Genesis GV80: Over ten years ago, Hyundai debuted its first specifically designed premium vehicle in the United States under the moniker Genesis. In 2015, it separated into a separate brand and began selling sedans. The 2021 GV80 was the first SUV produced by a Korean carmaker, and despite being a push into an uncharted market, it proved to be a game-changer for the company. With unique style, competent performance, a wealth of features, and an opulent feel equal to its German counterparts at a cheaper starting cost, it distinguishes out in a crowded sector.
With one significant exception, there aren’t many modifications for the 2023 model year. The Genesis GV80 2.5T’s rear-wheel drive model has been discontinued. All-wheel drive is now standard on all vehicles. Genesis pricing has had to adjust for inflation, just like every new car in the United States market. Prices start at $56,645 for the standard 2023 Genesis GV80 2.5T and go up to $76,695 for the GV80 3.5T Prestige Matte before options and other charges are considered.
Even though the GV80 has gained popularity since its release, it is still a newcomer in a market dominated by established competitors like the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE, Volvo XC90, Lexus RX, and Lincoln Nautilus. Unlike some of its rivals, Genesis hasn’t yet offered a hybrid, but it has started to roll out all-electric choices elsewhere, including the Electrified GV70, Electrified G80, and GV60 SUV. Like other gas-powered Genesis vehicles, the GV80 achieves a respectable but unimpressive combined fuel efficiency of 22 mpg on the 2.5T and 20 mpg on the 3.5 T.
The GV80 has two turbocharged engines: a 375-horsepower 3.5-litre V6 in the 3.5T model and a 300-horsepower 2.5-litre inline-four in the 2.5T variants. Although neither produces best-in-class performance figures, they both provide dependable and snappy acceleration, with the 2.5T reaching 60 mph in around 6 seconds and the 3.5T doing it one second quicker. Both are smooth engines. However, we believe some of its European rivals’ powertrains are more refined than the GV80. With the introduction of the 2023 model year, both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic and all-wheel-drive (AWD) as standard.
The GV80 is attractive and standout-looking, incorporating a prominent “crest” grille, quad head, and taillights from the brand’s portfolio. The quarter windows above the cargo area have an S-shaped design, another distinguishing feature. With quilted leather seats and minor features like machine-knurled knobs, the GV80’s interior competes well with its European rivals. On extended rides, the front seats are roomy and quite comfy. A second-row bench is standard, but captain’s chairs and a smallish third-row are optional. However, you will give up some cargo room for more child-size seats. Similar to the previous Lexus RX-L, two rows are ideal for sampling the GV80.
The GV80 excels in several areas, including technology, which helps it appeal to younger, tech-savvy consumers. On the list is a novel approach to active noise management that can muffle wind, engine, and road noise. The Korean automaker’s “active motion” technology, which modifies air cells to lessen driver fatigue, is available for those quilted front seats. Additionally, owners may customize driving preferences for different drivers using their smartphones, and there is an intelligent parking option. Lastly, Genesis includes many active safety features as standard equipment, whereas its German rivals charge extra for features like adaptive cruise control.
What’s new?
- All models are currently only available with all-wheel drive.
- The SOS button has been changed to red
- Change the multimedia controller.
- Redesigned cup holders in the second row
- The 2.5T Advanced specification includes ventilated seats and a panoramic sunroof.
- Two new colours: Makalu Gray and Makalu Gray Matte
- Oil life management with the addition of an oil life sensor
Performance: Genesis GV80
The midsize G80 sedan’s drivetrain choices (as well as its fundamental platform design) are shared with the 2023 Genesis GV80. Like that vehicle, it handles well, has a comfortable ride, and has pleasant road manners while not being very sporty. However, Forbes Wheels has tested the GV80’s moderate off-road capabilities several times over the last two years. This is due to its increased ground clearance and standard AWD.
Two engines are offered: a 3.5-liter turbocharged V6 with 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque and a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-four with 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. Both engines share an eight-speed automatic. The 2.5T gets you to 60 mph in around 6 seconds, while the 3.5T does it about a second sooner. Acceleration is reasonable if not a segment standard.
