Infiniti QX80 refreshed for 2015, range-topping Limited trim added

Wed, 16 Apr 2014

Alongside the updated Q70, Infiniti has refreshed its fullsize SUV, the QX80, for the 2014 New York Auto Show. Like its freshened sedan, the QX80 is full of incremental styling tweaks typical of a mid-cycle update like this. Also like the Q70, there's a new member of the QX80 family for the 2015 model year.

But first, the overarching changes for the QX80 range. As we said, this is pretty standard fare, with new headlights and taillights and a restyled grille designed to fit the full-sizer in with the most recent Infiniti design language. Full LED headlights, turn signals and fog lights should provide a bit more illumination, while the mesh inserts on the "double-arch" grille remind us of the Q50. Still, this is a rather bulbous, inelegant piece of design in our eyes. Out back, the shape of the taillights has been tweaked, and they now sport LED illumination. The new rear bumper is larger, as well.

In the cabin, upgrades are similarly sparse. There are a few new tech items, like automatic high beams and predictive forward collision warning. Overall, though, this is the same wood-and-leather-lined cabin Infiniti has been selling for the past few years.

Now, the new stuff. Infiniti is launching a top-tier model called the QX80 Limited. It's best to think of this big guy as Infiniti's answer to the Land Rover Range Rover Autobiography trim and the Mercedes-Benz GL-Class Designo options, offering an even nicer interior than the standard SUV while adding a few exterior tweaks, as well.

Smoked headlights and taillights, dark chrome exterior trim and unique 22-inch wheels round out the exterior upgrades for the Limited. Inside, Truffle Brown semi-aniline leather covers the seats, complete with quilted stitching and silver piping. Real Ash trim is standard and features a matte finish, while the headliner is finished in Ultrasuede.

We'll have more on the new QX80 and QX80 Limited when they make their auto show debut in the Big Apple. Take a look below for the full press releases on both models.

2015 Infiniti QX80 Receives Updated Appearance, Interior Enhancements for New Model Year

• Extensive list of enhancements for new model year includes Infiniti Q50-style front end styling, LED high/low beam headlights, new exterior colors
• Luxurious interior offers additional refinements, starting with new Stratford Burl trim, leather-wrapped and Stratford Burl steering wheel
• High Beam Assist and Predictive Forward Collision Warning (PFCW) join long list of previously available technology

New York / Hong Kong – The Infiniti QX80 offers a fresh new exterior design and a more crafted interior for 2015, plus additional standard features and technology, bringing Infiniti's premium full-size luxury SUV closer in look and feel to the dramatic new Infiniti Q50 sports sedan. The new Infiniti QX80 made its world debut at the New York International Auto Show prior to going on sale at Infiniti retailers in the United States in fall 2014.

The extensive exterior design refinements focus on the QX80's frontend appearance, with the new upper grille shape and added lower grille mirroring the bold style of the popular Q50. The revised front fascia also features new LED high/low beam headlights, LED turn signals, LED fog lights and a new bumper with flush-mounted sonar sensors. Chrome-plated outside rear mirror caps have been added to the QX80 Deluxe Technology Package.

In the rear of the QX80 a larger, standard bumper protector helps reduce potential damage when loading or unloading recreational gear or bulky cargo. There are also three new exterior colors among the seven total color choices: Hermosa Blue, Graphite Shadow and Majestic White.

Two new wheel designs are also added – standard machine-finished 20-inch aluminum-alloy wheels and 14-spoke 22-inch forged aluminum-alloy wheels (the largest available in segment) available with the optional 22-inch Tire and Wheel Package.

The 2015 QX80's interior refinements and revised grade level content reflect input from current owners, who have requested greater visual differentiation between color/wood trim offerings and more choices in the optional technology groupings.

