The Infiniti QX80 is a full-size body-on-frame luxury SUV produced from 2014 to the present. It replaced the Infiniti QX56 nameplate, which ran on the same ladder-frame platform from 2011 to 2013. The QX80 is available in rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive configurations across multiple trim levels.
This guide covers Infiniti QX80 towing capacity by model year, including maximum trailer weight, payload limits, tongue weight, and hitch class. Towing specifications vary depending on drivetrain, trim level, and installed equipment packages. Exceeding manufacturer-rated towing limits puts measurable stress on the transmission, braking system, frame, and cooling components.
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2026 Infiniti QX80 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 (450 hp / 516 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | RWD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 8,500 lbs (3,856 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 8,500 lbs (3,856 kg) with weight-distributing hitch |
| Maximum Trailer Weight, Dead Weight Hitch | 5,000 lbs (2,268 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Consult owner’s manual (varies by configuration) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 7,610 lbs (3,452 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 850 lbs (385 kg) WDH / 500 lbs (227 kg) dead weight |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Standard |
The 2026 Infiniti QX80 delivers a maximum towing capacity of 8,500 lbs when a weight-distributing hitch is used. Dead weight hitch setups are limited to 5,000 lbs trailer weight with a 500-lb tongue weight maximum. The 3.5L twin-turbo V6 with a base curb weight of approximately 6,006 lbs provides the towing foundation for this generation.
2025 Infiniti QX80 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 (450 hp / 516 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | RWD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 8,500 lbs (3,856 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 8,500 lbs (3,856 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Consult owner’s manual (varies by configuration) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | 15,000 lbs (6,804 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 850 lbs (385 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Standard |
The 2025 Infiniti QX80 marks the debut of the second-generation platform, replacing the naturally aspirated 5.6L V8 with a twin-turbocharged V6 producing 450 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. Despite the engine change, the maximum towing capacity remains at 8,500 lbs, consistent with the first generation. The GCWR of 15,000 lbs represents the total permissible combined weight of the loaded vehicle and loaded trailer.
2024 Infiniti QX80 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.6L V8 (400 hp / 413 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | RWD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 8,500 lbs (3,856 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 8,500 lbs (3,856 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,576 lbs (715 kg) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 7,300 lbs (3,311 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 850 lbs (385 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Standard |
The 2024 Infiniti QX80 is the final model year of the first-generation platform and the last to use the 5.6L V8 engine. Maximum towing capacity is 8,500 lbs with the factory-integrated Class IV hitch receiver included as standard equipment. The curb weight of approximately 5,724 lbs leaves a manufacturer-rated payload of 1,576 lbs before reaching the 7,300-lb GVWR.
2023 Infiniti QX80 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.6L V8 (400 hp / 413 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | RWD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 8,500 lbs (3,856 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 8,500 lbs (3,856 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,576 lbs (715 kg) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 7,300 lbs (3,311 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 850 lbs (385 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Standard |
The 2023 Infiniti QX80 towing capacity holds at 8,500 lbs across all trim levels. The 5.6L V8 paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission remained unchanged from the prior model year. Both RWD and 4WD configurations carry the same maximum trailer weight rating when properly equipped.
2022 Infiniti QX80 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.6L V8 (400 hp / 413 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | RWD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 8,500 lbs (3,856 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 8,500 lbs (3,856 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,576 lbs (715 kg) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 7,300 lbs (3,311 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 850 lbs (385 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Standard |
The 2022 Infiniti QX80 maintains a maximum towing capacity of 8,500 lbs with no powertrain changes from the preceding model year. The body-on-frame ladder chassis supports the full Class IV towing rating. Tongue weight must not exceed 850 lbs, which is 10 percent of the maximum trailer weight limit.
2021 Infiniti QX80 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.6L V8 (400 hp / 413 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | RWD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 8,500 lbs (3,856 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 8,500 lbs (3,856 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,576 lbs (715 kg) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 7,300 lbs (3,311 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 850 lbs (385 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Standard |
The 2021 Infiniti QX80 towing capacity remains at 8,500 lbs across all drivetrain configurations. No engine, transmission, or chassis modifications affected towing limits for this model year. The standard integrated Class IV receiver hitch is required to achieve the rated maximum trailer weight.
