2020 Infiniti QX80 Fuel Economy: What to Expect

16 MPG combined won’t win any awards, but it’s what you get with the 2020 Infiniti QX80 2WD, a full-size SUV built for serious towing, hauling, and luxurious passenger transport. This isn’t a vehicle for hypermilers. It’s for families who prioritize space, capability, and a certain level of opulent comfort, and for whom fuel costs are a secondary concern. For buyers seeking maximum utility and a commanding presence, the QX80 delivers a package that prioritizes power and space over efficiency.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 14 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway for the 2020 Infiniti QX80. The city figure reflects stop-and-go traffic and the 5.6L V8 continually pulling over 5,600 pounds from a standstill. The highway number isn’t stellar, but it shows the benefit of the 7-speed automatic transmission in achieving more efficient cruising when aerodynamics and steady-state driving help minimize fuel consumption. These numbers show a vehicle better for longer journeys than purely urban driving.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2020 Infiniti QX80 2WD is $3,600. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a roughly 55/45 split between city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. It’s a substantial sum, but QX80 buyers are often less sensitive to gas prices than drivers of more fuel-efficient vehicles. Understanding this figure provides an estimate of annual fuel expenditure.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates provide a baseline, but driving habits significantly impact real-world MPG. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and consistently exceeding speed limits will lower fuel economy. A driver with a gentle foot, anticipating traffic flow, and adhering to speed limits might see MPG closer to the EPA’s estimates, but likely not above them. The QX80’s size and weight mean it takes considerable energy to accelerate and maintain speed. See QX80 MPG across all years.

How it compares

The QX80’s fuel economy is about where you’d expect it to be among its rivals. The Cadillac Escalade (2WD) with its 6.2L V8 is rated at 17 MPG combined, a slight edge. The Lincoln Navigator (2WD) achieves around 18 MPG combined with its turbocharged 3.5L V6. The Lexus LX 570, another competitor, is rated at a similar 15 MPG combined. These differences are usually secondary to other considerations such as styling, features, and brand preference. When you consider all Infiniti fuel economy data, the QX80 is at the bottom end of the spectrum in terms of efficiency.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The QX80’s V8 packs plenty of power, but each hard launch translates directly into burned fuel. Gentle and gradual acceleration will improve fuel economy, especially in city driving where you’re starting from a standstill.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which requires the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended settings.

Minimize idling. The QX80’s large engine consumes a surprising amount of fuel while idling. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two, such as at a long traffic light or waiting in a parking lot, turn off the engine.

Plan your trips and consolidate errands. Combining multiple short trips into a single, longer journey allows the engine to reach its optimal operating temperature and reduces the number of cold starts, which are less fuel-efficient. Avoid peak traffic times if possible.