Yes, The $355 Umbrella Holder Is Real, And No, We Don’t Want It
About this episode
The In-Wheel Time Podcast dives into the 2025 Infiniti QX80, highlighting its luxurious features, impressive powertrain, and hefty price tag, including a $355 umbrella holder that raises eyebrows. The discussion also touches on the vehicle's spacious interior, advanced technology, and towing capacity. Following the review, the hosts explore the merits and drawbacks of six-wheeled vehicles, emphasizing their advantages in traction and stability, while also addressing maintenance challenges. The episode wraps up with a look at the Cadillac Ranch, a unique roadside attraction, and its artistic significance.
Big luxury meets real-world testing as we put the fully redesigned 2025 Infiniti QX80 Autograph through its paces and ask the question that matters: does six-figure comfort justify its place among Escalade, Navigator, and Grand Wagoneer? We break down the Autograph’s quilted-leather lounge, massaging seats in two rows, digital rearview mirror, and 14.3-inch infotainment, then pair it with hard numbers from the new twin‑turbo V6—450 hp, 516 lb‑ft, 8,500‑lb towing—and a calm, air‑suspended ride that makes interstate miles easy.
From there, we switch gears to the six‑wheel, three‑axle world and separate sizzle from substance. Better weight distribution, extra traction, and added stability make sense for heavy loads and deep sand or mud, but the price in complexity, repair logistics, and fuel or range drag is real. If you’ve ever wondered whether 6x6 is practical or just a flex, this segment gives you the trade-offs you need.
We also share two electric standouts. First, a sharp, long‑wheelbase performance EV with 615 hp that nails design and daily usability: a huge integrated screen, smart column shifter that frees console space, and confident acceleration. Then we move to Volvo’s EX40 Twin Motor Ultra—clean styling, pixel headlights, and a plush, quiet ride—balanced by a touch‑heavy interface that turns simple tasks into multi-tap routines. We compare charging times, cost per mile, and where each lands against Tesla Model Y Performance, Mustang Mach‑E GT, Ioniq 5 XRT, EQB, Q4 e‑tron, and GV60.
A quick stop at Cadillac Ranch reminds us why car culture still matters: specs are great, stories are better. If you’re weighing a luxury SUV or hunting for an EV that fits real life, you’ll leave with the numbers, context, and a clear sense of trade‑offs. Enjoy the ride, then share your pick with us—subscribe, leave a review, and tell a friend who’s shopping for their next set of wheels.
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Infiniti QX80
"...Mr. Mars has the Infiniti QX80 to talk about. The big Infiniti QX80. Now this is the 2025 Infiniti QX80 autograph trim level all-wheel drive."
The Infiniti QX80 is a large luxury SUV that offers a lot of space and comfort. The 2025 version has different versions to choose from, with the Autograph being the most luxurious option.
The Infiniti QX80 is a full-size luxury SUV known for its spacious interior and powerful performance. The 2025 model includes various trim levels, with the Autograph being the highest and most equipped variant.
all-wheel drive
"...this is the 2025 Infiniti QX80 autograph trim level all-wheel drive. Now there are four different trim levels."
All-wheel drive means that all four wheels of the car get power from the engine. This helps the car grip the road better, especially in rain or snow.
All-wheel drive (AWD) is a drivetrain system that powers all four wheels of a vehicle simultaneously, providing better traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions.
full-size SUV
"...but to me this is a very large full-size SUV, but your government says it is a standard. Now outside you're going to find a very large distinctive grille."
A full-size SUV is a big car that can carry a lot of people and stuff. It's larger than regular SUVs and usually has three rows of seats.
A full-size SUV is a larger vehicle designed for passenger and cargo capacity, often with three rows of seating. These vehicles typically offer more space and power compared to standard SUVs, making them suitable for families or those needing extra room.
LED headlights
"...you're going to find a very large distinctive grille. Got sharp LED headlights on it."
LED headlights are a type of car light that uses special lights to shine brighter and last longer than regular lights. They help you see better at night.
LED headlights use light-emitting diodes to produce light, offering better visibility and energy efficiency compared to traditional halogen bulbs. They also have a longer lifespan and can be designed in various shapes for aesthetic appeal.
liftgate
"Got a motion-activated liftgate, panoramic moonroof. Not a sunroof, but a moonroof."
