air suspension and fold the seats electronically. That’s especially helpful when loading gear or managing family cargo. There’s also a household power outlet in the back, along with tether points for up to five car seats when equipped with second-row captain’s chairs and a 60/40 split third row.
Inside, the Sport trim features a leather-wrapped steering wheel with a two-tone design that incorporates blue leather along the outer edge and darker material in the center. The cabin uses dusk blue leather and wood trim throughout, giving the interior a distinctive look.
Technology includes ProPilot Assist, a fully digital driver display, and Google-built-in infotainment. Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto are included, and the system connects quickly to wireless CarPlay. There’s also a large head-up display.
Climate controls are managed through a haptic screen interface. Heated and ventilated front seats are standard, along with a heated steering wheel. The push-button gear selector sits below the climate controls. A 360-degree camera system and a high-resolution backup camera help with maneuvering, and the front camera remains active up to about 15 to 20 km/h after shifting out of reverse. The vehicle also features a digital rearview mirror.
The center console is trimmed in blue leather and suede and offers plenty of hidden storage. It includes a wireless charging pad, two USB-C ports, concealed cup holders, and a large storage compartment. On the Autograph trim, this compartment can function as a cooled storage box.
Second-row passengers sit in dusk blue semi-aniline leather seats with patterned stitching. Heated seats are available in this row. The Autograph trim adds massaging second-row seats and heated seats for the third row, which are not included on the Sport trim.
The cabin also features a panoramic sunroof, rear climate controls, two USB-C charging ports, and a 12-volt outlet. The floor is nearly flat, and additional cup holders and USB-C ports are located in the center console between the captain’s chairs. Door panels combine blue leather and wood trim, and grab handles make it easier to enter and exit the vehicle.
The second-row seats offer power tilt-and-slide functionality for third-row access. It’s slower than a manual mechanism, but it works smoothly.
The third row is fairly spacious for a full-size SUV. While the materials differ slightly from the first and second rows, it still provides seating for three passengers. There’s a LATCH point for one car seat, cup holders, USB-C charging ports on both sides, air vents, and large windows. The elevated seating position also gives third-row passengers good forward visibility.
As mentioned earlier, the Sport trim sits just below the Autograph. It includes several premium features from the top model while adding upgrades over the Lux trim.
As tested, this example comes in at about $125,000 Canadian, or roughly $107,000 U.S. For buyers looking for a full-size three-row SUV, it competes with models like the Lincoln Navigator and Chevrolet Suburban.
If you’re considering one for your family, it’s worth comparing those options to see which fits your needs best. Let me know which one you’d choose.