In the already pretty saturated automotive market in UAE, one SUV stands out as a definitive favorite for many years – the Nissan Patrol. Regarded as the UAE's no.1 car, the Nissan Patrol has earned itself a reputation for durability and reliability for both off-road and city driving. However, with the rising need for sophistication of driving experience and an influx of newcomers to the country, many buyers are options for alternative solutions on the market, or, to be more precise, the Infiniti QX80. What are the differences between the two models, and which one offers more for the price you are paying? We will find out in this article where we compare their performance, technology, off-road capabilities, and more to help you make an informed decision.
New Nissan Patrol vs. Infiniti QX80: A Battle of the New Shapes
With Infiniti being a luxury division of Nissan Motor Company, the striking resemblance between the two vehicles doesn't come as a surprise. Both SUVs feature bold appearances with uniquely recognizable designs, including Infiniti's signature grill inspired by the shapes of the bamboo forest and Nissan's signature C-curved headlights, among other features.
Nissan's legacy in the Middle East is undeniable, as this car was made for rough terrains and harsh climates. But they have understood their mission in Nissan and elevated the new Nissan Patrol to match their customers' expectations—from a rugged, boxy design to a sleek and modern appearance.
Infiniti QX80, on the other hand, stands as a synonym for a sleek sense of motion, or as the Japanese like to call it, "Sho," with its long, flat hood and crisp shoulder lines. Every feature on this vehicle has been crafted with extreme Japanese precision and attention to detail, from the lighting, the emblem, and its confident posture. Undeniably a luxurious beast, the Infiniti QX80 has a lot to offer to anyone who appreciates finesse and meticulous craftsmanship.
Exterior Design: Bold vs. Sleek
At first glance, an inexperienced eye might not notice much of a difference in the exterior design of these SUVs. They were both designed with great first impressions in mind and exceptional elegance.
However, as you explore a bit more, you will notice features that prove Japanese attentiveness and a desire to create a showstopping vehicle.
| Nissan Patrol | Infiniti QX80 |
|---|---|
| Bold and distinct appearance | Sleek, crisp lines |
| Unique wheel details | 22-inch alloys |
| Signature double C-curved headlights | Flush-fit handles |
| V-motion grille | Signature grille inspired by bamboo forest |
| Signature Nissan Patrol side badge | Welcoming light features |
| Distinctive front bumper | Illuminated 3D emblem |
| Dual-tone exterior | Dual-tone exterior in 7 different colors |
| Iconic puddle lamps | Full-width LED taillights |
Patrol's iconic puddle lamps embrace the model's heritage and celebrate the legacy since 1951. It is an iconic testament to the longstanding presence in the Middle East that automatically activates as you approach the car.
Infiniti QX80 is packed with impressive exterior features, but what stands out the most is the welcoming lighting feature that embodies the idea of thoughtful Japanese hospitality, Omotenashi. As you unlock the vehicle, a ground projection appears on the ground in the shape of wings, guiding you to the vehicle.
For a full list of exterior details and features, we recommend visiting the official websites of the models.
Interior and Technology: Comfort and High-Tech
If you thought the exterior features and designs of these two vehicles were impressive, wait until you see what is hidden inside.
When it comes to interior design, both the new Nissan Patrol and Infiniti QX80 have done outstanding work in crafting sophisticatedly elevated, first-class amenities and features. A number of spectacular details are hard to illustrate with words but explore and compare some of the features that surely stand out.
| Nissan Patrol | Infiniti QX80 |
|---|---|
| Twin 14.3-inch Monolith display | 12.8-inch rear screens, USB port |
| Head up display | Soundproof cabin |
| Premium quilted leather | Quilted semi-aniline leather-appointed seats, touchscreen |
| Zero gravity seats | Massage, cooling, and heating function seats |
| 64 colors and 16 ambient tones illumination | 64 colors, personalized ambient lighting with the dashboard and doors |
| Wireless charging | My parking location for effortless parking |
| Piano button E-shifter (seamless gear transition) | Wireless smartphone at the front console |
| Panoramic sunroof | Panoramic moonroof with built-in wind deflector |
| Klipsch 12-speaker sound system | Klipsch 24-high-performance speakers |
| 12.8-inch rear entertainment screens | Individualized sound zones |
| EZ-flex second-row seats | Increased legroom space in second and third rows |
| Biometric cooling | Biometric climate control |
| ProPILOT driving assistant | ProPILOT assist 1.0 |
| Rear zoom view | The Smart rearview mirror |
| 3-D around-view monitor | 3-D intelligent around-view |
For a full list of interior details and technology, we recommend visiting the official websites of the models.
Performance: Power Meets Comfort
Powerful yet very quiet, the new Nissan Patrol is a powerhouse that achieves excellent on-road and off-road acceleration performance while maintaining optimal fuel efficiency even in low gears.
With impressive torque, the Infiniti QX80 delivers impressive and effortless power in all modes of driving. The new model has a stronger frame and 57% greater lateral stiffness, providing better towing capacity.
