Supply begins this summer season
Japanese carmaker Infiniti has launched the 2026 QX80, introducing a brand new Sport grade in a transfer to broaden its enchantment inside the aggressive full-size luxurious SUV phase.
The up to date mannequin will start reaching dealerships globally, together with in Arabian Gulf markets, by late summer season 2025.
Costs will begin from $83,750, with the top-tier Autograph grade priced at $111,500, excluding vacation spot fees.
The 2026 QX80 retains the platform launched in final 12 months’s redesign, however the newly added Sport grade brings a extra aggressive exterior and up to date cabin supplies. The SUV incorporates a restyled entrance finish, darkish chrome detailing, and unique 22-inch wheels. Inside, the Sport trim features a darkish blue inside, open-pore wooden accents and perforated leather-based seating. Although the visible adjustments are vital, the car’s efficiency specs stay constant throughout most grades.
The identical 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged V6 engine powers all QX80 fashions, paired with a nine-speed automated transmission. The engine, generally known as the VR35DDTT, replaces the older V8 and goals to strike a steadiness between energy and gasoline effectivity. Whereas official regional gasoline consumption knowledge isn’t but obtainable, Infiniti claims improved efficiency over the earlier technology.
The QX80 arrives in Center Japanese markets, notably the UAE and Saudi Arabia, markets that proceed to point out sturdy demand for big, luxurious SUVs. In line with figures from Statista, SUV gross sales within the GCC are projected to achieve over 560,000 items yearly by 2026, up from roughly 430,000 in 2022. Excessive-income households, street infrastructure and off-road driving tradition have all contributed to this development.
Gulf consumers specifically have proven a choice for premium SUVs providing each off-road functionality and concrete consolation. Manufacturers equivalent to Lexus, Cadillac, and Mercedes-Benz proceed to compete for market share, and Infiniti’s newest replace seems geared toward sustaining relevance on this phase.
In a market the place visible distinction and experience consolation are key differentiators, the QX80 Sport’s darker aesthetic might enchantment to prospects searching for an understated but high-end look.
The car is obtainable in 4 grades: Pure, Luxe, Sport and Autograph. All variants come geared up with twin 14.3-inch digital shows, Google built-in apps, a Klipsch premium audio system, and ProPILOT Help – Infiniti’s semi-autonomous driving expertise.
Superior options like a head-up show, climate-controlled seating, and biometric cooling can be found in greater trims. Massaging seats at the moment are prolonged to the second row within the Autograph grade, reflecting rising client expectations for rear-seat luxurious.
Regardless of the excessive base value, customary options throughout all trims counsel the QX80 is positioned to compete with different massive SUVs such because the BMW X7, Mercedes GLS, and the Lexus LX600. The addition of Google companies and over-the-air software program updates signifies a push to modernise Infiniti’s tech providing in a quickly evolving phase.
Within the UAE, luxury SUVs make up a sizeable portion of complete new automotive gross sales, with shoppers prioritising area, security and expertise. Analysts counsel that options like remote-control rear seats, 3D surround-view monitoring and second-row HVAC controls may affect purchaser choices in high-end markets.
Robust dealership networks in Dubai and Abu Dhabi have supported Infiniti’s presence within the area. Nonetheless, the model continues to face challenges from German and Korean opponents providing more and more tech-focused options. The QX80, notably in its Sport grade, seems geared toward reasserting the model’s luxurious credentials.
The 2026 QX80 will likely be obtainable in colors together with Mineral Black, Radiant White, Grand Blue and Dynamic Steel, with chosen fashions providing two-tone paint choices. Vacation spot and dealing with charges for all trims are set at $2,190.
Infiniti has not disclosed manufacturing numbers or market allocation by area. Nevertheless, given the Center East’s constant urge for food for high-end SUVs, native dealerships are anticipated to obtain early deliveries forward of broader international distribution.
Search engine visitors associated to full-size SUVs, luxurious SUVs within the UAE, and 2026 automotive releases has risen in current months, reflecting sustained client curiosity in premium automobiles throughout the area.
Picture: The 2026 QX80 retains the platform launched in final 12 months’s redesign, however the newly added Sport grade brings a extra aggressive exterior and up to date cabin supplies. Credit score: Infiniti