As in the 2014 model year, two interior color atmospheres are available – Wheat or Graphite leather-appointed seating – along with two interior finisher colors. The previous Tuscan Burl trim has been replaced with a darker Mocha Burl with a heavier, richer and more reddish wood grain. Also added as part of this interior is new steering wheel trim.

The previous Deluxe Touring Package's Mocha Burl finisher package receives a new Stratford Burl with a heavier, fine furniture-like appearance, along with new leather-appointed upper door panel design with a fresher, more cut look. Now named the Deluxe Technology Package, it also features semi-aniline leather seating surfaces and Stratford Burl-trimmed steering wheel.

All Graphite-colored interiors feature new silver contrast stitching (previously black stitching) and the center stack and steering wheel switches receive new silver color accents.

Several new technologies have been added for 2015, starting with the Q50's advanced High Beam Assist and Predictive Forward Collision Warning (PFCW). The High Beam Assist headlight function, which is standard on all models, utilizes a forward camera to read oncoming or upcoming traffic and automatically dips the high beams to the low beam setting. The high beam setting is restored when the traffic is clear.

The Predictive Forward Collision Warning (PFCW) system warns the driver of risks that lie beyond the driver's field of view. It not only can sense the relative velocity and distance of a vehicle directly ahead, but also of a vehicle travelling in front of the preceding one. Also added are standard 3 Blink one-touch turn signals.

An extensive suite of advance technology systems is again available with the QX80, but where last year the major systems were combined in the Technology Package (which also required the Deluxe Touring Package), for 2015 the previous content is split into a new Driver Assistance Package and the Deluxe Technology Package.

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.

The Deluxe Technology Package now includes Blind Spot Intervention® (BSI), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP). As in previous years, the comprehensive package also offers Front Pre-Crash Seatbelts, Bose® Cabin Surround® sound system with 15 speakers, Hydraulic Body Motion Control system, climate-controlled front seats, semi-aniline leather seating surfaces, the Stratford Burl trim, 2nd row footwell courtesy lights, Advanced Climate Control System (ACCS), chrome mirror caps, Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) with auto-leveling headlights and headlight washers.

About the 2015 Infiniti QX80

The 2015 Infiniti QX80 again offers a unique combination of inspired design and performance that makes it stand out in the luxury performance SUV class. The QX80's unmatched combination of power, strength and luxury style makes it capable of transporting up to eight adults and their belongings with spacious elegance.

The QX80's drivetrain is rugged enough to handle tasks such as towing boats or trailers (8,500-pound towing capacity, when properly equipped), while being equally at home transporting friends and family for a night on the town.

All Infiniti QX80s include a high-stiffness frame structure that enhances ride comfort while reducing noise, vibration and harshness. The QX80 is offered in rear- wheel drive and four-wheel drive, with the AWD model featuring Infiniti's proven All-Mode AWD® system with Auto, 4H and 4L modes.

The proven 5.6-liter V8 engine combines the responsive acceleration of Infiniti's VVEL (Variable Valve Event & Lift) technology with the efficiency of Direct Injection Gasoline (DIG) to produce 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque. A smooth 7- speed automatic transmission with Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) and manual shift mode with Downshift Rev Matching (DRM) is standard on all models.

The QX80's suspension is an independent double-wishbone design front and rear, with Dual-Flow Path? twin tube shock absorbers and an automatic rear leveling system that seeks to maintain uniform ground clearance and departure angle, even when towing or carrying cargo, by automatically adjusting the air pressure in the system's air bladders. In addition, an advanced Hydraulic Body Motion Control system is available on both 2WD and AWD models as part of the Deluxe Technology Package. The system helps to reduce body lean in turns, resulting in improved ride comfort for passengers in all three rows. Suspension travel is automatically controlled by hydraulic chambers integrated into each shock absorber.

Braking is provided by 4-wheel disc brakes (13.8-inch vented discs front and rear) with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and 2-wheel or 4-wheel Active Brake Limited-Slip (ABLS) are standard on every QX80, along with engine-speed- sensitive power steering.

