Overview

Obvious to anybody who drives on a daily basis: More than 55 per cent of all vehicle sales in Canada are now sport-utes or crossovers. And while the majority of these sales fall into the small-to-medium-size categories, there are those who feel the need to ply highways and byways in full-sized, three-row bruisers that haul both people and goods as well as tow the trailers that carry all manner of recreational and/or work paraphernalia.

One of the newest players in this segment is Jeep’s Wagoneer, parent company Stellantis resurrecting the nameplate last year after a nearly 30-year absence. Over its 29-year production history, from 1963 to 1992, the original, full-size, body-on-frame Wagoneer — owned during its lifespan by Kaiser, American Motors and finally Chrysler — was, externally at least, little changed. With the new model, “the iconic Wagoneer returns to redefine North American prestige with sophisticated amenities, the latest technology and an unparalleled ownership experience.”

android, 2022 infiniti qx80 or wagoneer: which model and trim should you buy?

2022 Wagoneer Series II Photo by Brian Harper

android, 2022 infiniti qx80 or wagoneer: which model and trim should you buy?

2022 Wagoneer Series II Photo by Brian Harper

android, 2022 infiniti qx80 or wagoneer: which model and trim should you buy?

2022 Wagoneer Series II Photo by Brian Harper

android, 2022 infiniti qx80 or wagoneer: which model and trim should you buy?

2022 Wagoneer Series II Photo by Brian Harper

android, 2022 infiniti qx80 or wagoneer: which model and trim should you buy?

2022 Wagoneer Series II Photo by Brian Harper

android, 2022 infiniti qx80 or wagoneer: which model and trim should you buy?

2022 Wagoneer Series II Photo by Brian Harper

android, 2022 infiniti qx80 or wagoneer: which model and trim should you buy?

2022 Wagoneer Series II Photo by Brian Harper

android, 2022 infiniti qx80 or wagoneer: which model and trim should you buy?

2022 Wagoneer Series II Photo by Brian Harper

android, 2022 infiniti qx80 or wagoneer: which model and trim should you buy?

2022 Wagoneer Series II Photo by Brian Harper

So, yes, Stellantis clearly sees the Wagoneer as a premium product, a cut above the workaday competition (GM’s Tahoe and Yukon, Ford’s Expedition, et al), while leaving the luxury side of the segment (Cadillac Escalade, BMW X7, Lincoln Navigator, etc.) to the much fancier Grand Wagoneer.

The version up for comparison, the Wagoneer Series II, comes with a serious price tag — a base MSRP of $80,995, $90,485 as tested. So, how does it stack up against another full-sized SUV, one that “exudes luxury from every angle for every passenger.” The Infiniti QX80 is the fancier version of the Nissan Armada. A mature product, this generation has been in production since 2010 — originally as the QX56 — with two significant facelifts (plus a numeric name change) since. Putting aside the fact it’s “a design and engineering masterpiece,” one that is “generously equipped with thoughtful touches,” the flagship body-on-frame QX80 is similarly sized and closely priced, with an MSRP starting at $81,695. The topline QX80 ProActive spares little for its $89,695 sticker, the major upgrades include 22-inch dark-finish alloy wheels, dark chrome exterior accents, a Smart rear-view mirror, Hydraulic Body Motion Control, intelligent cruise control, an “advanced” climate control system, and adaptive front lighting.

Compare these full size SUVs: Jeep Wagoneer, Infiniti QX80, GMC Yukon, and more

There’s less differentiation between the Series I and Series II Wagoneers, the latter gaining 22-inch gloss black wheels, triple-pane panoramic sunroof, black exterior accents, and some interior upgrades. There is also the topline Series III ($86,495), which adds a standard air suspension, beefier Quadra-Tac 4WD system, heated second-row seats and more.

