Five years ago, the Infiniti QX80 commanded upwards of $90,000 as a flagship SUV designed to rival giants like the Cadillac Escalade and Lexus LX. Today? You can snag one for roughly $35,000 — representing nearly a 60% loss in value. This dramatic depreciation isn’t due to mechanical issues; it’s a story of shifting consumer preferences and Infiniti’s struggle to keep up with a rapidly evolving luxury SUV market.
A Powerful Machine Left Behind
The 2020 QX80 boasted impressive specs: a robust 400-horsepower V8 engine, seating for eight, and available four-wheel drive capable of towing 8,500 pounds. Its interior was generously appointed with leather upholstery and genuine wood trim, offering a luxurious experience despite its aging platform dating back to 2011.
However, this combination of raw power and traditional opulence became its undoing.
The Shifting Sands of Luxury
The early 2020s marked a seismic shift in the luxury SUV landscape. Buyers increasingly gravitated towards hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and fully electric models, prioritizing fuel efficiency and advanced technology over raw horsepower and established gasoline-powered platforms. Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Cadillac responded with redesigned Escalades and Navigators boasting massive infotainment screens, hands-free driving systems, and sleek, modernized interiors. Infiniti, meanwhile, stuck with its tried-and-true formula, leaving the QX80 feeling anachronistic and outclassed.
The brand’s own identity crisis exacerbated the problem. Infiniti had always positioned itself as a blend of Japanese craftsmanship and value-oriented luxury. But while rivals like Audi embraced performance and BMW focused on driver engagement, Infiniti struggled to carve its niche. This lack of focus, combined with slow modernization, resulted in the QX80 failing to capture the imagination of new buyers, pushing it further into depreciation territory.
The Price Is Right (And That’s Not a Good Thing)
The steep decline in resale value is ultimately a reflection of waning demand and brand perception rather than inherent flaws in the QX80 itself. Mechanically, the 2020 model remains solid with its powerful V8 engine and relatively reliable transmission.
But in today’s market where technology reigns supreme, buyers are less forgiving of dated infotainment systems and a lack of advanced driver-assistance features, even if those features weren’t particularly important five years ago.
A Secondhand Score?
This dramatic depreciation creates a fascinating opportunity for savvy shoppers.
The $35,000 price tag opens the door to an impressive package: a spacious and luxurious interior, towing capability beyond most rivals in this price range, and that undeniable V8 rumble. While fuel economy is undeniably low, it’s difficult to argue with the sheer value proposition for buyers seeking comfort, practicality, and an under-the-hood experience absent from today’s more tech-focused SUVs.
However, smart shoppers should proceed cautiously:
- Certified Pre-Owned (CPO): Look for CPO models with remaining warranties to mitigate potential repair costs, as Infiniti parts and service can be costly.
- Thorough Inspection: Get a pre-purchase inspection by an independent mechanic specializing in luxury vehicles.
The 2020 Infiniti QX80 serves as a cautionary tale for brands that fail to adapt to changing consumer expectations but presents an undeniable bargain opportunity for those seeking V8 power and old-school luxury without breaking the bank.
