Best trailer hitch and towing accessories for the Infiniti QX80 Luxe?

Question

Hey everyone! I recently upgraded to a 2023 Infiniti QX80 Luxe, and I’m absolutely loving the power and luxury so far. Now that camping season is right around the corner, I’m planning to finally put that 8,500-lb towing capacity to good use. We just picked up a 24-foot travel trailer that weighs about 5,800 lbs dry, so I want to make sure I have the absolute best setup for a smooth, safe haul.

Since the Luxe trim comes with the integrated hitch receiver, I’m mostly looking for recommendations on the best weight distribution hitches and specific accessories that pair well with the QX80’s rear self-leveling suspension. I’ve heard mixed things about using certain weight distribution systems with the hydraulic leveling system, and I definitely don't want to cause any mechanical issues or weird handling.

I’m also on the hunt for a high-quality brake controller. I know some people prefer the plug-and-play types, but I’m curious if there’s a specific brand that fits cleanly into the QX80’s dash without looking like an eyesore or getting in the way of my knees. Additionally, if anyone has found extended side mirrors that actually fit the QX80’s bulky mirror housings without vibrating like crazy at highway speeds, please let me know!

I’m willing to invest a bit more for quality and peace of mind—my budget for the hitch and controller setup is around $800–$1,000. I really want to avoid that 'white-knuckle' driving feeling when a semi-truck passes us on the interstate.

For those of you who tow regularly with your QX80, what specific weight distribution hitch and brake controller setup have you found to be the most reliable and 'set-it-and-forget-it' for long road trips?

LewisEvasp · Accepted Answer

sooo I've been towing with my QX80 for a few years now and i totally get the concern about the rear air leveling. basically, the truck levels itself after you hook up, so if you crank down a weight distribution hitch (WDH) too hard, youre fighting the hydraulics. the trick is to hook up, let the truck level, then set your bars for sway control mostly.

Here's what I recommend to stay under that $1k budget:

• For the hitch, look at the Blue Ox SwayPro Weight Distribution Hitch BXW1000. It's about $650-700 and honestly, it's a lifesaver with the self-leveling suspension because it's super easy to adjust the tension.

• For the brakes, dont cut the dash! Get the Tekonsha P3 Electronic Brake Controller 90195. It's like $140 and basically the industry standard. Use the Tekonsha 3040-P Brake Controller Wiring Harness for a literal 5-minute plug-and-play install.

• Mirrors are tough, but the Milenco Grand Aero3 Towing Mirrors are the only ones that dont vibrate like crazy on these big housings.

Seriously, this setup keeps me under $900 and no white-knuckle driving even when semis fly by. gl! 👍

zrnethrrqy · Answer

Ok so, I've been towing heavy rigs for over fifteen years and honestly, safety is the only thing that matters when you're hauling 6,000 lbs. For the QX80's self-leveling setup, you NEED a hitch that handles sway without over-stressing the hydraulics. I highly recommend the Blue Ox SwayPro Weight Distribution Hitch BXW1000. It uses spring bars that tension easily, and in my experience, it's way more forgiving on the Infiniti's rear sensors than the rigid-bracket types.

For the brake controller, skip the bulky dash units. Go with the Redarc Tow-Pro Elite V3 Electric Brake Controller. You hide the main brain under the dash and just pop a tiny, factory-looking knob into one of your blank switch panels. It's super clean and won't hit your knees! Also, for mirrors, KSource Snap & Zap Custom Towing Mirrors 80930 are basically the only ones that don't vibrate like crazy on the highway. Stick to these and you'll avoid that white-knuckle feeling for sure. gl! 👍

wjvevdzlqo · Answer

Quick question—I've been towing with my Infiniti for about five years now and seriously, it's such a beast, but the setup makes a HUGE difference in how it feels on the road. Before I jump in with my thoughts on the budget-friendly gear that's worked for me, I wanted to check a couple things first.

* Do you know what the total weight will be when you're fully loaded up with water and all your camping gear? That 5,800 lbs dry weight can jump up real fast once you add all your stuff for a long trip.
* Also, are you looking for a brake controller that's totally hidden, or are you okay with something small mounted near your knee?

Basically, I wanna make sure I suggest something that won't blow your budget but still keeps things stable when the wind picks up or a semi flies by. I remember my first trip was a bit nerve-wracking lol, but once I got the settings dialed in, it was smooth sailing... just wanna get those details first!