Infiniti QX80 Review | Car Talk Podcast: Yes, The $355 Umbrella Holder Is Real

Big luxury meets real-world testing as we put the fully redesigned 2025 Infiniti QX80 Autograph through its paces and ask the question that matters: does six-figure comfort justify its place among Escalade, Navigator, and Grand Wagoneer? We break down the Autograph’s quilted-leather lounge, massaging seats in two rows, digital rearview mirror, and 14.3-inch infotainment, then pair it with hard numbers from the new twin‑turbo V6—450 hp, 516 lb‑ft, 8,500‑lb towing—and a calm, air‑suspended ride that makes interstate miles easy.

From there, we switch gears to the six‑wheel, three‑axle world and separate sizzle from substance. Better weight distribution, extra traction, and added stability make sense for heavy loads and deep sand or mud, but the price in complexity, repair logistics, and fuel or range drag is real. If you’ve ever wondered whether 6x6 is practical or just a flex, this segment gives you the trade-offs you need.

We also share two electric standouts. First, a sharp, long‑wheelbase performance EV with 615 hp that nails design and daily usability: a huge integrated screen, smart column shifter that frees console space, and confident acceleration. Then we move to Volvo’s EX40 Twin Motor Ultra—clean styling, pixel headlights, and a plush, quiet ride—balanced by a touch‑heavy interface that turns simple tasks into multi-tap routines. We compare charging times, cost per mile, and where each lands against Tesla Model Y Performance, Mustang Mach‑E GT, Ioniq 5 XRT, EQB, Q4 e‑tron, and GV60.

A quick stop at Cadillac Ranch reminds us why car culture still matters: specs are great, stories are better. If you’re weighing a luxury SUV or hunting for an EV that fits real life, you’ll leave with the numbers, context, and a clear sense of trade‑offs. Enjoy the ride, then share your pick with us—subscribe, leave a review, and tell a friend who’s shopping for their next set of wheels.

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Chapters

• 0:00 Infiniti QX80 Overview & Trims
• 1:15 Exterior Design And Features
• 2:30 Cabin Tech, Comfort, And Audio
• 3:16 Powertrain, Towing, And Fuel Economy
• 4:10 Ride, Pricing, And Competitors
• 5:11 Six-Wheel Vehicles: Pros And Cons
• 8:37 Sponsor Breaks And Show Plugs
• 10:50 EV Review: Sharp Long-Wheelbase SUV
• 12:10 Interior UX, Range, And Value
• 15:15 Cadillac Ranch: Car Culture Stop
• 17:23 Volvo EX40: Trims And Design
• 19:20 EX40 Interface Quirks And Safety
• 21:15 Charging Costs, Range Math, And Rivals
• 24:00 Closing Sponsors And Where To Listen