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2026 INFINITI QX80 SPORT: A Fusion of Athleticism and Opulence

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The 2026 INFINITI QX80 SPORT emerges as a significant contender in the luxury SUV market, showcasing a complete overhaul from its predecessor. This newly introduced trim level for INFINITI's flagship full-size, body-on-frame SUV combines robust performance with an elevated sense of luxury and a distinctive athletic appearance. Designed to accommodate up to seven passengers, it directly challenges established rivals in the upscale utility vehicle segment. The enhancements span from a more potent powertrain to a meticulously redesigned interior and an innovative adaptive suspension system, all contributing to a driving experience that prioritates both dynamic capability and passenger comfort. This model signifies INFINITI's commitment to pushing boundaries in automotive design and engineering, offering a sophisticated and powerful option for discerning buyers.

Scheduled for release in late summer 2025, the 2026 INFINITI QX80 is a full-size, body-on-frame luxury SUV engineered to seat seven occupants comfortably. This vehicle enters a competitive arena, aiming to surpass models such as the Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Yukon Denali, and Cadillac Escalade. A cornerstone of INFINITI's product portfolio, the new QX80 boasts a thoroughly revamped interior. Key interior highlights include heated and ventilated seating for the first and second rows, with the option of heated third-row seating, a first for the model. This meticulous attention to passenger well-being across all rows is intended to establish a new paradigm for luxury within the brand. The 2026 QX80 will be offered in several distinct trims: PURE, LUXE, the new-for-2026 SPORT, and AUTOGRAPH, each catering to varying preferences for luxury and features.

Under the hood, INFINITI has moved away from the previous V8 engine, opting instead for a more efficient and powerful twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6. This new engine delivers an impressive 450 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, coupled with a 9-speed automatic transmission that can power either the rear wheels or all four wheels. While sharing its fundamental powertrain and platform with the Nissan Armada, especially its performance-oriented NISMO variant, the QX80 is distinctly refined to emphasize luxury and a sporty character, diverging from the Armada's more utilitarian focus.

For enhanced ride dynamics, higher-tier trims feature an Electronic Air Suspension system, complemented by Dynamic Digital Suspension. This advanced system allows the vehicle to automatically lower by 1.2 inches at higher speeds, optimizing aerodynamics. When stationary, the suspension can descend by 2.8 inches to an 'Easy Access' level, facilitating effortless entry and exit for passengers and simplified cargo loading. Conversely, for off-road excursions, the system can raise the QX80's ride height by 2.1 inches above its normal setting. Despite its luxurious appointments, the QX80 retains its SUV utility, capable of towing up to 8,500 lbs when properly equipped. It also includes an innovative 'Trailer Blind Spot Warning' system, effective for trailers up to 33 feet in length. Unlike some competitors that offer multiple size variants, INFINITI maintains a single, comprehensive QX80 model with a unified powertrain, streamlining the ownership experience.

The 2026 INFINITI QX80 SPORT trim distinguishes itself with a bold, dark-themed aesthetic, featuring blacked-out exterior elements and a uniquely styled interior. This includes a revised front grille, a redesigned front bumper, and exclusive 22-inch wheels. The darkened accents extend to the exterior trim, mirror caps, lower bumper finishers, roof rails, and emblems, creating a cohesive and assertive visual statement. Inside, the SPORT treatment introduces a distinctive Dusk Blue color scheme, accentuated by dark matte chrome finishes, a graphite headliner and pillars, and open-pore wood trim on the instrument panel and doors. The seats are outfitted with black and blue inserts, featuring a unique diamond-pattern perforation across all three rows. The QX80 SPORT is available in several exterior colors, including Mineral Black, Radiant White, Grand Blue, or Dynamic Metal, with the latter three offering an optional contrasting Black Obsidian roof for added stylistic flair.

