*Disclosure: This vehicle was provided to me by the manufacturer for test drive purposes and editorial consideration. All opinionated opinions are 100% mine!
2025 Infiniti QX80 Autograph Review: Big, Bold, and Built for a Damn Good Time
First impression? This SUV is a showstopper. It’s got the kind of bold styling that says, “Yes, I know who I am. Yes, I’ve arrived. Yes, I’ll take the good rosé.” The chrome accents are tasteful, not tacky, and the 22” wheels have a quiet confidence about them — like they know they’re rolling into a good time.
Now, let’s talk practicality — my love language.
- Panoramic sunroof? Yes, please. Sometimes a girl just wants to see the sky while she listens to ’70s soul and questions all her life decisions in the best way.
- Massaging front seats? Oh, honey. These are a non-negotiable once you try them. Feels like the QX80 is personally thanking me for making it my midlife joyride.
- Rear captain’s chairs? I don’t even need passengers — I just like the look of knowing I could take a full-grown adult or a perfectly folded antique rug in comfort. (but see below for additional comments)
- Smart storage everywhere — for bags, boots, bottles, backup snacks. (You know, in case I’m stranded in a Whole Foods parking lot with a craving.) But most importantly, a ton of room for donated pet supplies for Colorado Pet Pantry!
- Parking? I know, I know. It’s big. But it also has cameras, sensors, and tech smarter than some people I’ve dated. You’ll be fine.
- Klipsch Sound System – I’m an elder GenXr and love to play my music loud (I need to scale back on this, I’m getting old!)
Pros/Cons on my hit list :
- The placement of the turning signal indicators was at the top of the display – for my height, the steering wheel hid the signals and I couldn’t see if I left my signal on (until I got the Turn Signal Reminder nudge)
- The 2nd Row feels like a mini first-class lounge on wheelsand looks great but if you have frequent back seat passengers, you’ll want to upgrade the the Rear Entertainment System. This model did not have it and, besides the super fancy and impractically placed screen for the seats, it didn’t have much in the way of entertainment but then again, people always have their devices glued to them!
- Steering Wheel Pet Peeve! I like being able to slide my hand into a nook and hold onto the steering wheel . This one had like a small tiny crevice that was even too small for my hand. Yeah, it’s a weird design thing that always gets my attention.
- One of the upgrade options is an Umbrella holder for $355. Umm. That seems like a lot. And in Colorado where the sun shines 340+ days a year? No need!
- Fuel economy is… let’s call it mature. But honestly, if I wanted a hybrid, I’d go buy a sensible shoe and call it a day. This ride isn’t for guilt-tripping — it’s for glory cruising.
Final Verdict:
The 2025 QX80 Autograph delivers surprising punch and smooth performance for such a large SUV, especially with its twin-turbo V6 and slick 9-speed auto. On highways, it’s serene and refined. Around town, its weight and frame can feel chunky.
If you want a vehicle that makes an entrance, takes you places in style, and makes no apologies for being a little extra… the 2025 QX80 Autograph might just be your next power move.
Zombie Apocalypse Rating:
Great for the short term before shit hits the fan. With a combined MPG of 17, it’s not practical in the long run but it’s great as a bug-out vehicle if you want to escape in luxury!
Social Responsibility Rating:
Parent company Nissan’s lobbying isn’t overtly aligned with one political party. It’s focused on maintaining favorable trade and tax positions regardless of which party holds power, working with both Republican- and Democrat-led administrations . Not sure how I feel about that in light of the current regime because, ya know, PICK A LANE!
