Best SUVs Under $80,000: Top Picks — and Why INFINITI Should Be On Your Shortlist

Shopping for a luxury SUV under $80,000? You can have premium materials, advanced tech, confident handling, and family-ready practicality without paying luxury-brand sticker shock. Below are the best SUVs that deliver exceptional value, and why the INFINITI QX60 deserves special attention for price, comfort, and real-world livability.

Quick take: What makes an SUV “best” under $80k

Real-world value: strong standard features and a competitive starting price.
Comfort & space: roomy cabin, usable third row on 3-row models, and good cargo capacity.
Technology & safety: modern infotainment, driver assistance, and useful connectivity.
Ownership sense: fuel efficiency and lower maintenance complexity matter over time.

Top SUVs under $80,000 (best-in-class picks)

Below are models that routinely appear on expert lists and buyer guides for 2025–2026 as top choices under the $80k threshold. These picks balance prestige, performance, and practicality. Sources like iSeeCars and TrueCar have curated similar lists of high-value luxury SUVs in this price band. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

INFINITI QX60 (2025–2026) — Luxury 3-row comfort, plenty of standard features, and pricing that starts well under $80k.
Lexus RX — Comfortable, reliable, and a top choice for buyers who prioritize refinement. Higher trims approach the top of this price band.
BMW X5 / X3 M / X4 M — Driver-focused luxury with strong performance options that still can fit under $80k depending on trim and options.
Genesis GV80 / GV80 Coupe — Exceptional value for premium materials and features; strong contender in this budget.
Audi Q8 / SQ5 — Polished interiors and excellent driving dynamics; many trims remain under $80k.

Why the INFINITI QX60 stands out (and why it should top your list)

Value-packed luxury: The QX60 brings premium materials, thoughtful packaging, and standard tech that are normally reserved for much pricier SUVs. INFINITI positions the QX60 to deliver a truly luxury experience while keeping the starting price accessible—making it one of the best luxury buys under $80k. Family-friendly space: The QX60’s three-row layout offers practical third-row space for kids or short adult trips, flexible cargo options, and cabin ergonomics designed for daily life and long drives. Refined powertrains and efficiency: INFINITI’s recent lineup emphasizes modern engines and efficiency without sacrificing strong torque or a composed highway demeanor—important when you’re balancing running costs with luxury comfort. Real ownership value: For buyers who want premium finishes without premium-only pricing, the QX60 typically provides lower starting MSRP and well-equipped trims that keep you under the $80k cap while still delivering signature INFINITI refinement.

How to choose the right SUV under $80k for you

Prioritize use case: Do you haul gear or kids every day? Choose space and cargo over sport trims.
Test drive the tech: Make sure infotainment and driver aids are intuitive for you—some luxury displays are flashy but less user-friendly.
Compare total cost of ownership: Fuel economy, expected maintenance, warranty, and resale value matter a lot over ownership years.
Trim math: Pick a trim that includes the features you want—fully-optioned versions can push prices up quickly, so focus on what you’ll actually use.

INFINITI QX60 vs the competition: what you’ll notice on a drive

Comfort-first tuning: QX60 emphasizes a quiet, composed cabin rather than overly stiff sporty handling—perfect for family commutes and long trips.
Feature density: Expect more included technology in mid-level QX60 trims than many rivals offer without costly option packages.
Value advantage: You can get an upscale interior, advanced driver aids, and strong warranty/options balance for a lower price than many European rivals.

Local tip for Beachwood & Northeast Ohio buyers

Driving in our region means mixing highway commutes, suburban streets, and lake-effect winters. Prioritize all-wheel drive and comfort features that reduce fatigue—both the QX60 and many of the SUVs listed above offer AWD packages and heated/ventilated seating that make a real difference. Visit us at INFINITI of Beachwood to compare options side-by-side and find a trim that stays comfortably under $80,000.

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Short FAQ (quick answers for shoppers)

Are there truly luxury SUVs under $80,000?

Yes. Several high-quality luxury SUVs—like the INFINITI QX60, Lexus RX, Genesis GV80, and many well-trimmed BMW/Audi models—are available with MSRPs under $80,000 depending on options and trim choices. Curated industry lists show multiple strong picks in this price band.

Why pick an INFINITI QX60 over a similar Lexus or BMW?

The QX60 blends a family-friendly three-row layout, refined cabin, and a strong list of standard features at a competitive price—making it an excellent value choice for buyers who want premium feel without premium extremes.

Will adding options push my SUV over $80k?

Yes—fully optioned trims and add-ons (premium packages, advanced driver aids, large wheels) can push many models above $80k. Work with a dealer to prioritize must-have features and look for packages that bundle the options you’ll use most.

Visit INFINITI of Beachwood — See these SUVs in person

We serve Beachwood, Cleveland, Mentor, and all of Northeast Ohio. Stop by for a no-pressure comparison drive and we’ll help you choose the best luxury SUV under $80k for your family and lifestyle. Get Directions » | Contact Sales | Schedule Service

Sources: INFINITI model and pricing info; curated industry lists and expert reviews (iSeeCars, TrueCar, MotorTrend, Car & Driver).