The QX80's world-class inner sanctum offers a comfortable space and personal controls for every occupant. It features standard 7-passenger seating capacity, with 8-passenger capacity available. Leather-appointed seating is standard for all three rows. Even more luxurious semi-aniline leather seating surfaces are offered in the Deluxe Technology Package.

The driver's seat is 10-way power adjustable, including 2-way power lumbar support. It features a standard dual occupant memory system for the driver's seat, steering wheel and outside mirrors.

The front passenger's seat is 8-way power adjustable, including 2-way power lumbar support. Heated front seat are standard, with available climate-controlled (heating and cooling functions) front seats and heated 2nd row seats (outboard positions only when equipped with a bench seat).

The 2nd row captain's chairs offer a tip-up function for easy 3rd row entry/exit. For those desiring 8-passenger capacity, the Split Bench Seat Package replaces the standard 2nd row captain's chairs and center console with a 3-passenger bench seat with 60/40-split folding. The 3rd row seat is a 60/40-split power folding design. The 2nd row center console includes two cupholders and two storage bins. Also standard is a heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel. A 16.6 cubic foot cargo space for luggage is provided with the 3rd row seat up.

The QX80's long list of additional comfort and convenience features includes nine cupholders and four door-pocket bottle holders, Tri-Zone Automatic Temperature Control, Infiniti Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition, Fine Vision electroluminescent gauges and Infiniti signature analog clock.

Available as part of the Deluxe Technology Package is an Advanced Climate Control System (ACCS) with Plasmacluster® air purifier, Grape Polyphenol filter and auto recirculation.

Among the QX80's available premium entertainment and technology features are an 8-inch WVGA color touch-screen display, Infiniti Controller for use with vehicle information systems and comfort and convenience features, and the Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System with NavTraffic with Real-Time Traffic Information, NavWeather with Real-Time Weather and 3-day forecast (SiriusXM subscription required, sold separately). Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System is also standard.

The QX80's standard Around View® Monitor with Front and Rear Sonar System includes the advanced Moving Object Detection (MOD) system. Around View® Monitor utilizes four small superwide-angle cameras – mounted on the front, side and rear of the QX80 – to provide a virtual 360° view of objects around the vehicle, helping to maneuver it in tight spots. The MOD function helps enhance the driver's situational awareness by providing visual and audible warnings (front or back range object detection) if the system detects large moving objects within the displayed image in situations such as when pulling out of a parking space.

Two advanced audio systems are offered. The standard Bose® 13-speaker Premium Audio System includes two subwoofers and rear headliner-mounted 3rd row speakers that help ensure that sound quality is not compromised by obstructions such as luggage or cargo. Also available is the Bose® Cabin Surround® sound system with 15 speakers, which is part of the Deluxe Technology Package. Other standard equipment includes a single in-dash CD/DVD player with MP3 playback, SiriusXM Satellite Radio (SiriusXM subscription required, sold separately), USB connection port for use with iPod® Interface or other compatible devices and Streaming Audio via Bluetooth®. The available Theater Package features dual 7-inch color monitors, two pairs of wireless headphones, wireless remote control, auxiliary input jacks and 120V power outlet. The system allows playback of games or movies in the rear (games and movies sold separately), 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.

2015 Infiniti QX80 Limited Offers Unique Styling, Highest Level of Premium Comfort and Technology Ever

• New Infiniti QX80 Limited Makes World Debut at New York International Auto Show
• Features unique exterior highlights, ultra-luxury interior and state-of-the-art entertainment and safety technology
• Offered in one fully equipped, production-restricted All-Wheel Drive model
• Set to arrive at Infiniti's U.S. retailers in late 2014

New York / Hong Kong – The new 2015 Infiniti QX80 Limited is destined to be unlike any Infiniti SUV ever when it launches in late 2014 in the United States. With restricted production, the Limited lives up to its name with an extensive menu of exclusive features, including an upgraded level of craftsmanship surpassing even the high standards of "ordinary" QX80s.