2020 Infiniti QX80 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.6L V8 (400 hp / 413 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | RWD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 8,500 lbs (3,856 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 8,500 lbs (3,856 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,576 lbs (715 kg) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 7,300 lbs (3,311 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 850 lbs (385 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Standard |
The 2020 Infiniti QX80 supports a maximum towing capacity of 8,500 lbs when correctly equipped with the factory tow package. The 5.6L V8 engine and 7-speed automatic transmission continued unchanged, delivering consistent towing output. Payload capacity combined with tongue weight must be managed to stay within the 7,300-lb GVWR.
2019 Infiniti QX80 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.6L V8 (400 hp / 413 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | RWD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 8,500 lbs (3,856 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 8,500 lbs (3,856 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,576 lbs (715 kg) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 7,300 lbs (3,311 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 850 lbs (385 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Standard / Optional |
The 2019 Infiniti QX80 provides a maximum towing capacity of 8,500 lbs when the tow package is installed. Base configurations without the tow package may carry a reduced trailer weight rating. Verify the specific vehicle’s option codes and consult the owner’s manual before towing any load approaching the maximum limit.
2018 Infiniti QX80 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.6L V8 (400 hp / 413 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | RWD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 8,500 lbs (3,856 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 8,500 lbs (3,856 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,576 lbs (715 kg) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 7,300 lbs (3,311 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 850 lbs (385 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Standard |
The 2018 Infiniti QX80 carries a maximum towing capacity of 8,500 lbs, consistent with the broader QX80 first-generation lineup. The 5.6L VK56VD V8 engine features direct injection and variable valve timing, maintaining full towing output in both RWD and 4WD configurations. The integrated Class IV receiver hitch is standard equipment on all 2018 models.
2017 Infiniti QX80 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.6L V8 (400 hp / 413 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | RWD / 4WD (INFINITI All-Mode 4WD with Auto, 4H, 4L) |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 8,500 lbs (3,856 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 8,500 lbs (3,856 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,576 lbs (715 kg) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 7,300 lbs (3,311 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 850 lbs (385 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Standard |
The 2017 Infiniti QX80 includes a standard integrated Class IV tow hitch with an 8,500-lb towing capacity when properly equipped. The 4WD models use the INFINITI All-Mode 4WD system with computer-controlled transfer case settings including Auto, 4H, and 4L modes. Rear automatic self-leveling suspension is standard and helps maintain vehicle attitude under tongue weight load.
2016 Infiniti QX80 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.6L V8 (400 hp / 413 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | RWD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 8,500 lbs (3,856 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 8,500 lbs (3,856 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,600 lbs (725 kg) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 7,300 lbs (3,311 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 850 lbs (385 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Standard |
The 2016 Infiniti QX80 retains the 8,500-lb maximum towing capacity with no powertrain changes from the 2015 model year. The 5.6L V8 engine output remained at 400 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque. The factory-integrated Class IV receiver hitch and rear self-leveling suspension are standard on all configurations.
2015 Infiniti QX80 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.6L V8 (400 hp / 413 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | RWD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 8,500 lbs (3,856 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 8,500 lbs (3,856 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,600 lbs (725 kg) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 7,300 lbs (3,311 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 850 lbs (385 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Standard |
The 2015 Infiniti QX80 delivers a maximum towing capacity of 8,500 lbs with the standard tow package equipped. The base RWD configuration has a curb weight of approximately 5,633 lbs, with 4WD models carrying additional weight. The 7-speed shiftable automatic transmission paired with the 5.6L V8 manages the full trailer weight rating.
2014 Infiniti QX80 Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 5.6L V8 (400 hp / 413 lb-ft) |
| Drivetrain | RWD / 4WD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity | 8,500 lbs (3,856 kg) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity | 8,500 lbs (3,856 kg) |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | 1,645 lbs (746 kg) |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) | 7,500 lbs (3,402 kg) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 850 lbs (385 kg) |
| Hitch Class | Class IV |
| Factory Tow Package | Standard |
The 2014 Infiniti QX80 is the first model year under the QX80 designation, replacing the QX56 nameplate while retaining the same 5.6L V8 and ladder-frame chassis. Maximum towing capacity of 8,500 lbs carried forward from the QX56 platform without modification. The 2014 model year recorded a slightly higher GVWR of 7,500 lbs compared to later first-generation variants, resulting in a payload rating of 1,645 lbs.