Big, brawny and bulky, both the Wagoneer and QX80 have V8 power to take care of their hauling needs. Wagoneer features a 5.7-litre engine — rated at 392 horsepower and 404 lb-ft of torque —- fitted with an eTorque 48-volt hybrid setup with cylinder deactivation and Variable Cam Timing as standard equipment. An eight-speed automatic transmission sends power to all four wheels through one of three available 4×4 systems: Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II or Quadra-Drive II with active low range. The tester was fitted with Quadra-Trac I, a lightweight single-speed transfer case that is designed to promote fuel economy while improving traction by moving torque to the wheel with the most grip.

android, 2022 infiniti qx80 or wagoneer: which model and trim should you buy?

2022 Infiniti QX80 Photo by Brian Harper

android, 2022 infiniti qx80 or wagoneer: which model and trim should you buy?

2022 Infiniti QX80 Photo by Brian Harper

android, 2022 infiniti qx80 or wagoneer: which model and trim should you buy?

2022 Infiniti QX80 Photo by Brian Harper

android, 2022 infiniti qx80 or wagoneer: which model and trim should you buy?

2022 Infiniti QX80 Photo by Brian Harper

android, 2022 infiniti qx80 or wagoneer: which model and trim should you buy?

2022 Infiniti QX80 Photo by Brian Harper

android, 2022 infiniti qx80 or wagoneer: which model and trim should you buy?

2022 Infiniti QX80 Photo by Brian Harper

android, 2022 infiniti qx80 or wagoneer: which model and trim should you buy?

2022 Infiniti QX80 Photo by Brian Harper

android, 2022 infiniti qx80 or wagoneer: which model and trim should you buy?

2022 Infiniti QX80 Photo by Brian Harper

The QX80 is powered by a 5.6L V8 that makes 400 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque paired to a seven-speed automatic transmission and standard All-Mode Four-Wheel Drive. This system provides three positions (Auto, 4Hi and 4Lo), that can be selected depending on the driving conditions. The 4WD shift switch is used to select the 4WD mode depending on the driving conditions. A 4WD rotary shift switch electronically controls the transfer case operation.

Three reasons to choose the Wagoneer

  1. Fuel economy:Prius-like fuel economy from either of these bruisers is a fantasy. That said, the Wagoneer posts appreciably better city and highway consumption figures than the QX80 — 15.6 L/100 km city and 11.7 L/100 km highway versus 17.8/12.2 for the QX80, according to NRCan. I averaged 12.2 L/100 in the Jeep and 13.8 L/100 in the Infiniti during my time with the sport-brutes. Most of the credit for the Wagoneer’s better fuel economy is attributable to cylinder deactivation; at a steady cruising speed, four of the engine’s eight cylinders will shut down. One other significant point: premium gas is recommended for the QX’s 5.6L V8 while mid-grade 89 octane is recommended for the Wagoneer’s eight-cylinder — and regular 87 octane is acceptable.
  2. Room, and lots of it: The Jeep is bigger externally in length (5,433 mm), wheelbase (3,124 mm) and width (2,124 mm) and only a few millimetres shorter in height. This translates into more stretch-out legroom and shoulder room for passengers occupying any of the three available rows. Total passenger room in the Jeep is 5,074 litres compared to the Infiniti’s 4,319 litres. Ditto cargo capacity. Behind the third row, the Wagoneer boasts 775 litres of room versus the QX80’s 470 litres. With the third row folded, the Wagoneer’s capacity increases to 2,004 litres, the QX80 1,405 litres. And should you feel the urge to pick up a refrigerator or something of similar size, folding the Wagoneer’s second- and third-row seats offers up 3,304 litres of room versus the QX80’s 2,694 litres.
  3. Better and brighter infotainment: Wagoneer is available with 50 inches of total digital display screen area, nearly 45 inches of that spanning the length of the instrument panel. Additionally, an available 10.25-in. passenger screen provides the front passenger with dynamic touchscreen control at their fingertips. The passenger screen has three major functions: Co-Pilot (navigation, device management), entertainment (via HDMI or rear-seat entertainment control) and the ability to view the exterior vehicle cameras. Passenger screens in both the front and rear feature an HDMI plug, which lets occupants connect their phone or tablet, turning the touchscreen into a mirrored extension of their device, allowing internet searches, music and app use to project through the new Uconnect 5 system. Uconnect 5 delivers operating speeds that Stellantis says are five times faster when compared to the previous generation. Meanwhile, the 2022 QX80 has been upgraded with a widescreen, high-definition 12.3-inch Infiniti InTouch display that includes wireless Apple CarPlay and USB-based Android Auto compatibility. Widescreen navigation with lane guidance is also standard, including five-year complimentary access to premium traffic and MapCare. A Wi-Fi hotspot to connect multiple devices is included and a rear-seat entertainment system with twin, eight-inch screens offer on-the-go entertainment.