The new Infiniti QX80 Limited starts with a fully equipped 2015 QX80 – which receives a major redesign for the model year itself – then adds subtle exterior upgrades and an interior that wouldn't be out of place in an ultra-executive boardroom or private jet.

"The new QX80 Limited occupies a unique place in the luxury SUV market, offering an ultra-luxury interior in a 3-row/7-passenger contemporary platform," said Infiniti Americas President Michael Bartsch. "Our new Limited answers the demand from QX80 owners for a vehicle that is more sophisticated but not over-the-top – and one that remains at its core pure Infiniti. It's a combination that should also attract many new ultra-luxury buyers to the Infiniti brand."

Unique Exterior, Premium-Plus Interior

In addition to the refinements to the 2015 QX80, which bring it closer to the look and feel of the dramatic new Infiniti Q50 sports sedan, the QX80 Limited adds a number of exterior enhancements. The QX80's LED headlights receive a dark finish, matched with tinted rear combination lamps and special lighting under the brushed finish running boards. A dark chrome finish is added to the upper and lower grille surround, fog light surround, side vents, roof rails and crossbars, A-pillar finisher, door handles, license plate surround and side mirror caps. The standard 22-inch aluminum-alloy wheels also feature a unique dark finish treatment.

The QX80 Limited is available in six exterior colors, three of which – Imperial Black, Mocha Almond and Dakar Bronze – are exclusive to the Limited. The other three exterior colors, shared with all 2015 QX80s, are Liquid Platinum, Black Obsidian and Majestic White.

Inside, the QX80 Limited stands out with a unique Truffle Brown interior environment marked by a palette of brown, black and silver leather and wood appointments and trim.

"The interior is decidedly masculine in appearance, what might be unapologetically described as a 'mobile man cave,'" said Bartsch. "There's an ambience and richness that perfectly complements the precision craftsmanship and attention to detail found in every Infiniti vehicle."

When it comes to the fine luxury details of the QX80 Limited, nothing has been overlooked. Along with the special Truffle Brown semi-aniline leather-appointed seats, there is unique seat quilting with silver accent piping. In addition, the speaker grilles on the instrument panel have also been leather-wrapped. Even the assist handles are covered in leather and the center cluster features special silver accenting.

The seats themselves have the appearance and feel of contemporary leather furniture. The wood trim is unique to the QX80 Limited – natural-tone genuine Ash wood selected for its "open pore" look and matte finish. The 2nd row follows the same pattern as the front seats, with open pore wood trim on the doors and center console finisher, along with leather-wrapped assist handles.

The headliner and pillars (A-, B- and C-pillars) are also covered with an Ultrasuede® leather lining. The steering wheel, too, is wrapped in special high-grade, smooth leather. Completing the long list of interior enhancements are unique branded stainless steel lighted doorsills.
The 2015 Infiniti QX80 Limited will be available in one completely equipped All- Wheel Drive model with the Truffle Brown interior. There are no option packages.

"The QX80 Limited's stunning style and thoughtful package of exclusive features is going to turn heads – on the road and among the ultra-luxury status quo," said Bartsch.

More Than Just Fine Leather and Wood

Along with all the features that set the new Infiniti QX80 Limited apart, not to be overlooked is the fact that it also comes complete with all of the standard features and equipment of the top-of-the-lineup QX80 AWD with Driver's Assistance Package, 22" Wheels, Theater Package and Deluxe Technology Package – and its unmatched combination of power, strength and luxury style.

Capable of transporting seven adults and their belongings in spacious elegance, the QX80 drivetrain is rugged enough to handle tasks such as towing boats or trailers (8,500-pound towing capacity, when properly equipped). The Infiniti QX80 is built
?
on a foundation of a high-stiffness frame structure that enhances ride comfort while reducing noise, vibration and harshness.
The proven 5.6-liter V8 engine combines the responsive acceleration of Infiniti's VVEL (Variable Valve Event & Lift) technology with the efficiency of Direct Injection Gasoline (DIG) to produce 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque.