The GV80 is not a serious off-road vehicle, but with its 8.1 inches of ground clearance, all-wheel drive, and soft suspension, it can do some minor off-roading. In recent years, we’ve taken two GV80s to off-road obstacle courses and found it relatively simple to navigate the mild terrain, rocks, and moguls. Notably, the GV80 has terrain settings on versions sold in other countries but not in the United States. The GV80 will get you to that alpine lake or trailhead if you keep it modest, but dedicated rock crawlers may choose the Lexus GX (even if it isn’t quite as pleasant to drive on pavement).
Fuel efficiency: Genesis GV80
The fuel efficiency of many cars in this category is often poor. Even if Genesis is neither the poorest nor the most excellent vehicle in its class, the lack of a hybrid option doesn’t help the situation. The 2.5T turbo-four achieves 22 mpg in 20 cities and 24 highways. The turbo-six 3.5T achieves 20 incorporated, 18 cities, and 23 highway mpg, a decrease of around two mpg.
While the X5 xDrive 50i with the turbocharged V8 is rated at 18 mpg combined, 16 cities, and 22 combined, the BMW X5 xDrive40i with a turbocharged six provides a comparable 23 mpg combined, 21 cities, and 25 highway. The Mercedes-Benz GLE350 4Matic with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine achieves ratings of 21, 20, and 24 mpg, respectively, while the GLE450 4Matic with a turbocharged six-cylinder engine achieves ratings of 22, 20, and 25 mpg. The Volvo XC90 with the turbo-four hybrid B5 engine, which has EPA ratings of 25 mpg combined, 22 cities and 28 highways, has the best fuel efficiency. The GX above from Lexus gets a dismal 15 mpg on the road.
However, the X5 xDrive 45e from BMW has a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) option. With the electric motor and gasoline engine functioning together, it is capable of 50 MPGe (Miles Per Gallon Equivalent) and has a range of 30 miles on electricity alone.
Safety & Driver Support
Adaptive cruise control, blind spot warning, and Genesis’ Highway Driving Assist II, a partially autonomous active driving assistance function, are just a few examples of the many advanced driver assistance systems, or ADAS. Although it doesn’t go as far as Cadillac’s Super Cruise, which allows for hands-free operation on specific roads, it enables you to keep a gentle touch on the steering wheel. Super Cruise will be available as a $2,500 option on the Cadillac XT6 in 2023. However, many of the GV80’s rivals charge extra for even essential adaptive cruise control.
With the SmartPark feature, you may leave a tight parking space and let the vehicle roll in independently. Ten airbags are also included, one of which is in the middle of the front row, to lessen the possibility of passengers colliding with one another in the event of a collision. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awards the GV80 a Top Safety Pick+ certification, while the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gives it a five-star overall rating.
Comfort and Space
The GV80’s interior is neatly and tastefully designed, with touches like burlwood trim and metal accents, and has a somewhat restrained, minimalist vibe. To reduce tiredness on lengthy drives, the seats may be customized with an “active motion” system that automatically alters air cells to modify your posture gently. The midsize crossover segment’s interior is one of the roomier ones.
Maximum legroom in the second row of the GV80 is 38.7 inches. In contrast, the X5 measures 37.4 inches, while the XC90 measures 37 inches. Legroom in the back seats is best for the GLE at 40.9 inches in this category. The GV80’s optional third row, which only has 30 inches of legroom, falls into the penalty box category. The XC90 provides 31.9, while the X5 gives 31.2. The GV80 has a total passenger capacity of 108.7 cubic feet.
Infotainment: Genesis GV80
The 2023 Genesis GV80 shines in this situation. Along with a large digital gauge cluster, the instrument panel has a 14.5-inch touchscreen mounted above the centre stack. The capacity to show many tasks concurrently is only one benefit of the widescreen format. Thanks to the Digital Key feature, the GV80 may be used without a keyfob. Several additional drivers may use its smartphone app.
Four USB ports are present: two in the front (one for charging, one for charging and data) and two in the rear (one for charging alone). In addition, you can upgrade the GV80’s base 12-speaker sound system, which is already a respectable arrangement, with a 21-speaker Lexicon audio system. However, there are drawbacks due to the absence of wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and an internal WiFi hotspot. An active noise reduction system that mutes engine, road, and wind noise is one of the other technological elements.