According to Tiago Castro, vice president of INFINITI Americas, the QX80 continues to set new benchmarks in luxury SUV design and technology, driving strong sales. Castro highlights that the 2026 SPORT grade is a direct response to luxury drivers' desire for a distinctive presence, dramatically amplifying the QX80's "Artistry in Motion" with its sleek, blacked-out appearance.

The 2026 INFINITI QX80 is slated to arrive at dealerships in late summer 2025, with a starting manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $83,750. Building on the impressive redesign of the Nissan Armada, there is considerable anticipation that the new QX80 will also deliver an exceptional driving and ownership experience. Automotive reviewers are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to conduct evaluations, promising that comprehensive insights into its performance and features will soon become available to the public.

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Noel Gallagher's Bespoke Jaguar MKII Convertible Finds New Owner

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A remarkable 1967 Jaguar MKII, uniquely converted into a convertible for the renowned musician Noel Gallagher, has recently been acquired by a new enthusiast. This extraordinary vehicle, originally a sedan, underwent a meticulous transformation in the 1990s at Gallagher's request. Its journey from a custom build to a highly sought-after classic highlights its distinctive blend of British elegance and rock-and-roll allure. Despite its celebrated original owner never taking the wheel, this automotive masterpiece has graced various significant events and media, cementing its status as a cultural artifact beyond a mere automobile.

In the mid-1990s, at the height of Oasis's fame, Noel Gallagher conceived a vision for a personalized vehicle. Although he did not possess a driver's license at the time, his desire for a custom car was paramount. He collaborated with Vicarage, a specialist in Jaguar vehicles, to undertake an ambitious project: converting a 1967 Jaguar MKII sedan—the same year as his birth—into an exclusive convertible. The conversion, spanning two years, involved significant modifications, including the removal of the rear doors and the extension of the front doors to create a sleek two-door silhouette. Gallagher’s specifications for modernization included an entirely electric folding roof, power steering, electric windows, and an automatic transmission, aiming to enhance the car's driveability and comfort beyond typical MKII standards. Ironically, despite these tailored features, Gallagher himself never drove the car, leaving its occasional outings to his then-wife.

This bespoke Jaguar spent much of its existence in careful storage, yet it periodically emerged into the public eye, capturing attention. Its unique presence was showcased in a music video for Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, where actor Matt Smith, known for his role in 'Doctor Who', was seen at its helm. More recently, in 2022, Jaguar Land Rover Classic obtained the car and prominently featured it during Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations. During this prestigious event, the iconic model Twiggy was observed enjoying the back seat. These high-profile appearances, ranging from a rock music video to a royal jubilee, significantly elevated the car's profile, solidifying its identity not just as a collector's item but as a cherished symbol of British culture.

Adorned in a lustrous black finish, complemented by a lavish red leather interior and gleaming chrome wire wheels, this Jaguar radiates sophistication. Its original sedan architecture ensures ample space, comfortably accommodating four adults along with their luggage. More than simply a low-mileage collector's item, Noel Gallagher’s custom Jaguar MKII Convertible stands as a testament to a unique intersection of 1990s rock royalty and enduring British tradition. With its sale now finalized, this exceptional vehicle is poised to embark on its next chapter, continuing its storied legacy with a new custodian who will undoubtedly appreciate its unparalleled heritage.

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Hyundai Ioniq 9: A Comprehensive Review of the Electric SUV

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The Hyundai Ioniq 9 stands as a significant leap in the electric SUV market, showcasing Hyundai's commitment to combining practicality, advanced technology, and environmental consciousness. This deep dive explores its various facets, from performance and daily usability to its spacious interior, offering a candid assessment of its strengths and minor drawbacks.

Experience the Future: Hyundai Ioniq 9, Redefining Electric Family Travel

Initial Impressions: A Promising Contender in the Electric SUV Segment

Hyundai's latest and largest electric SUV, the Ioniq 9, largely fulfills its promise as a versatile and capable vehicle. While certain design elements might spark debate, its overall performance, particularly as a family and pet-friendly option for long journeys, is exceptional. My personal experience left me thoroughly impressed with its capabilities.

