The Infiniti QX80 (Z62), specifically equipped with the 5.6-liter V8 engine and a seven-speed automatic transmission, represents a significant offering in the full-size luxury SUV segment. Produced from 2014 to 2017, this variant occupied the top echelon of the QX80 lineup, providing a blend of powerful performance, spaciousness, and premium features. The Z62 generation marked a substantial departure from its predecessor, the QX56, with a more refined design and enhanced capabilities aimed at competing with established American and European luxury SUVs.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Infiniti |
| Model | QX80 |
| Generation | QX80 (Z62) |
| Type (Engine) | 5.6 V8 (405 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7-8 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 20.6 l/100 km (11.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11 l/100 km (21.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 14.5 l/100 km (16.2 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 373 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 405 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Torque | 560 Nm @ 4000 rpm (413.03 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | VK56VD |
| Engine displacement | 5552 cm3 (338.8 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 98 mm (3.86 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 14.9 l (15.74 US qt | 13.11 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2800 kg (6172.94 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3400 kg (7495.72 lbs.) |
| Max load | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 470 l (16.6 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2693 l (95.1 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 100 l (26.42 US gal | 22 UK gal) |
| Length | 5305 mm (208.86 in.) |
| Width | 2030 mm (79.92 in.) |
| Height | 1925 mm (75.79 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3075 mm (121.06 in.) |
| Front track | 1715 mm (67.52 in.) |
| Rear track | 1725 mm (67.91 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 235 mm (9.25 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.37 |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.6 m (41.34 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 7 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 275/50 R22 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 22 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the QX80 5.6 V8 Automatic lies the VK56VD engine, a 5.6-liter naturally aspirated V8. This engine is a descendant of Nissan’s long-running VK engine family, known for its durability and smooth power delivery. The VK56VD features direct fuel injection, a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, and a compression ratio of 11.5:1. These features contribute to its respectable 405 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 413 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine’s longitudinal mounting and rear-wheel-drive configuration are traditional for body-on-frame SUVs. The seven-speed automatic transmission, sourced from a collaboration between Nissan and Jatco, was chosen for its balance of responsiveness and efficiency. It features adaptive shift control, adjusting shift points based on driving conditions and throttle input.
Driving Characteristics
The QX80 5.6 V8 Automatic delivers a comfortable and confident driving experience. While not a sports SUV, the engine provides ample power for effortless acceleration and towing. The 0-60 mph time of around 7.1 seconds is respectable for a vehicle of this size and weight. The seven-speed automatic transmission generally shifts smoothly, although it can sometimes feel hesitant during quick downshifts. The rear-wheel-drive setup contributes to a balanced feel, and the independent suspension provides a reasonably comfortable ride, even on uneven surfaces. Compared to the lower-trim QX80 models with smaller engines, the 5.6 V8 offers a significantly more refined and powerful driving experience, particularly when fully loaded or towing a trailer.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The QX80 5.6 V8 Automatic typically came standard with a comprehensive list of features, befitting its position as the flagship trim. These included leather upholstery, tri-zone automatic climate control, a premium Bose audio system, a navigation system, and a rear-seat entertainment system. Standard safety features included blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded leather, and various appearance packages. The interior design emphasized luxury and spaciousness, with seating for seven or eight passengers depending on the configuration.
Chassis & Braking
The QX80 utilizes a traditional body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. It features an independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear, designed to provide a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for a vehicle of this weight. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic brake-force distribution are standard features. The steering is rack-and-pinion with power assistance, offering a reasonably precise and responsive feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Infiniti QX80 5.6 V8 Automatic was generally well-received by critics, who praised its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and powerful engine. However, its fuel economy was a common criticism, with combined fuel consumption averaging around 16.2 US mpg. Compared to other full-size luxury SUVs like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator, the QX80 offered a more understated design and a slightly more focused driving experience. The Escalade and Navigator often prioritized bolder styling and more advanced technology features. The QX80’s reliability was generally considered good, although some owners reported minor issues with the infotainment system.
Legacy
The Infiniti QX80 5.6 V8 Automatic remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly for buyers seeking a spacious, comfortable, and capable luxury SUV. The VK56VD engine is known for its durability, and with proper maintenance, it can provide many years of reliable service. While fuel economy is a concern, the QX80’s overall value proposition and luxurious features continue to appeal to a wide range of buyers. The Z62 generation QX80 laid the groundwork for the current model, which continues to build on its predecessor’s strengths while incorporating more modern technology and features.
