2025 INFINITI QX80 vs 2025 Cadillac Escalade

The luxury full-size SUV segment is fiercely competitive, with automakers constantly trying to outdo each other in performance, features, and design. The completely redesigned 2025 INFINITI QX80 and the refreshed 2025 Cadillac Escalade are top contenders in this segment. Both offer exceptional luxury and performance, making the choice between them challenging. A comparison of these two prestigious offerings will help you understand the key differences between them and what makes each unique.

Performance and Powertrains

The QX80 boasts a new twin-turbo 3.5-liter V-6 engine, making an impressive 450 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain works with a new nine-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly and quickly. The air-spring suspension system, standard on all but the base Pure trim, provides excellent body control and a comfortable ride.

Cadillac has simplified the Escalade’s powertrain lineup by making the 6.2-liter V-8 the standard offering. It produces less power and torque, at 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft, respectively. Although the Escalade’s 10-speed automatic transmission comes standard and its adaptive air suspension system improves ride quality, its lower engine power may make it less desirable than the QX80.

Fuel Economy

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 combines power and efficiency with its twin-turbo V-6 engine. It achieves an EPA-estimated 16 mpg city, 20 mpg highway, and 18 mpg combined with two-wheel drive. Even with four-wheel drive (4WD), the INFINITI QX80 maintains respectable efficiency at 16 mpg city, 19 mpg highway, and 17 mpg combined, highlighting its manufacturer’s ability to balance performance and fuel economy.

While official 2025 ratings for the Cadillac Escalade are pending, the previous year’s model, with its V-8 engine, delivered lower efficiency numbers. With rear-wheel drive, it managed just 14 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway, dropping to 14 mpg in the city and 18 mpg on the highway with 4WD. The QX80 features a more efficient powertrain that increases horsepower and significantly improves fuel efficiency, making it a more economical choice for your daily drives without compromising performance or luxury.

Exterior Design Elements

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 stands out with its bold and modern exterior styling. The flush door handles and new grille design give the vehicle a sleek and contemporary look. INFINITI has redesigned the QX80’s LED lighting elements, and the new Dynamic Metal exterior paint option adds to the model’s premium presence. The overall design exudes an air of sophistication and luxury.

Cadillac has kept up with the QX80 with significant changes to the Escalade’s exterior. The front end features three distinct grille designs and an illuminated front crest. New color options, including Aegean Stone and Deep Sea Metallic, add to the model’s commanding presence. Although the Escalade has improved in design, it still falls slightly short compared to the QX80’s modern and refined aesthetic.

Luxury Amenities and Convenience Features  

The luxury SUV segment is all about offering the best creature comforts and convenience features, and the 2025 INFINITI QX80’s high-end interior design doesn’t disappoint. The two 14.3-inch displays give off a futuristic vibe, while the premium materials throughout the cabin exude luxury and sophistication. Advanced comfort features showcase the QX80’s credentials for providing a luxurious driving experience in Hoffman Estates and beyond. These amenities include massage functions for first- and second-row seats in higher trims, heated third-row seats, and the innovative Biometric Cooling system, which automatically adjusts climate control for your rear passengers.

Cadillac’s inclusion of top-of-the-line luxury amenities in the Escalade shows it’s also gone above and beyond. The 55-inch curved OLED display is a standout feature, dominating the dashboard with its stunning visuals. The use of genuine leather in higher trims and an impressive 19-speaker audio system, upgradable to 36 speakers in the Platinum models, add to the Escalade’s luxurious appeal. While both vehicles excel in this category, the QX80’s attention to detail and innovative features, particularly the Biometric Cooling system, give it an edge over the Escalade.

Safety Features and Driver-Assistance Technologies

The 2025 QX80 has a long list of safety and driver-assistance features. INFINITI’s ProPILOT Assist 2.1 system, available on higher trims, enables hands-free driving in certain conditions. The QX80’s comprehensive safety package includes advanced technology such as blind-spot warning with brake intervention and a sophisticated surround-view camera system.

Cadillac’s Super Cruise system, now standard across the Escalade lineup, offers capabilities similar to the QX80’s ProPILOT Assist 2.1. Other safety features include lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and night vision. Both vehicles provide a range of advanced driver assistance technologies that add to the overall luxury and safety of the driving experience, making them top choices, particularly if you have a family.

Pricing and Value Proposition

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 starts at $82,450 MSRP, while the Cadillac Escalade has a base price of  $89,590. Placing these prices alongside the performance, luxury features, and advanced safety technologies that come standard on the QX80 compared to the Escalade, the former offers you better value. The INFINITI brand also delivers exceptional customer service and reliability, further adding to the QX80’s overall value proposition.

Which Luxury SUV Is the Better Choice?

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 and Cadillac Escalade are top contenders in the luxury SUV segment, offering powerful performance, deluxe amenities, advanced safety technologies, and bold design elements. Although the choice between these two vehicles will come down to your preferences and priorities, the QX80 edges out the competition with its innovative features, superior fuel efficiency, and better value proposition for its price point.

Test-Drive the 2025 QX80 at INFINITI of Hoffman Estates

The extensive inventory of vehicles at our dealership in Hoffman Estates, Illinois, includes new and preowned QX80 models, giving you various options. We also offer attractive financing deals and top-notch service to ensure a seamless car buying experience. To truly experience the excellence of the 2025 INFINITI QX80, contact us today to schedule a test-drive. Feel free to ask about our current specials and promotions. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff is ready to help you find your perfect luxury SUV.