Unveiling the Hyundai Ioniq 9: Features and Market Positioning

Sharing its E-GMP platform with the Kia EV9, the Ioniq 9 is a three-row electric SUV with a starting price around $59,000 for the RWD 'S' trim, escalating to $77,000 for the premium 'Calligraphy Design' model. Despite the shared underpinnings, the Ioniq 9 distinguishes itself with a unique driving character, aesthetic, and overall feel. The SEL trim, priced around $67,000, offers a wealth of features. Its cargo capacity surpasses that of vehicles like the Volkswagen ID. Buzz, and it boasts a substantial towing capacity of up to 5,000 lbs, showcasing robust specifications for a full-size electric SUV. Although it presents a shift in consumer mindset towards electric vehicle ownership, the Ioniq 9 compensates with an excellent range across all configurations and supports the NACS charging standard.

Driving Dynamics and Power Configurations of the Ioniq 9

The Ioniq 9 offers a range of powertrain options designed to suit diverse needs. The RWD 'S' variant is equipped with a motor generating 160 kW (215 hp), delivering an estimated range of 335 miles on a single charge. For enhanced power and all-wheel-drive capability, the 'SE' and 'SEL' trims feature a more potent motor producing 226.1 kW (303 hp), with an estimated range of 320 miles. The top-tier 'Limited,' 'Calligraphy,' and 'Plus' models boast a high-performance AWD system, outputting 314.6 kW (422 hp) and offering an estimated range of 311 miles. Additionally, the Ioniq 9 supports ultra-fast charging, capable of reaching 10% to 80% charge in just 24 minutes using a 350 kW DC fast charger, and is compatible with Tesla Superchargers through NACS integration.

Real-World Versatility: Family, Pets, and Extended Journeys

My experience with the SEL trim revealed its spirited acceleration, even with the mid-range powertrain. While its handling can feel somewhat top-heavy when pushed, the ride comfort is exceptional. The vehicle's substantial weight, primarily located low, reinforces a sense of stability. Hyundai has masterfully engineered the Ioniq 9 for everyday practicality, with features like advanced lane-keeping technology proving invaluable on account of its generous 199.2-inch length and an elongated 132.2-inch wheelbase. Long-distance travel, such as a 200-mile round trip, showcased its impressive efficiency, retaining 20% battery from a 75% start. The abundant space, especially with the third row folded, comfortably accommodated two dogs (weighing 50 and 75 lbs), with easy access for less agile pets due to a convenient load-in height. The cabin is thoughtfully equipped with numerous storage compartments, USB-C ports, and cup holders, enhancing its family-friendly appeal.

Interior Design and Practical Cargo Solutions

The Ioniq 9's interior is a testament to contemporary design, featuring an open, airy cabin complemented by a sophisticated curved display that seamlessly integrates twin 12.3-inch screens for instrumentation and infotainment. Although my SEL model lacked the 'Relaxation Seats' found in higher trims, it still provided superior comfort. The second-row bench offered ample room, while the third row is ideally suited for children or shorter adults. The cargo versatility is remarkable: 21.9 cubic feet of space behind the third row expands to 46.7 cubic feet with the third row folded down. With all rear seats stowed, a vast 87 cubic feet of cargo area becomes available. Furthermore, a modest 3.1 cubic feet frunk is present in the RWD version, shrinking to 1.8 cubic feet in AWD models.

Concluding Thoughts on the Hyundai Ioniq 9's Market Position

Hyundai's ongoing advancements in EV engineering are evident in the Ioniq 9, positioning it as one of the most compelling large electric SUVs currently available. While its exterior design may polarize opinions, and the gear selector placement could be improved, the vehicle excels in nearly every other aspect, including comfort, technological integration, and impressive range. The base RWD model, in particular, offers significant value. It would be fascinating to see Hyundai explore performance-oriented 'N' or rugged 'XRT' variants in the future. As it stands, the Ioniq 9 is a robust, family-ready EV that demands very few compromises from its owners.

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