2026 Infiniti QX80 Sport: A Bold Statement in the Luxury SUV Segment

The 2026 Infiniti QX80 emerges as a formidable contender in the full-size luxury SUV market, building upon the significant redesign introduced in the previous model year. With the introduction of the new "Sport" trim, Infiniti aims to inject a dose of aggressive styling and exclusive luxury features into its flagship model, creating a distinct and compelling option for discerning buyers. While it may not offer a true performance upgrade over other trims, the QX80 Sport's focus on aesthetics and enhanced cabin amenities makes it a noteworthy addition to the lineup.

Design and Styling: A Shift to Aggressive Sophistication

The most prominent feature of the 2026 QX80 Sport is its unique visual identity. Moving beyond the traditional chrome-heavy luxury look, the Sport trim embraces a more modern and assertive aesthetic. The exterior is defined by a "blacked-out" treatment, with dark chrome accents replacing the brightwork on the grille, window surrounds, mirror caps, and emblems. The front fascia is restyled with a unique grille mesh and a more aggressive bumper, while the SUV rides on exclusive 22-inch wheels with a distinct finish. The design is bold and commanding, giving the QX80 a more dynamic presence on the road.

Inside, the QX80 Sport continues the theme of refined boldness. The cabin features an exclusive "Dusk Blue" color scheme, accented by dark matte chrome and open-pore wood trim. The seats are upholstered in semi-aniline leather with unique diamond-pattern perforations and black/blue inserts, creating a sophisticated and upscale ambiance. The overall effect is a cohesive and deliberate design, setting the Sport trim apart from its siblings. The luxurious interior is further enhanced by 64-color ambient lighting and a panoramic moonroof, adding to the feeling of spaciousness and high-end craftsmanship.

Performance and Ride Quality: Power and Presence

Under the hood, all 2026 QX80 models, including the Sport, are powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine. This powerplant generates a robust 450 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, a significant increase over the previous generation's V8. Paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive on the Sport trim, the engine provides brisk acceleration for such a large vehicle. While it may not be a true "sport" performance vehicle, it delivers ample power for daily driving and highway cruising. The QX80's towing capacity remains impressive at 8,500 pounds, a testament to its truck-based, body-on-frame construction.

A key highlight of the QX80's mechanicals is the standard Electronic Air Suspension and Dynamic Digital Suspension on the Luxe, Sport, and Autograph trims. This system is designed to provide a smooth and comfortable ride, automatically adjusting to road conditions. However, some reviews note that while the air suspension does a good job of controlling body motions, the ride can still feel a bit stiff or jarring on rougher pavement, a common characteristic for large, truck-based SUVs. The QX80 is more about confident cruising and luxurious isolation than agile handling.

Interior and Technology: A Sanctuary of Comfort

The interior of the 2026 QX80 is a masterclass in modern luxury. The cabin is spacious and quiet, with rich materials and an array of high-tech features. The QX80 Sport comes standard with the full suite of amenities found in the Luxe trim and adds several exclusive features. The dual 14.3-inch "Monolith" displays—one for the digital gauge cluster and one for the infotainment system—are a technological centerpiece. The infotainment system includes Google Built-in, providing seamless access to Google Maps, Assistant, and other applications. A separate 9-inch touchscreen below the main display controls climate functions, keeping essential controls within easy reach.

For comfort, the QX80 Sport offers a truly premium experience. The front seats are not only heated and ventilated but also include a massaging function. A new "Biometric Cooling" system, a segment-first feature, uses an infrared sensor to detect when a second-row passenger is hot and adjusts the temperature and airflow accordingly. The second-row captain's chairs provide excellent comfort and legroom, and surprisingly, the third row is also roomy enough to accommodate adults. The audio experience is elevated by a standard 24-speaker Klipsch Reference Premiere system, which includes a unique "Individual Audio" feature that allows the driver to hear specific audio elements, such as navigation directions, from their seat alone.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Infiniti has equipped the 2026 QX80 with a comprehensive suite of standard safety and driver-assistance features. These include automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Sport trim features ProPILOT Assist 1.1, a hands-on system that combines adaptive cruise control and lane centering. However, it's worth noting that the more advanced ProPILOT Assist 2.1, which offers hands-free highway driving, is exclusive to the top-tier Autograph trim.

Specifications and Pricing

The 2026 Infiniti QX80 Sport is positioned as the second-highest trim level, replacing the previous Sensory model. Its pricing reflects its upscale positioning and extensive feature list.

• Engine: 3.5L twin-turbocharged V6

• Horsepower: 450 hp

• Torque: 516 lb-ft

• Transmission: 9-speed automatic

• Drivetrain: All-wheel drive (standard on Sport trim)

• Towing Capacity: 8,500 lbs

• Suspension: Electronic Air Suspension and Dynamic Digital Suspension

• Infotainment: Dual 14.3-inch displays with Google Built-in, 9-inch climate control screen

• Audio: 24-speaker Klipsch Reference Premiere system

• Starting MSRP (U.S.): $102,645 (includes destination charge)

Conclusion

The 2026 Infiniti QX80 Sport is a compelling package that successfully merges bold styling with a truly luxurious and feature-rich interior. While it doesn't add any performance enhancements, its exclusive aesthetic and comprehensive list of amenities—from the advanced audio system to the massaging seats and biometric cooling—justify its place as a premium offering. It presents a strong case for buyers who desire a high-end, three-row SUV that makes a powerful visual statement without compromising on comfort or technology. While the ride quality may not be as serene as some competitors, the QX80 Sport remains a confident and capable vehicle, offering a distinctive alternative to the more established players in the segment. It’s an article of luxury and a showcase of Infiniti’s renewed focus on design and cabin experience.