Storage & Cargo Space:
The 2023 Genesis GV80 offers passenger space and a sizable luggage capacity. There are 84 cubic feet of room for cargo when all the seats are folded down except the front row. It still measures an astounding 34.9 cubic feet with the second row up. The Volvo XC90 has 65.5 and 35.6 cubic feet, the X5 has 72.3 and 33.9, while the GLE has 67.8 and 41.4.
However, cargo capacity is reduced to 11.6 cubic feet when all three seats are used (the third row is only available with the 3.5T). In comparison, the Volvo has 12.6 cubes. Additionally, the cabin has several storage niches and beverage holders.
Design: Genesis GV80
The 2023 Genesis GV80 stands apart in a market filled with SUVs and crossovers that are becoming more and more similar. The GV80’s distinctive quad head and taillamps work well with its imposing “crest” grille, which may look slightly out of place to some. Additionally, a swoopy beltline crease, lower bodyside contouring, and the fast rake of the roof and side glass region from the B pillar back combine to provide a striking look. Although the two vents placed on the fenders beyond the holes for the front wheels and intended to follow through on the headlights often look superfluous, the design is functional despite seeming cluttered.
The cabin is beautiful and spotless inside. The knurling on different control knobs is one example of the attention to detail in Genesis’ products that other manufacturers may take note of. The materials feel finer than those in many direct competitors, and the delicate chrome accents and meshes would look at home in any of this SUV’s European rivals. Despite the lost entrance cost, neither the driver nor the passengers ever know that expenses have been reduced. This reasonably priced luxury crossover seems to live in a more affluent area.
Is the 2023 Genesis GV80 Worth It?
Much as Lexus and Infiniti did when they entered the market 30 years ago, Genesis has established itself as a “value” luxury brand. Although not inexpensive, the GV80 outstrips rivals like the BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE in terms of pricing. That becomes even clearer when you contrast the list of essential features on the Korean crossover with the options list for many of the same features seen on European models. The 2023 Genesis GV80 is unquestionably a superb choice for someone looking for a midsize luxury crossover, thanks to its strong performance and eye-catching appearance.
The $56,645, including destination, essential 2023 Genesis 2.5T I4 AWD could be your best choice if you want to get into a large, luxurious midsize crossover at a reasonable price. For the price, it has a lot to offer. The GV80 3.5T V-6 AWD is a good option for more amenities and better performance. The top-of-the-line Prestige and Advanced+ versions are still affordable compared to comparable European options for consumers seeking a fully outfitted crossover.
How Much Does the 2022 Genesis GV80 Cost to Insure?
The GV80’s insurance premiums are comparable to most of its rivals. The average yearly premium for a top-tier 3.5T for a typical 30-year-old female driver with a clean record ranges from $2,546 to $2,750, albeit this average covers all 50 states. Comparatively, the Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 costs $2,442, the GLE 450 costs $2,822, the Volvo XC90 costs $2,250, and the BMW X5 xDrive40i costs $2,742.
Genesis GV80 Generations
First Generation
2021 to current
The first SUV produced by the high-end brand was the Genesis GV80. Six years after the brand’s 2015 debut, it was released for the 2021 model year. Naturally, it had many distinguishing features of its sedan brothers, such as the crest grille, the quad lights, and the parabolic line that runs from the front to the rear of the car, and it still does. Only a few modifications have been made for the 2023 model, with removing the rear-wheel drive option, a standard feature for the 2.5T model, possibly the most significant. Both of the SUV’s powertrains are now all-wheel drive.
Verdict
With prices beginning at $56,645 (including a $1,095 delivery charge) and going up to nearly $75,500, the 2023 Genesis isn’t cheap, but it has a price edge over rivals like the BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE. Additionally, you won’t feel like performance or features are being sacrificed. The GV80 is a luxurious crossover that comes well-equipped, particularly in higher-end trims like the 3.5T Prestige. The GV80 stands out from a sea of similar crossovers because of its unique inside and out-appearance. However, the fact that Genesis goods often rank at the top of the lists in terms of quality and dependability may be what appeals to prospective customers.
