Enterthe HULk-mobiLE
hAILED as the largest standard configuration sports utility vehicle in Malaysia, the gargantuan Infiniti QX80 was launched last week, priced (on-the-road without insurance) at RM799,000. Imported from Japan, with a luxurious cabin for eight people, the QX80 has a powerful 5.6-litre V8 engine with VVEL (variable valve event and lift) technology and direct petrol injection, which produces 405hp and 560Nm of torque.
The V8 engine is mated to a smooth 7-speed automatic transmission with Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) and manual shift mode with Downshift Rev matching.
Exterior features include lightweight 22-inch forged aluminum alloy wheels, large stainless rear bumper scuff protector and a power rear liftgate.
The QX80 is offered with standard four-wheel drive, featuring Infiniti’s proven All-Mode 4WD system.
The system distributes torque to all four wheels when road conditions warrant (up to 50% can go to the front wheels on demand), helping to enhance traction.
When off-road conditions become more challenging, a multi-mode terrain switch with Snow, Mud and Rock settings changes the engine torque, 4WD and VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control) parameters.
“The QX80’s majestic presence and gigantic size makes it the largest SUV officially available for sale in Malaysia,” said Infiniti Business Unit head Christopher Tan.
“It is the perfect luxury SUV for CEOs, cap- tains and leaders of industry who demand the best performance and security in their SUVs,” said Tan.
With the QX80, the Hydraulic Body Motion Control system is introduced for the first time ever on a Infiniti vehicle.
The system helps reduce body lean while turning, for a more comfortable ride.
Utilising hydraulic cylinders located at the shock absorbers (connected via cross piping and two accumulators), it adjusts roll stiffness by allowing transfer of fluid between the left and right sides of the vehicle through passive weight transfer during normal driving. Besides the semi-aniline leath
er-appointed seating, climate-controlled (heating and cooling functions) front seats are standard.
Entertainment gadgets include a Bose Cabin Surround sound system with 5.1-encoding, 15-speakers, single in-dash DVD/CD player with MP3 playback, USB connection port and Bluetooth.
It also includes an eight inch high resolution colour touch-screen display, dual seven-inch colour headrest monitors, two pairs of wireless headphones, and wireless remote control.
The system allows playback of games or movies in the rear.
The two seven-inch colour monitors include an auto-bright system that adjusts for daytime, clouds/ evening and night/tunnel lighting.
Safety technologies include Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) with Forward Emergency Braking, Predictive Forward Collision Warning (PFCW), Backup Collision Intervention (BCI), Intelligent Cruise Control (Full-Speed Range), Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Distance Control Assist (DCA), Around View Monitor, and Moving Object Detection.
Four exterior colours are available – Majestic White, Graphite Shadow, Dark Currant and Black Obsidian.
> Automaniahasjusttestedthe QX80.Watchoutforthereview comingsoon.