android, 2022 infiniti qx80 or wagoneer: which model and trim should you buy?

2022 Wagoneer Series II Photo by Brian Harper

Which Version to Choose

While the Wagoneer Series II is certainly well equipped for most family needs, I would pop for the $87,495 Series III. Why? Two things; the Quadra-Lift air suspension that delivers a smoother ride and up to 10 inches of ground clearance, and the much beefier Quadra-Trac II 4×4 system, which comes with standard Selec-Terrain with five settings — Auto, Sport, Rock, Snow and Sand/Mud. The heated second-row seats, available McIntosh 19-speaker entertainment system and head-up display are just bonuses.

Three reasons to choose the QX80

  1. It drives “lighter”: OK, both these behemoths weigh the better part of three tons; actually, the Wagoneer weighs more than three tons — and at 2,808 kilograms it’s 232 kg heavier than the Infiniti. Maybe that explains why the Jeep feels so much more ponderous when driving around town and why, despite significant brakes, feels like it needs even bigger discs and calipers in order to stop with confidence. The Infiniti, a husky SUV on its own, is nonetheless easier to handle at lower speeds.
  2. Traditional luxury: If you’re into a high-tech cabin environment, then the Wagoneer is your jam. But, if you want a better sense of traditional luxury — quilted leather seats and door panels, for instance — the Infiniti has a more regal air about it.
  3. Looks: Once you get beyond its distinctive grille, the Wagoneer is no looker, which, coming from one whose family drove them for more than 20 years, is painful. The new model’s styling was inspired by a box of Kleenex. Hell, the Ford Flex is positively aerodynamic by comparison. The QX80, has a brawny, muscular vibe going for it, the way sport-utes should be. See the road, own the road!

android, 2022 infiniti qx80 or wagoneer: which model and trim should you buy?

2022 Infiniti QX80 Photo by Brian Harper

Which Version to Choose

Infiniti makes it simple; the $81,695 Luxe or the $89,695 ProActive. The Luxe is very well equipped for the price, with such features as semi-aniline leather seats in all three rows, 20-inch alloy wheels, a 12.3-inch InTouch display, climate-controlled front seats, available second-row captain’s chairs that tip up for easier access to the third row, a Bose 17-speaker premium audio system, a power liftgate and a rear-seat entertainment system. The ProActive additions have been previously detailed. If driving long distances is a normal part of your routine, the intelligent cruise control and the Hydraulic Body Motion Control system — which minimizes body lean and smooths out the ride — might be worth the additional coin. Other than that, the Luxe should do the trick.

Conclusion

Let’s get right to it: The Wagoneer is the better all ’round deal. Being much newer than the Infiniti, it comes with all the advantages of newer technology built in. It’s also roomier in all three rows, has more cargo room, delivers better fuel economy on lower grade gasoline, and tows more (10,000 pounds when properly equipped versus the QX80’s 8,500). The QX80, which arguably drivers better and is decidedly more of a looker, is otherwise in need of a complete re-do in order to be competitive in the large luxury segment.

Keyword: 2022 Infiniti QX80 or Wagoneer: Which model and trim should you buy?

