The Infiniti QX80 (Z62), specifically the 5.6-liter V8 model with all-wheel drive and an automatic transmission, represents a significant offering in the full-size luxury SUV segment. Produced from 2014 to 2017, this generation QX80 aimed to provide a blend of robust performance, spaciousness, and luxury features, primarily targeting the North American market. It was positioned as Infiniti’s flagship SUV, competing with established rivals like the Cadillac Escalade, Lincoln Navigator, and Lexus LX. This variant, with its substantial engine and standard AWD, occupied the top tier of the QX80 lineup during its production run.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Infiniti |
| Model | QX80 |
| Generation | QX80 (Z62) |
| Type (Engine) | 5.6 V8 (405 Hp) AWD 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 Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| 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
The heart of the QX80 is the VK56VD 5.6-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine is a robust and relatively simple design, eschewing forced induction in favor of large displacement and a traditional pushrod valvetrain. It features direct fuel injection, contributing to improved efficiency and power delivery. The engine produces 405 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 413 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. The seven-speed automatic transmission, sourced from New Venture Gear (a division of Chrysler), is designed to handle the engine’s substantial torque output. While not the most technologically advanced transmission available at the time, it proved to be durable and reliable. The transmission features a conventional torque converter and offers manual shift control, though it’s primarily geared towards smooth, comfortable operation.
Driving Characteristics
The QX80 5.6L Automatic delivers a driving experience focused on comfort and capability rather than outright sportiness. Acceleration is brisk, with a 0-60 mph time of around 7.1 seconds. The engine provides ample low-end torque, making it well-suited for towing and hauling. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly, but can sometimes feel hesitant during quick acceleration. The all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction in various weather conditions, but the QX80 is primarily a rear-biased system. Compared to potential lower trims, the 5.6L engine offers a significant performance advantage, making it the preferred choice for those prioritizing power and towing capacity. The ride quality is plush, thanks to the independent suspension and generous tire sidewalls.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The QX80 5.6L AWD Automatic typically came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including 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 rear-seat DVD player, a power-folding third-row seat, and a hydraulic body motion control system. Interior color schemes were generally conservative, with options for beige, black, and gray leather. The dashboard layout was functional and well-appointed, with a focus on ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The QX80 utilizes a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The suspension consists of independent double-wishbone suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. Ventilated disc brakes are standard on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. The steering is power-assisted and provides a comfortable, if somewhat detached, feel. The QX80’s substantial weight (around 6,173 lbs) contributes to its stable handling, but also limits its agility.
Market Reception & Comparison
The QX80 5.6L 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 the base QX80 models, the 5.6L variant offered a significant performance upgrade, but at a higher price point. It also offered a more refined driving experience compared to some of its competitors, such as the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the infotainment system.
Legacy
The Infiniti QX80 5.6L Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, with many examples still on the road today. The VK56VD engine is known for its durability, and the seven-speed automatic transmission has also held up well over time. In the used car market, these QX80s command reasonable prices, reflecting their age and mileage. They remain a popular choice for buyers seeking a large, luxurious SUV with ample space and towing capacity. While newer QX80 models have addressed some of the earlier generation’s shortcomings, the Z62 remains a capable and comfortable vehicle, representing a significant chapter in Infiniti’s SUV history.