A liftgate is the back door of an SUV that opens upwards, making it easier to load and unload items from the trunk.
A liftgate is a type of rear door that swings upward, allowing for easy access to the cargo area of a vehicle, particularly in SUVs and hatchbacks.
22-inch wheels
"22-inch wheels contribute to the luxury SUV look on it and the stance on it."
22-inch wheels are large wheels that can make a vehicle look more stylish and can also affect how it drives.
22-inch wheels refer to the diameter of the wheels on the vehicle, which can enhance the aesthetic appeal and performance characteristics, particularly in luxury SUVs.
heated and ventilated seats
"Front seats are heated, ventilated and massaging. The second row, another set of captain's chairs, are also heated, ventilated and massaging."
Heated and ventilated seats can warm you up in winter and cool you down in summer, making your ride more comfortable.
Heated and ventilated seats are features in vehicles that provide warmth in cold weather and cooling in hot weather, enhancing passenger comfort.
touch screens
"And there are touch screens back there for the passengers to use."
Touch screens are screens in cars that you can touch to control things like music and navigation, similar to a smartphone.
Touch screens in vehicles are interactive displays that allow passengers to control various features such as entertainment, navigation, and climate settings with a simple tap.
digital instrument cluster
"You're going to find the digital instrument cluster for the driver as well as a heads-up display. And it's got that digital rear-view mirror that I think just about everybody ought to go to."
A digital instrument cluster is a screen that shows important driving information instead of traditional dials. It can be changed to show different details like speed or navigation.
A digital instrument cluster replaces traditional analog gauges with a digital display, providing customizable information such as speed, fuel level, and navigation directions. This technology enhances visibility and can be tailored to the driver's preferences.
heads-up display
"You're going to find the digital instrument cluster for the driver as well as a heads-up display. And it's got that digital rear-view mirror that I think just about everybody ought to go to."
A heads-up display is a feature that shows important information right on the windshield so you can see it without taking your eyes off the road. It helps you focus while driving.
A heads-up display (HUD) projects important information onto the windshield, allowing drivers to see data like speed and navigation without looking down at the dashboard. This technology enhances safety by minimizing distractions.
wireless phone charger
"Technology, it's wireless phone charger. It's got a Google Apps in it, which gave me some issues because I like Apple CarPlay and I had to adapt not very well."
A wireless phone charger lets you charge your phone just by placing it on a special pad, so you don't have to use a cable. It's a handy feature in modern cars.
A wireless phone charger allows you to charge your smartphone without needing to plug it in. It uses electromagnetic fields to transfer energy between the charger and the phone, making it convenient for drivers.
Apple CarPlay
"It's got a Google Apps in it, which gave me some issues because I like Apple CarPlay and I had to adapt not very well. Android Auto."
Apple CarPlay is a way to connect your iPhone to your car, so you can use apps and music on the car's screen. It makes it easier to use your phone while driving.
Apple CarPlay is a feature that allows iPhone users to connect their devices to the car's infotainment system, enabling access to apps, navigation, and music directly through the car's display. It enhances the driving experience by integrating smartphone functionality.
Android Auto
"Android Auto. Now it did have the 24-speaker clips."
Android Auto is similar to Apple CarPlay but for Android phones. It lets you use your phone's apps and music on your car's screen, making it easier to drive safely.
Android Auto is a system that allows Android smartphone users to connect their devices to their car's infotainment system, providing access to apps, navigation, and music through the car's display. It enhances convenience and safety while driving.
24-speaker audio system
"Now it did have the 24-speaker clips. 24-speaker clips audio system."
A 24-speaker audio system means there are many speakers in the car, making the music sound really good. It helps you enjoy your favorite songs while driving.
A 24-speaker audio system in a vehicle provides an immersive sound experience, with multiple speakers strategically placed throughout the cabin to deliver high-quality audio for music and entertainment. This system enhances the overall driving experience.
V6 twin turbo
"We had a 3.5-liter V6 twin turbo, which is the only engine that's available. Up two because it's a variable compression on the turbo."
A V6 twin turbo engine has six cylinders and uses two turbochargers to boost its power. This setup helps the engine perform better while using less fuel.