CAR'S NEWS RELATED

The Infiniti FX Was The Perfect Performance SUV

2003 Infiniti FX45 Image: Infiniti The performance SUV. The term itself is almost a conundrum; the Sport Utility Vehicle was created as sort of a new age version of the American station wagon, except it’s a vehicle with a higher driving position that can haul and carry more and ...

View more: The Infiniti FX Was The Perfect Performance SUV

2024 Infiniti QX80 Gets Dark Chrome Package, Base Price Climbs To $76,045

The cheapest QX80 is $1,450 more than last year.

View more: 2024 Infiniti QX80 Gets Dark Chrome Package, Base Price Climbs To $76,045

Best reveals from the world’s greatest car show – Photos

Electric Standouts Electric Workhorses Internal Combustion Power Super Specialized and Rare No auto show in the world can compete with the quality of new car debuts during Monterey Car Week in Carmel, California. The annual multi-day festival of all things automotive—classic car concours, product launches, races, auctions, rallies, and plenty of posturing – has replaced the traditional ...

View more: Best reveals from the world’s greatest car show – Photos

Infiniti's QX Monograph Might Be A Preview Of A New QX80

Infiniti QX Monograph Concept Image: Infiniti Infiniti could use some help. The brand’s sales could be better; just 32,286 have been sold so far in 2023. That’s total sales for a brand with six models. Just two of the brand’s models are new. The QX60 entered its second generation ...

View more: Infiniti's QX Monograph Might Be A Preview Of A New QX80

Infiniti QX Monograph Concept Debuts At Pebble Beach, May Preview Next QX80

The full-size SUV concept features the company’s new three-dimensional grille badge.

View more: Infiniti QX Monograph Concept Debuts At Pebble Beach, May Preview Next QX80

Infiniti to Unveil QX Monograph Concept at Pebble Beach

•    Infiniti is set to unveil the QX Monograph, a concept tasked with previewing the brand’s future design direction. If there's one car company that needs to move fast to boost sales and attract new buyers, it's Infiniti. The good news is that we're about to see something new ...

View more: Infiniti to Unveil QX Monograph Concept at Pebble Beach

Infiniti QX Monograph Concept Teased, Debuts August 17 At Pebble Beach

The concept will preview the brand’s design direction.

View more: Infiniti QX Monograph Concept Teased, Debuts August 17 At Pebble Beach

See Kia Stinger GT Drag Race Infiniti Q50 Red Sport In Close Sedan Showdown

There was only a 0.2-second difference in their quarter-mile times.

View more: See Kia Stinger GT Drag Race Infiniti Q50 Red Sport In Close Sedan Showdown

Nissan may be planning four US-built EV models

Infiniti Teases Electric Cars Intended To Boost Future Sales

Infiniti Gets a New Logo

Infiniti Aims to Reinvent Brand Image, Dealerships, Even… Smell?

Cheapest armoured car in South Africa

Built For SEMA, Debuted At Elmia: Magass Design’s Infiniti G37 Coupe

Next-Gen Infiniti QX80 Spied Testing In Michigan

Nissan Rogue, Pathfinder and Infiniti QX60 Recalled for Dangerous Seats

Reminder: Do Not Sit On an Infiniti Doing Donuts

Patrol buddies? This could be the 2024 Nissan Patrol's luxury twin as the Toyota LandCruiser rival's reveal approaches

