16 MPG combined isn’t great, but the 2018 Infiniti QX80 2WD 5.6L 8-cyl is bought by families who need space, towing, and a certain level of luxury. For these buyers, fuel economy is often a secondary concern weighed against the QX80’s strengths.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2018 QX80 2WD at 14 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the demands on the naturally aspirated 5.6L V8 engine, which must work hard to move this heavy SUV. The city figure shows the fuel consumption penalty of stop-and-go driving with a heavy vehicle. The highway number shows some improvement when the engine can settle into a more efficient cruising speed, aided by the 7-speed automatic transmission.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Infiniti QX80 2WD is $3,600. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with roughly 55% of those miles in the city and 45% on the highway. It also uses the national average fuel price for regular gasoline when the EPA performed the calculations. Fuel costs will vary based on driving habits and local fuel prices, but this figure provides a benchmark for prospective buyers.

Real-world expectations

Real-world MPG for the 2018 QX80 will likely vary. Aggressive driving, frequent towing, and extended idling will all negatively impact fuel economy. Gentle acceleration, consistent highway speeds, and proper maintenance can help achieve figures closer to the EPA estimates. Owners should anticipate falling slightly short of the official numbers under typical driving conditions.

How it compares

The QX80’s fuel economy is at the lower end of the large luxury SUV segment. For example, the 2018 Cadillac Escalade 2WD, with its 6.2L V8, is rated at 14 MPG city, 23 MPG highway. The Lincoln Navigator, redesigned for 2018 with a more efficient turbocharged V6, achieves an EPA-estimated 16 MPG city and 22 MPG highway in its 2WD configuration. Even the Mercedes-Benz GLS450, with its turbocharged V6, manages 17 MPG city and 22 MPG highway. This MPG difference highlights the trade-off buyers face when choosing the QX80, competitive pricing and a reliable V8 in exchange for lower fuel efficiency. See QX80 MPG across all years. Understanding where it fits relative to the competition is important for those mindful of running costs.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The QX80’s large displacement engine responds noticeably to driving style. Smooth acceleration and anticipating traffic flow can reduce the amount of fuel the engine needs to burn. Avoid aggressive starts and hard braking, as these actions waste energy and lower fuel economy.

Ensure that your QX80’s tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate to the pressure recommended on the sticker inside the driver’s side door.

Unnecessary weight significantly impacts fuel economy, especially in a vehicle of this size. Remove any items from the QX80 that aren’t needed. Empty the cargo area of equipment and heavy items that are stored, but are not used, like sporting goods, tools, or extra supplies.

Minimize idling whenever possible. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and idling wastes fuel. This is especially impactful in a large displacement engine like the QX80’s.

Keep up with regular maintenance, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently and burns fuel more completely. See all Infiniti fuel economy data. Neglecting maintenance can lead to decreased performance and increased fuel consumption.