Let's look at a closer comparison of the two available trims for each new model:
| Feature | Infiniti QX80 MY25 (SENSORY) | Infiniti QX80 MY25 (AUTOGRAPH) | Nissan Patrol MY25 LE Titanium | Nissan Patrol MY25 LE Platinum City |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | AED 450,000 | AED 510,000 | AED 339,900 | AED 379,900 |
| Engine | 3.5L V6 Turbo | 3.5L V6 Turbo | 3.5L V6 Twin-Turbo | 3.5L V6 Twin-Turbo |
| Horsepower | 450 hp | 450 hp | 425 hp | 425 hp |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 700 Nm | 700 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic with paddle shifters | 9-speed automatic with paddle shifters | 9-speed automatic | 9-speed automatic |
| Fuel System | Direct fuel injection | Direct fuel injection | Direct fuel injection | Direct fuel injection |
| Seating Capacity | 7 passengers (Captain Chairs) / 8 passengers (Bench Chairs) | 7 passengers (Captain Chairs) / 8 passengers (Bench Chairs) | 8 passengers | 8 passengers |
| Interior | Luxury with massage seats, leather | Semi-aniline leather, massage seats, touch screen | Premium quilted leather, biometric cooling | Premium quilted leather, adaptive air suspension |
| Infotainment Screens | 12.8” rear screens, USB ports | 12.8” rear screens, USB ports | Twin 14.3” Monolith display | Twin 14.3” Monolith display |
| Audio System | 24-high-performance speaker Klipsch premium audio system | 24-high-performance speaker Klipsch premium audio system | 12-speaker Klipsch premium audio system | 12-speaker Klipsch premium audio system |
| Safety Features | Blind-spot warning, lane departure warning, forward emergency braking | Lane departure, forward collision warning, 360-degree camera | ProPilot, lane keep assist, 360-degree camera | ProPilot, lane keep assist, 360-degree camera |
| Off-Road Capability | 4WD, optimized for luxury on-road and light off-road use | 4WD, optimized for luxury on-road and light off-road use | Full-time 4WD with adaptive air suspension and off-road modes | Full-time 4WD with adaptive air suspension and off-road modes |
| Drive Modes | Standard, Sport, Eco, Personal, Rock, Sand | Standard, Sport, Eco, Personal, Rock, Sand | Rock, Sand, Mud, Eco, Sport, Standard | Rock, Sand, Mud, Eco, Sport, Standard |
| Towing Capacity | 3,855 kg (Approx.) | 3,855 kg (Approx.) | 3,500 kg | 3,500 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 Liters | 100 Liters | 97 Liters | 97 Liters |
| Cargo Space | 470 Liters (with 3rd row up) | 470 Liters (with 3rd row up) | 468 Liters (with 3rd row up) | 468 Liters (with 3rd row up) |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 5,339 mm x 2,264 mm x 1,925 mm | 5,339 mm x 2,264 mm x 1,925 mm | 5,350 mm x 2,030 mm x 1,945 mm | 5,350 mm x 2,030 mm x 1,945 mm |
| Wheelbase | 3,075 mm | 3,075 mm | 3,075 mm | 3,075 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 234 mm | 234 mm | 244 mm | 244 mm |
| Tire Size | 275/50 R22 | 275/50 R22 | 275/60 R20 | 275/60 R22 |
| Sunroof | Panoramic | Panoramic | Panoramic | Panoramic |
| Suspension | Independent double wishbone with hydraulic body motion control | Independent double wishbone with hydraulic body motion control | Adaptive air suspension | Adaptive air suspension |
| Exterior Lighting | Full LED with Piano Key Micro LED Taillights | Full LED with Piano Key Micro LED Taillights | Double C-shape signature LED headlights | Double C-shape signature LED headlights |
| Off-Road Angles (Approach/Departure) | 20.9° / 22.3° | 20.9° / 22.3° | 32° / 25.5° | 32° / 25.5° |
Off-Road Capability: Built for Adventure
Known for the dessert dune bashing and thrilling rides, Nissan Patrol is stable in harsh environments. To make the vehicle even more comfortable, the new Patrol comes equipped with e-damper technology, allowing for damper settings adjustments. It also features the innovative Adaptive Air Suspension, raising the vehicle's ground clearance to easily tackle the terrain.
Infiniti QX80 features an All-Mode 4WD that continually adjusts power delivery between front and rear axles. This 6-settings drive mode selector allows for better grip according to the driving condition. In rough terrains, the rear differential lock helps distribute power across the rear wheels to assist in escaping from conditions like mud or sand.
Which Offers Better Value?
Depending on the trim, you will find that the Nissan Patrol comes at a more affordable price range compared to the new Infiniti QX80.
| Nissan Patrol 2025 | Infiniti QX80 2025 |
|---|---|
| Price: | Price: |
| Starting from 239,900 AED | Starting from 450,000 AED |
While many will argue that the price difference doesn't justify the value that the Infiniti QX80 has to offer, those who appreciate the exquisite craftsmanship and more powerful engine options will spur the extra dirhams.
Infiniti is considered a luxury brand and is renowned for its power, towing capacity, and safety. However, considering the advancements in design, technology, and sophistication of the new Nissan Patrol and what it has to offer, it is easy to see why car buyers prefer it as an option. Perhaps the price difference doesn't justify only slightly better features and intriguing stories behind the Japanese elements embodied in an Infiniti.
Conclusion: Which SUV Is Right for You?
As you have seen, both the Nissan Patrol and the Infiniti QX80 offer brilliant design, thoughtful details, and incredible power and reliability on all terrains. You can't go wrong by choosing either one of them, and you can expect to enjoy their durability for many years.
In the end, the decision as to which SUV is the right one for you will depend on many different factors, mainly your budget as well as preferences in design and additional features.
Disclaimer: All information, including pricing, vehicle details, and legal requirements, is accurate at the time of publication but may be subject to change due to market conditions or policy updates. While First Choice Cars makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information provided, we hold no responsibility for any errors, omissions, or outdated content. We recommend contacting our team directly to confirm the latest details before making any decisions.