This Infiniti G35 with a Vaydor Body Kit Is Selling for $110,000

The Infiniti QX4 Was the Brand's First Foray Into Luxury SUVs

OTHER CAR NEWS

; Top List in the World https://www.pinterest.com/newstopcar/pins/
Top Best Sushi Restaurants in SeoulTop Best Caribbean HoneymoonsTop Most Beautiful Islands in PeruTop Best Outdoor Grill BrandsTop Best Global Seafood RestaurantsTop Foods to Boost Your Immune SystemTop Best Foods to Fight HemorrhoidsTop Foods That Pack More Potassium Than a BananaTop Best Healthy Foods to Gain Weight FastTop Best Cosmetic Brands in the U.STop Best Destinations for Food Lovers in EuropeTop Best Foods High in Vitamin ATop Best Foods to Lower Your Blood SugarTop Best Things to Do in LouisianaTop Best Cities to Visit in New YorkTop Best Makeup Addresses In PennsylvaniaTop Reasons to Visit NorwayTop Most Beautiful Islands In The WorldTop Best Law Universities in the WorldTop Richest Sportsmen In The WorldTop Biggest Aquariums In The WorldTop Best Peruvian Restaurants In MiamiTop Best Road Trips From MiamiTop Best Places to Visit in MarylandTop Best Places to Visit in North CarolinaTop Best Electric Cars For KidsTop Best Swedish Brands in The USTop Best Skincare Brands in AmericaTop Best American Lipstick BrandsTop Michelin-starred Restaurants in MiamiTop Best Secluded Getaways From MiamiTop Best Things To Do On A Rainy Day In MiamiTop Most Instagrammable Places In MiamiTop Interesting Facts about FlorenceTop Facts About The First Roman Emperor - AugustusTop Best Japanese FoodsTop Most Beautiful Historical Sites in IsraelTop Best Places To Visit In Holy SeeTop Best Hawaiian IslandsTop Reasons to Visit PortugalTop Best Hotels In L.A. With Free Wi-FiTop Best Scenic Drives in MiamiTop Best Vegan Restaurants in BerlinTop Most Interesting Attractions In WalesTop Health Benefits of a Vegan DietTop Best Thai Restaurant in Las VegasTop Most Beautiful Forests in SwitzerlandTop Best Global Universities in GermanyTop Most Beautiful Lakes in GuyanaTop Best Things To Do in IdahoTop Things to Know Before Traveling to North MacedoniaTop Best German Sunglasses BrandsTop Highest Mountains In FranceTop Biggest Hydroelectric Plants in AmericaTop Best Spa Hotels in NYCTop The World's Scariest BridgeTop Largest Hotels In AmericaTop Most Famous Festivals in JordanTop Best European Restaurants in MunichTop Best Japanese Hiking Boot BrandsTop Best Universities in PolandTop Best Tips for Surfing the Web Safely and AnonymouslyTop Most Valuable Football Clubs in EuropeTop Highest Mountains In ColombiaTop Real-Life Characters of Texas RisingTop Best Beaches in GuatelamaTop Things About DR Congo You Should KnowTop Best Korean Reality & Variety ShowsTop Best RockstarsTop Most Beautiful Waterfalls in GermanyTop Best Fountain Pen Ink BrandsTop Best European Restaurants in ChicagoTop Best Fighter Jets in the WorldTop Best Three-Wheel MotorcyclesTop Most Beautiful Lakes in ManitobaTop Best Dive Sites in VenezuelaTop Best Websites For Art StudentsTop Best Japanese Instant Noodle BrandsTop Best Comedy Manhwa (Webtoons)Top Best Japanese Sunglasses BrandsTop Most Expensive Air Jordan SneakersTop Health Benefits of CucumberTop Famous Universities in SwedenTop Most Popular Films Starring Jo Jung-sukTop Interesting Facts about CougarsTop Best Hospitals for Hip Replacement in the USATop Most Expensive DefendersTop Health Benefits of GooseberriesTop Health Benefits of ParsnipsTop Best Foods and Drinks in LondonTop Health Benefits of Rosehip TeaTop Best Air Fryers for Low-fat CookingTop Most Asked Teacher Interview Questions with AnswersTop Best Shopping Malls in ZurichTop The Most Beautiful Botanical Gardens In L.A.Top Best Mexican Restaurants in Miami for Carb-loading rightTop Best Energy Companies in GermanyTop Best Garage HeatersTop Largest Banks in IrelandTop Leading Provider - Audit and Assurance In The USTop Best Jewelry Brands in IndiaTop Prettiest Streets in the UKTop Best Lakes to Visit in TunisiaTop Highest Mountains in Israel