A V6 twin turbo engine features six cylinders arranged in a V configuration and is equipped with two turbochargers, enhancing its power and efficiency. This type of engine is known for delivering strong performance while maintaining better fuel economy compared to larger engines.
nine-speed automatic
"It's up to 450 horsepower, 516 pound-feet of torque, backed by a nine-speed automatic."
A nine-speed automatic transmission changes gears automatically and has nine different settings. This helps the car drive smoothly and use fuel more efficiently.
A nine-speed automatic transmission allows for smoother gear shifts and improved fuel efficiency by providing more gear ratios. This helps the engine operate at optimal RPMs for various driving conditions.
horsepower
"It's up to 450 horsepower, 516 pound-feet of torque, backed by a nine-speed automatic."
Horsepower measures how powerful an engine is. More horsepower usually means the car can go faster and accelerate better.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement that indicates the power output of an engine. It reflects how quickly work can be done, with higher horsepower typically resulting in better acceleration and performance.
torque
"It's up to 450 horsepower, 516 pound-feet of torque, backed by a nine-speed automatic."
Torque measures how strong an engine is at moving the car. More torque helps the car accelerate faster and tow heavier loads.
Torque is a measure of rotational force produced by an engine. It is crucial for acceleration and towing capacity, with higher torque values providing better performance in these areas.
towing capacity
"So this vehicle can tow up to 8,500 pounds."
Towing capacity is how much weight a vehicle can pull safely. It's important for people who need to tow trailers or heavy things.
Towing capacity refers to the maximum weight a vehicle can safely tow. It is determined by the vehicle's engine power, transmission, and structural design, and is important for those who need to haul trailers or heavy loads.
EPA
"Now the EPA says in the city you should be looking for 16 highway 19 combined 17."
The EPA is a government agency that measures how many miles a car can drive on a gallon of fuel. This helps you know how fuel-efficient a car is.
The EPA, or Environmental Protection Agency, sets fuel economy standards and ratings for vehicles in the United States. These ratings help consumers understand how efficient a vehicle is in terms of fuel consumption.
air-ride suspension
"One thing about the ride handling, it does have the air-ride suspension, so the highway ride is smooth."
Air-ride suspension is a type of car suspension that uses air instead of metal springs. It makes the ride smoother and can be adjusted for comfort.
Air-ride suspension uses air-filled bags instead of traditional springs to support the vehicle's weight. This allows for adjustable ride height and improved comfort, especially on highways.
V6
"It's pretty quiet unless you really hammer that V6."
A V6 is a type of car engine that has six cylinders. It's known for being powerful while still being relatively fuel-efficient.
A V6 engine has six cylinders arranged in a V shape. This configuration provides a good balance of power and efficiency, making it popular in many vehicles.
base model price
"Now, base model price, $82,450. But just wait, just hold on."
The base model price is the lowest price you can pay for a car without any extras. It doesn't include things like special features or upgrades.
The base model price refers to the starting price of a vehicle without any additional features or options. This is the price before any add-ons or optional features are included.
base trim price
"But just wait, just hold on. Base trim price, $109,900."
The base trim price is the cost of a car that includes some basic features but not all the extras. It's usually higher than just the base model price because it might have more included.
The base trim price is the cost of the vehicle at its most basic level, which may include some standard features but not any optional upgrades. This price is often higher than the base model price if additional features are included.
Cadillac Escalade
"...like Escalade that starts at $88,100. The Lincoln Navigator starts at $99,995..."
The Cadillac Escalade is a large luxury SUV that offers a lot of space and high-end features. It's known for being a status symbol and is often seen as a premium vehicle.
The Cadillac Escalade is a full-size luxury SUV known for its spacious interior, advanced technology, and powerful performance. It is often associated with luxury and status, making it a popular choice among affluent buyers.
Lincoln Navigator
"...The Lincoln Navigator starts at $99,995, which surprised me. Or even the new Jeep Grand Wagoneer..."
The Lincoln Navigator is another large luxury SUV that provides a lot of comfort and features. It's designed for people who want a spacious and upscale vehicle.
The Lincoln Navigator is a full-size luxury SUV that offers a combination of comfort, advanced technology, and powerful engine options. It is designed for those who want a high-end driving experience with plenty of space.
