2018 Volvo XC90 vs 2016 Infiniti QX80
Reliability Side-by-Side
2018
Volvo XC90
Grade B
A safe, stylish, and comfortable SUV that demands attention to its complex systems to remain reliable.
2016
Infiniti QX80
Grade B+
A powerhouse of reliability and luxury, the QX80 is a strong contender for worry-free upscale SUV ownership.
Best For
Best for Reliability
2016 Infiniti QX80
Score 88/100 vs 82/100
Best for Lowest Risk
2016 Infiniti QX80
low risk
Best for Lowest Annual Upkeep
2016 Infiniti QX80
$500-800
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Cost of Ownership
| Line Item | 2018 Volvo XC90 | 2016 Infiniti QX80★ |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Maintenance | $600-900 (routine service, oil changes) | $500-800 |
| Moderate Repairs | $500-1,500 occasionally (e.g., Sensus repair, sensor replacement, suspension bushings) | $600-1,800 occasionally (e.g., HVAC blend door, suspension bushings, brake overhaul) |
| MPG (City/Hwy) | 20 / 27 | 13 / 19 |
| MSRP (New) | $54,100 | $66,950 |
Major-failure risk and insurance outlook for each vehicle are in their full reliability reports.
Printed Owner's Guidebooks · $29.99 each · free US shipping
2018 Volvo XC90
Reliability report · logs · 13 chapters
2016 Infiniti QX80
Reliability report · logs · 13 chapters
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Biggest Risks on Each
2018 Volvo XC90
Sensus Infotainment System
30,000-70,000 mi
Air Suspension System (Optional)
60,000-100,000 mi
Electrical Gremlins & Sensors
40,000-80,000 mi
2016 Infiniti QX80
HVAC System
60,000-100,000 mi
Power Liftgate
75,000-120,000 mi
Exhaust Manifold
90,000-150,000 mi
Get the Full Report on Each
7-system breakdown, mileage danger zones, repair costs, and expert verdict for each vehicle.
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Editorial Take
Reliability & Common Issues
2018 Volvo XC90 1. Infotainment System Glitches: The Sensus infotainment system, while visually appealing, was known to experience occasional freezing, slow responses, or connectivity issues, especially in early models of this generation. Software updates often resolved many of these. 2. Air Suspension Leaks: For models equipped with the optional air suspension, some owners reported issues with air leaks or compressor failures, particularly around the 50,000 to 70,000-mile mark, leading to uneven ride height or a harsh ride. 3. Minor Electrical Gremlins: Some owners experienced intermittent warning lights (e.g., check engine, sensor failures) that were often resolved with software recalibrations or minor component replacements, typical for a vehicle with such complex electronics. 2016 Infiniti QX80 1. Timing Chain Issues: While more prevalent in earlier generations of Nissan's VK56 V8 engine (around 2004-2010), some owners of the QX80 platform have reported issues with timing chain guide wear, which can lead to expensive repairs if not addressed early. This is less common in the 2016 model year but still a potential concern for high-mileage examples. 2. Transmission Shudder/Harsh Shifts: A handful of owners reported a slight shudder or harsh shift sensation from the 7-speed automatic transmission, often noticeable at lower speeds. In many cases, a software update or fluid flush could alleviate the problem. 3. Power Liftgate Motor Failure: The power liftgate mechanism has been an area of concern for some owners, with the motor or struts sometimes failing, preventing automatic opening or closing.
Value & Cost of Ownership
Considering their age, both vehicles offer compelling value on the used market, though their depreciation paths differ. A 2018 Volvo XC90 T6 or T8 can typically be found in the $20,000-$35,000 range, depending on mileage, condition, and options. A 2016 Infiniti QX80 typically trades in the $18,000-$28,000 range, representing significant value for its original MSRP. The QX80 generally depreciates more sharply, making it a strong used-car bargain for buyers prioritizing size and V8 power. Insurance costs will vary based on driver profile and location, but generally, the Infiniti QX80 might incur slightly higher premiums due to its larger engine and potentially higher repair costs for certain components. Maintenance costs for both are consistent with luxury vehicles; parts and specialized labor are more expensive than mainstream brands. The XC90's more complex four-cylinder engines and hybrid system (for T8) can have specific maintenance needs, while the QX80's V8 is generally robust but requires more expensive fuel. Resale value for the XC90 tends to be stronger percentage-wise in the mid-term, particularly for the T6 and T8 trims, due to its modern appeal and advanced features. The QX80's value is primarily in its initial depreciation making it attractive as a used purchase.
Parts & Accessories for These Vehicles
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