The QX80 is a large, plush, quiet, and well-equipped SUV that is cumbersome to maneuver and ponderous to park. The 400-hp V8 churns out admirable thrust, channeled through a seamless, seven-speed automatic transmission. Climbing aboard takes dexterity and it's hard to access the small third-row seats with dignity intact. A more serious detriment is emergency handling. When pushed to its limits, the QX80 leans a good deal and the tail can start sliding out disconcertingly. Though it didn't do anything dangerous, it bred very little confidence.
Forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, lane keeping assistance, blind spot warning, rear cross traffic warning, and a rear seat reminder are standard.