Jeep Grand
"... at $99,995, which surprised me. Or even the new Jeep Grand Wagoneer that starts at $84,945. So this is the ..."
Willys Jeep
"... at $99,995, which surprised me. Or even the new Jeep Grand Wagoneer that starts at $84,945. So this i..."
Jeep Grand Wagoneer
"...99,995, which surprised me. Or even the new Jeep Grand Wagoneer that starts at $84,945. So this is the new Infin..."
Jeep Wagoneer
"...Or even the new Jeep Grand Wagoneer that starts at $84,945. So this is the new Infiniti QX80..."
The Jeep Grand Wagoneer is a new luxury SUV that offers both off-road ability and upscale features. It's designed for people who want a mix of adventure and comfort.
The Jeep Grand Wagoneer is a luxury SUV that combines rugged off-road capability with high-end features and technology. It is a revival of the classic Wagoneer nameplate, aimed at competing in the luxury SUV market.
six-wheel drive vehicles
"...six-wheelers, six-wheel drive vehicles, why is it important?"
Six-wheel drive vehicles have six wheels instead of the usual four. This helps them grip the ground better, especially in tough conditions like mud or snow.
Six-wheel drive vehicles are equipped with six wheels, providing enhanced traction and stability compared to standard four-wheel drive systems. They are often used in off-road applications or for heavy-duty tasks where additional grip is necessary.
vehicle drag
"Well, we all know it's bigger. Bigger is better. This means the driving of vehicle with six wheels can feel slower, clunkier, and sluggish."
Vehicle drag is the force that slows a car down as it moves through the air. It can make cars use more fuel and go slower, especially when driving fast.
Vehicle drag refers to the aerodynamic resistance a vehicle encounters as it moves through the air. This resistance affects fuel efficiency and overall performance, particularly at higher speeds.
vehicle weight
"Well, we all know it's bigger. Bigger is better. This means the driving of vehicle with six wheels can feel slower, clunkier, and sluggish."
Vehicle weight is how heavy a car is. Heavier cars need more power to move, which can make them slower and use more fuel.
Vehicle weight is the total mass of a vehicle, which significantly impacts its performance, fuel efficiency, and handling. Heavier vehicles require more power to accelerate and maintain speed.
fuel consumption
"Heavy vehicles also consume more fuel. So since more power is required to move that big weight, you need more fuel."
Fuel consumption is how much gas a car uses when driving. Heavier cars usually use more gas because they need more power to move.
Fuel consumption refers to the amount of fuel a vehicle uses to travel a certain distance. Heavier vehicles typically consume more fuel due to the increased power needed to move them.
Chevrolet Camaro
"...It comes in three trim levels, LT, RS, and SS."
The Chevrolet Camaro is a type of sports car that is known for being fast and stylish. It comes in different versions called trim levels, like LT, RS, and SS, which offer different features and performance options.
The Chevrolet Camaro is a popular American muscle car known for its performance and sporty design. It offers various trim levels, including LT, RS, and SS, each with different features and performance specifications.
wheelbase
"The wheel base on it is like a limousine. It seats five. This year, the new SS trim debuts."
Wheelbase is how far apart the front and back wheels are on a car. A longer distance can make the ride smoother and give more room inside, but it might be harder to turn in tight spaces.
Wheelbase is the distance between the front and rear axles of a vehicle. A longer wheelbase can contribute to a smoother ride and more interior space, but it can also affect maneuverability.
fastback
"Fastback, sloping roofline with integrated sunshade over the rear glass. What I liked about it, the big wheel well filling the wheel wells with tires and it looks good."
A fastback is a type of car shape where the back of the car has a smooth, sloping roof that goes down to the rear. It looks sleek and helps the car move through the air better.
A fastback is a car design where the roofline slopes continuously from the front of the vehicle to the rear, creating a streamlined appearance. This design often enhances aerodynamics and can improve fuel efficiency.
infotainment screen
"...interior highlights include 17-inch huge infotainment screen that melds behind the instrument cluster screen. Works well."
An infotainment screen is like a big touchscreen in your car that lets you listen to music, get directions, and connect your phone easily.
