The Infiniti QX80 (Z62, facelifted in 2017) with the 5.6-liter V8 engine producing 400 horsepower and paired with an automatic transmission represents the top-tier offering in Infiniti’s full-size luxury SUV lineup. Produced from 2017 through 2024, this iteration of the QX80 built upon the foundation of the original Z62 platform introduced in 2010, receiving significant cosmetic and technological updates to remain competitive in the demanding luxury SUV segment. This particular configuration – the 5.6L V8 with all-wheel drive and automatic transmission – consistently served as the flagship model, emphasizing power, capability, and a premium driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Infiniti |
| Model | QX80 |
| Generation | QX80 (Z62, facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | 5.6 V8 (400 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7-8 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 18 l/100 km (13.1 US mpg, 15.7 UK mpg, 5.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 12.3 l/100 km (19.1 US mpg, 23 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 15.6 l/100 km (15.1 US mpg, 18.1 UK mpg, 6.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.7 kg/Hp, 149.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm, 209.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 400 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 72 Hp/l |
| Torque | 560 Nm @ 4000 rpm (413.03 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 6000 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 | 11.2:1 |
| 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 | 16.2 l (17.12 US qt | 14.25 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2671 kg (5888.55 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3402 kg (7500.13 lbs.) |
| Max load | 731 kg (1611.58 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 470 l (16.6 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2693 l (95.1 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 98 l (25.89 US gal | 21.56 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3856 kg (8501.02 lbs.) |
| Length | 5339 mm (210.2 in.) |
| Width | 2029 mm (79.88 in.) |
| Height | 1925 mm (75.79 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3076 mm (121.1 in.) |
| Front track | 1715 mm (67.52 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1725 mm (67.91 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 234 mm (9.21 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.36 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.5 m (41.01 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 20.9° |
| Departure angle | 22.3° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 20.7° |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 275/60 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.0J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the QX80 is the VK56VD 5.6-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine. This engine, a member of Nissan’s VK engine family, features direct fuel injection, a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, and a relatively high 11.2:1 compression ratio. The direct injection system optimizes fuel delivery for improved efficiency and power output. The VK56VD is known for its smooth power delivery and robust construction. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the chassis. The seven-speed automatic transmission, sourced from a collaboration between Nissan and Jatco, is designed to handle the engine’s substantial torque. This transmission features adaptive shift control, adjusting shift points based on driving conditions and driver input. While not the most technologically advanced transmission on the market, it prioritizes durability and smooth operation.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.6L V8 and seven-speed automatic combination in the QX80 delivers a confident and capable driving experience. While not particularly fuel-efficient (EPA estimates around 14 mpg combined), the powertrain provides ample power for accelerating and towing. The automatic transmission is tuned for comfort, with smooth shifts and a focus on minimizing harshness. Compared to potential lower-trim levels (had they been offered with smaller engines), this configuration offers significantly more power and a more refined driving experience. The substantial weight of the QX80 (over 5,800 pounds) is noticeable, but the V8 provides enough torque to overcome this, making it a capable hauler. The all-wheel-drive system enhances traction in various conditions, providing added stability and confidence.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 5.6L V8 AWD automatic QX80 typically came standard with a high level of equipment. This included leather upholstery, tri-zone automatic climate control, a premium Bose audio system, a navigation system, and a suite of advanced safety features such as blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Optional extras included rear-seat entertainment systems, a power moonroof, and upgraded interior trim packages. The QX80 aimed for a luxurious experience, and the 5.6L trim level included many features as standard that were optional or unavailable on lower trims.
Chassis & Braking
The QX80 utilizes a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The suspension consists of double wishbones at both the front and rear, tuned for a comfortable ride. Ventilated disc brakes are used on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. The steering system is a rack-and-pinion setup with electric power assistance. The QX80’s substantial weight necessitates a robust braking system, and the ventilated discs provide consistent performance even under demanding conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Infiniti QX80, particularly with the 5.6L V8, was generally well-received by critics for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and powerful engine. However, its fuel economy was often criticized as being poor compared to competitors. Compared to other luxury SUVs like the Cadillac Escalade or Lincoln Navigator, the QX80 offered a slightly more understated design and a focus on a comfortable, rather than overtly flashy, driving experience. Reliability was generally considered good, although the complexity of the engine and its associated systems meant that maintenance costs could be higher than some competitors.
Legacy
The 2017-2024 Infiniti QX80 5.6L V8 AWD automatic has established a reputation as a reliable and capable luxury SUV. On the used car market, these models hold their value relatively well, particularly those in good condition with a well-maintained service history. The VK56VD engine, while not known for being particularly fuel-efficient, is considered a durable and long-lasting powerplant. The QX80’s body-on-frame construction and powerful V8 engine continue to appeal to buyers seeking a traditional, truck-based luxury SUV experience.
