The 2015 Infiniti QX80 SUV features a host of updates and improvements that are designed to keep it competitive and attractive to buyers. However, if you really liked the styling and the way it looked, rest assured, because they have not changed it all that much.
It does feature a revised front end with a different upper grille shape, new LED headlights with LED turn signals, and new LED fog lamps placed low on the resculpted bumper. Round the back, there’s a new bumper protector that “helps reduce potential damage when loading or unloading recreational gear or bulky cargo.”
Two new rim designs will also be made available: one’s a 20-inch set and the other is 22-inch, with a 14 spoke design. It also happens to be the biggest you can go for in the segment.
Interior ambiance also sees improvements. Like before, it can be had in either Wheat or Graphite toned leather but these can be combined with two new interior finish colors.
Power comes from the same 5.6-liter V8 that makes 400 hp and is coupled to a seven-speed automatic gearbox; AWD is still optional.
Being a vehicle released for current market demands, the revised QX80 features a lot of cool new tech, on top of the usual ones that all come as standard with, especially luxury ones. Options include an Advanced Climate Control System (ACCS) that purifies air coming in, internet connectivity with a wide range of useful services available (from digital radio to three-day weather foreacsts). Two audio systems are offered: a standard Bose 13-speaker or a Bose Cabin Surround setup that adds two more.
Safety doesn’t get neglected and “included in the Driver Assistance Package are Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) with Forward Emergency Braking and the new Predictive Forward Collision Warning (PFCW), Backup Collision Intervention (BCI), Intelligent Cruise Control (Full-Speed Range), Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Distance Control Assist (DCA) and steering wheel switches for the Safety Shield technologies.” High beam assist and surround-view camera come as standard.
The 2015 QX500 goes on sale in the US in the fall of 2014, after its preview at the New York motor show.
By Andrei Nedelea
PHOTO GALLERY