An infotainment screen is a multimedia display in a vehicle that provides entertainment, navigation, and connectivity features. It integrates various functions like audio control, GPS navigation, and smartphone connectivity into one interface.
Tesla Ss Model
"...ed $64,180. You can get in one of these, not the SS model, for $44.6. If you're in for an EV, I would defi..."
The Tesla Model S is a high-end electric car that can go really fast and drive far without needing to stop for gas. It's packed with modern technology, making it a popular choice for those who want a stylish and eco-friendly vehicle.
The Tesla Model S is a luxury all-electric sedan known for its high performance, long range, and cutting-edge technology. It has set benchmarks in the electric vehicle segment, often praised for its acceleration and innovative features.
Ford Gt Model
"Okay. The GT model, which you would compare this one that I drove. ..."
The Ford Model T is one of the first cars that regular people could afford to buy. Made a long time ago, it changed how cars were made and helped many families get their own vehicle.
The Ford Model T, produced from 1908 to 1927, is often regarded as the first affordable automobile, revolutionizing transportation and manufacturing with its assembly line production. Its significance lies in its role in making car ownership accessible to the masses.
Tesla Model
"And in fact, let's just do it that way. The Tesla Model Y compares favorably to it. The performance mode..."
The Tesla Model Y is a small electric SUV that can go really fast and has a lot of space inside for passengers and cargo. It's popular because it doesn't need gas and can drive a long way on a single charge.
The Tesla Model Y is a compact electric SUV that offers impressive performance, spacious interior, and advanced technology features. It has gained popularity for its long electric range and rapid acceleration, making it a strong contender in the electric vehicle market.
Ford Excursion
"... She was a baby and I was out there on a business excursion and I said, I got to do it. So here we go."
The Ford Excursion is a really big SUV that can fit a lot of people and stuff. It's great for families or anyone who needs to tow heavy things, but it's also quite large and can be hard to park.
The Ford Excursion is a large SUV that was produced from 2000 to 2005, known for its massive size and towing capacity. It was designed for families needing ample space and capability, often favored for its ruggedness and utility.
Cadillac DeVille
"...th a 1949 club sedan and ending with a 1963 sedan deville were driven to one of Stanley Marsh's fields and ..."
The Cadillac DeVille is a big, fancy car that was made for a long time and is known for being very comfortable. It's often seen as a symbol of luxury in American cars.
The Cadillac DeVille is a full-size luxury car that was produced for several decades, known for its classic styling and comfort features. It has been a symbol of American luxury and is often discussed for its historical significance and design.
Volvo XC40
"...w for 2025, but it's all based on the last year's XC40. So they took the XC40, they kind of rebuilt it ..."
The Volvo XC40 is a small luxury SUV that is designed to be safe and comfortable. It has a stylish look and comes with features that help keep you and your family secure while driving.
The Volvo XC40 is a compact luxury SUV that emphasizes safety, practicality, and Scandinavian design. It is known for its comfortable ride, advanced safety features, and a range of efficient powertrains, including electric options.
Mercedes-Benz EQB
"...e MSRP as tested. Mercedes-Benz equivalent is an EQB, which used to be a GLB for $53,050. Audi QE Tro..."
Mercedes-Benz GLB
"...des-Benz equivalent is an EQB, which used to be a GLB for $53,050. Audi QE Tron for $49.8 and the Gene..."
The Mercedes-Benz GLB is a small luxury SUV that has a lot of room inside and nice features. It's made to be both practical for daily use and stylish for those who want a fancy car.
The Mercedes-Benz GLB is a compact luxury SUV that offers a blend of practicality and upscale features, including a spacious interior and advanced technology. It is designed to compete in the growing SUV market while maintaining the brand's reputation for luxury.
Genesis GV60
"... $53,050. Audi QE Tron for $49.8 and the Genesis GV60 at $52,350. So it's in the same price as all the..."
The Genesis GV60 is a fancy electric SUV that looks nice and has lots of cool tech inside. It's designed to be comfortable and safe while being good for the environment since it runs on electricity instead of gas.
The Genesis GV60 is a luxury electric SUV that combines elegant design with advanced technology and performance. It is part of Genesis's push into the electric vehicle market, offering features like a high-quality interior and innovative safety systems.
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