Towing Equipment and Setup
Reaching the rated maximum towing capacity on the Infiniti QX80 requires proper towing equipment. The factory tow package provides the baseline for safe towing operations, including the Class IV receiver hitch and wiring harness. Certain model years include an integrated trailer brake controller pre-wired from the factory, allowing direct cabin adjustment of trailer braking force.
Trailer Brake Controller
A trailer brake controller synchronizes the electric brakes on the trailer with the tow vehicle. Federal and state regulations in most jurisdictions require trailer brakes on trailers exceeding a specified gross weight, typically 3,000 lbs. For trailers approaching the QX80s 8,500-lb limit, an integrated or aftermarket trailer brake controller is not optional.
Weight-Distributing Hitch
A weight-distributing hitch transfers tongue weight from the rear axle forward, distributing load across all axles of both the tow vehicle and the trailer. On the 2026 QX80, using a dead weight hitch limits trailer weight to 5,000 lbs, while a weight-distributing setup allows the full 8,500-lb rating. This equipment is critical when towing trailers in the upper half of the QX80s capacity range.
Towing Setup Comparison
| Equipment Factor | Light Towing (under 5,000 lbs) | Heavy Towing (5,000 to 8,500 lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| Hitch Type | Dead weight Class IV | Weight-distributing Class IV required |
| Trailer Brakes | Check local regulations | Required in most jurisdictions |
| Transmission Cooler | Factory-equipped | Factory-equipped; verify fluid condition |
| Sway Control | Trailer Sway Assist (standard) | Add friction sway control or WDH sway bar |
| Tire Load Rating | Verify OEM load index | Confirm load index on all four tires |
| Tow Package | Required for full rating | Required; verify option codes on vehicle |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum towing capacity of an Infiniti QX80?
The maximum Infiniti QX80 towing capacity is 8,500 lbs (3,856 kg) when properly equipped with the factory tow package and a weight-distributing hitch. This rating applies to all model years from 2014 through 2026. The tow package is standard equipment on all current trim levels.
How much can an Infiniti QX80 tow with a tow package?
With the factory tow package installed, the Infiniti QX80 towing limit reaches 8,500 lbs across all model years. The tow package includes the receiver hitch, wiring harness, and on current models, a trailer brake controller pre-wired connection. Without the tow package, the rated limit is lower; consult the vehicle’s build sheet for the exact figure.
Does 4WD affect Infiniti QX80 towing capacity?
The 4WD drivetrain option does not increase or decrease the maximum towing capacity of the Infiniti QX80. Both RWD and 4WD variants are rated at 8,500 lbs maximum trailer weight. The 4WD system provides a traction benefit during initial acceleration when hitched to a loaded trailer.
What trailer weight is safe for an Infiniti QX80?
The manufacturer-rated maximum trailer weight for the Infiniti QX80 is 8,500 lbs with a weight-distributing hitch. Safe towing also requires that tongue weight stays at or below 850 lbs and that the combined vehicle payload, passengers, and cargo do not exceed the GVWR. Operating within all three limits simultaneously is required for safe towing.
Do I need a weight-distributing hitch for an Infiniti QX80?
A weight-distributing hitch is required to reach the 8,500-lb maximum towing capacity on the 2026 model year and is recommended for all model years when approaching the upper limit. Without a weight-distributing hitch, the 2026 QX80 is limited to 5,000 lbs with a 500-lb tongue weight maximum. For trailers under 5,000 lbs total, a standard dead weight hitch setup may be adequate depending on model year.
Is a trailer brake controller included with the Infiniti QX80?
Current Infiniti QX80 models include pre-wiring for an electric trailer brake controller, and on recent model years the integrated controller is included as standard equipment. Older first-generation QX80 models may require an aftermarket unit. The controller allows the driver to adjust braking sensitivity from inside the cabin during towing operations.
Conclusion
The Infiniti QX80 towing capacity has remained consistent at 8,500 lbs (3,856 kg) across every model year from 2014 through 2026. First-generation models (2014 to 2024) use a 5.6L V8 producing 400 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque, while second-generation models (2025 to 2026) transition to a 3.5L twin-turbo V6 rated at 450 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque, without any reduction in maximum trailer weight capacity.
Reaching the rated maximum towing capacity on any model year requires the factory tow package, a properly rated Class IV receiver hitch, and on heavier loads, a weight-distributing hitch setup. Payload, passenger weight, and cargo must all factor into the total load calculation before hitching a trailer near the maximum limit. Always verify towing specifications using the owner’s manual for the specific model year and configuration before towing heavy loads.