The advanced 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). The standard Infiniti All-Mode AWD® system includes 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. Also included is Hill Start Assist.

Responsive handling is provided by an independent double-wishbone design front and rear with automatic rear leveling and advanced Hydraulic Body Motion Control system. The system helps to reduce body lean in turns, resulting in improved ride comfort for passengers in all three rows.
The Infiniti QX80 Limited exterior includes automatic on/off LED headlights with windshield wiper interlock and integrated LED front fog lights. Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) with auto-leveling headlights and headlight washers are also standard, as are LED taillights, heated power-folding sideview mirrors with integrated turn signals, courtesy lights and reverse tilt-down feature. Body color running boards, body color integrated front and rear splashguards built into the wheel arches, roof rails and crossbars, power sliding tinted glass moonroof and a power rear liftgate are also standard.

The QX80 Limited's interior features a 10-way power adjustable driver's seat, (including 2-way power lumbar support) with dual occupant memory system for the driver's seat, steering wheel and outside mirrors. The front passenger's seat is 8- way power adjustable. Both front seats are climate-controlled (heating and cooling functions), while the 2nd row captain's chairs are heated. A 2nd row tip-up function with remote release provides easy 3rd row entry/exit.

The 3rd row seat is a 60/40-split power folding design. A 16.6 cubic foot cargo space for luggage is provided with the 3rd row seat up. When the 3rd row seat is folded, the flat load floor offers a wide, versatile space for carrying cargo.

The QX80 Limited's long list of additional comfort and convenience features includes nine cupholders and four door-pocket bottle holders, Tri-Zone Automatic Temperature Control, Infiniti Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition, Fine Vision electroluminescent gauges, Infiniti signature analog clock and an Advanced Climate Control System (ACCS) with Plasmacluster® air purifier, Grape Polyphenol filter and auto recirculation.
Premium entertainment and technology features include an 8-inch WVGA color touch-screen display, Infiniti Controller for use with vehicle information systems and comfort and convenience features, and the Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System with NavTraffic and NavWeather (SiriusXM subscription required, sold separately).

The Around View® Monitor with Front and Rear Sonar System includes the advanced Moving Object Detection (MOD) system. Around View® Monitor utilizes four small superwide-angle cameras – mounted on the front, side and rear of the QX80 – to provide a virtual 360° view of objects around the vehicle, helping to maneuver it in tight spots.

Also featured is a Bose® Cabin Surround® sound system with 15 speakers, CD/DVD player with MP3 playback, SiriusXM Satellite Radio (SiriusXM subscription required, sold separately), USB connection port for use with iPod® Interface or other compatible devices and Streaming Audio via Bluetooth®. The family entertainment system features dual 7-inch color monitors with auto-bright system, two pairs of wireless headphones, wireless remote control, auxiliary input jacks and 120V power outlet.

The Infiniti QX80 Limited also offers a seemingly unlimited list of advanced technology and safety features, including High Beam Assist, 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 Front Pre-Crash Seatbelts. Also included are Blind Spot Intervention® (BSI), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP).

The extensive list of standard safety features includes an Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt and occupant classification sensors; roof-mounted side-impact supplemental curtain air bags with rollover sensor for outboard occupant head protection for all three rows; front seat- mounted side impact supplemental air bags; 3-point front seat belts with pretensioners, load limiters and seat belt reminder; 3-point seat belts for all rear seat occupants (including center position); front seat Active Head Restraints; LATCH System (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren), Zone Body construction with front and rear crumple zones and steel side-door guard beams.
Finally, the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) features an individual tire pressure display and Tire Inflation Indicator, which provides both visual and audible signals to help owners conveniently maintain correct tire pressures.

By Brandon Turkus