Lexus vs. Infiniti – LAP LAND

Lexus vs. Infiniti

LAP LAND

Baby Boomers warmly recall when Nissan beat the Europeans at their own game with innovative technology and exhilarating performance for less money. However, like many other promises of the Gilded Age, those advantages are blowing in the wind today.

Today, the company once known as Datsun brings out new products by shuffling through the parts bin and reconfiguring old tech into new models. However, competitors continue to innovate and evolve, creating significant marketing advantages that prompt legitimate questions about Nissan’s viability. 

The difference is apparent when comparing full-size SUVs from Nissan and Toyota. Nissan has the Armada ($56,520 – $76,990) and an upscale version, the Infiniti QX80 ($82,450 – $109,900). Toyota has two: the Land Cruiser ($56,700 – $62,450) and the slightly larger Sequoia ($62,245 – $83,915). The Lexus flavors of those are the GX ($63,935 – $80,400) and LX ($106,850 – $141,350).

All these price points are pre-tariffs, and we will not guess how those will affect this market niche. Surplus speculation already abounds. The only one of those six assembled in North America is the Sequoia; the rest come from Japan.

After recent forays deep into the Ouachita Mountains, through twisting byways and along treacherous and rocky forest roads – as well as a week of daily use – we returned deeply impressed with the 2025 Lexus GX 550’s comfort, build quality, and capabilities. 

The Infiniti QX80: Not so much. Even if the $109,900 QX80 were the same price as the $64,000 Lexus, we think the Toyota offshoot would still be the preferred venue for family adventures. Why? A refined power train delivers better fuel economy, and a high-strength modern chassis provides a better ride, more certain handling, and superior off-road capabilities. 

The Land Cruiser was Toyota’s original SUV, and the latest Lexus iteration checks all the boxes: legendary capability, the latest advanced technology, safety technology, and premium touches for the driver and passengers. It pays tribute to the model’s heritage.

It looks better, too. In front, the QX80 looks like an old boxer’s nose, and the rear haunches remind one of a Queen song about those who make the rocking world go round.

Fair comparison?

Based on their price points, these two vehicles should not be comparable; still, the less expensive one fares much better when placed side by side. 

This happens when one company practices Kaizen, a philosophy that focuses on making small, incremental changes to improve processes, efficiency, and quality over time, and the other focuses on paying quarterly dividends at the expense of product development.

The QX80 and GX 550 cater to distinct buyer demographics. The Lexus, with its rugged durability and turbocharged powertrain, appeals to younger buyers who prioritize off-road capability, reliability, and lower operating costs. Its more affordable price point and efficient technology make it a practical choice for outdoor enthusiasts and families. 

In contrast, the QX80 targets affluent individuals (40–60 years old) with household incomes exceeding $250,000, offering a luxurious, tech-forward experience focusing on comfort and refinement. It does not deliver. 

The QX80’s gauges and switchgear feel like something assembled by a committee rather than reflecting a holistic design. They are less intuitive than modern vehicles and do not align with current ergonomic trends.

Cabins

The QX80 and GX 550 cater to distinct buyer preferences through their cabin designs.

The QX80 emphasizes luxury, featuring premium materials such as semi-aniline leather and real wood trim. Assembly, however, is a hodge-podge. We found unsnapped pieces on the a-pillars and uneven gaps.

The Infiniti’s three-row seating accommodates up to eight passengers, with ample legroom even in the third row. Cargo space measures 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 49.6 cubic feet with the third row folded and 95.1 cubic feet with both rear rows down. 

The Lexus, while (typically) less opulent, prioritizes durability with high-quality, rugged materials. It seats up to seven, with 10 cubic feet behind the third row, 40 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 77 cubic feet with both rear rows down. Both models feature advanced digital screens: the QX80 boasts dual 12.3-inch displays, while the Lexus offers a 14-inch touchscreen. Wireless charging ports and USB-C outlets are standard in both, with the QX80 adding a rear-seat entertainment system as an option.

Powertrains

The Lexus GX 550 and Infiniti QX80 have distinct powertrain setups, fuel economy, and towing capacities. The QX80 is old-school, raw power, while the Lexus employs twin turbochargers to boost its V6:

Engine

• GX 550: Equipped with a 3.5L V6 Turbo engine, producing 349 horsepower.
• QX80: Features a 5.6L DOHC V8 engine, delivering 400 horsepower.

Fuel Economy

• GX 550: 15 MPG city / 21 MPG highway. 
• QX80: Falls behind with 16 MPG city / 20 MPG highway. 

Towing Capacity

• GX 550: Its 9,100 pounds of towing capacity will pull just about anything you want to tow.
• QX80: Slightly lower towing capacity at 8,500 lbs.

Ride and Handling

The QX80 delivers a refined, comfortable ride, aided by its adaptive air suspension and rear-wheel steering. Its body-on-frame construction ensures stability, though it leans toward on-road comfort over off-road prowess. On mountain highways, the truck feels top-heavy.

The GX 550 excels off-road, featuring a robust chassis, multi-terrain select system, and crawl control. Its Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (enhances articulation on uneven terrain. The GX 550’s locking differentials and higher ground clearance make it superior for rugged adventures. On highways, the Lexus feels well-planted.

Safety

Both vehicles earn top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA. Standard driver-assist features include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. 

The QX80 adds ProPILOT Assist, a semi-autonomous driving system, while the Land Cruiser includes a multi-terrain monitor for off-road visibility.

Reliability

The Lexus has a compelling reputation for reliability, with Toyota’s proven record for durability. Predicted reliability scores from Consumer Reports and J.D. Power are high. 

The QX80, while improved, has faced criticism for past electrical issues. Both models have a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. 

Depreciation is steeper for the QX80, reflecting Infiniti’s lower resale value than Lexus.

Bottom line

The 2025 Lexus GX 550 and Infiniti QX80 serve different buyer needs, with the GX 550’s lower price point, efficiency, and off-road prowess appealing to younger, adventure-oriented buyers and the QX80’s luxury and refinement attracting more affluent, comfort-focused consumers. 

The GX 550’s modern technology and lower operating costs make it a standout choice for those prioritizing value and versatility, and it comes with more cache.