2023 Genesis GV80 Review: A Baby Bentley?
Genesis' rise has been one for the books; from humble roots, the brand now offers some of the most balanced semi-luxury and luxury cars, and with the GV80, the first-ever luxury SUV from the automaker, Genesis has garnered an extensive following. The GV80 looks and feels like a premium European offering, but one look at its price tag and you'd probably feel like it's a scam; this car is surprisingly affordable, especially when you consider that it does so many things as well or better than established competitors such as the BMW X5, Audi Q7, or the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class. The GV80 is powered by a punchy 2.5-liter turbo engine with 300 horsepower, or for a few more bucks, you can get a 375-hp turbocharged V6 engine - and, at the top of the line, this SUV will cost around the same as a base model from German rivals. This car oozes luxury and power - Genesis has cracked the luxury SUV code with this one.
What's the Price of the 2023 Genesis GV80?
The price of the new Genesis GV80 starts at $55,550 before a $1,095 destination charge. Although not a separate model, the Advanced version of the 2.5T comes with some added features and asks for $6,500 more. The Prestige variant of the 2.5T requires an outlay of $67,300.
The 3.5T starts at $62,700, with the Advanced and Prestige upgrades costing $6,200 and $12,400, respectively. The Prestige Matte adds $13,900 to the 3.5T's base price. The only seven-seater in the range is the 3.5T AWD Advanced+, with an MSRP of $70,600 before options and other charges.
2023 GV80 Exterior
Dimensions
| Length | Wheelbase | Height | Max Width | Front Width | Rear Width | Curb Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 194.7 in | 116.3 in | 67.5 in | 77.8 in | 65.9 in | 66.5 in | 4,850.0 lbs |
2023 GV80 Performance
2023 Genesis GV80 Handling and Driving Impressions
Whereas the BMW X5 prides itself on its dynamic handling ability, cars like the GV80 and Audi Q7 lean more towards providing mega comfort and confidence from behind the wheel, and few do it better than the GV80. Last year you still had the option of going RWD or AWD, but this year the GB80 is exclusively available as an AWD car, giving it a more sure-footed feeling that ties in perfectly with its comfortable driving dynamics.
This is a car built for cruising on city streets and bombing down the highway: when cruising at lower speeds, this SUV soaks up bumps with aplomb, and its optional adaptive suspension system makes things even silkier. Throw it around a set of corners, and it won't protest, but it won't thrill either; the focus here is on coddling the occupants, not entertaining them.
2023 GV80 Interior
2023 GV80 Trunk and Cargo Space
Warranty
| Basic | Drivetrain | Corrosion | Roadside Assistance | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 Years / 60,000 Miles | 10 Years / 100,000 Miles | 7 Years / Unlimited Miles | 5 Years / Unlimited Miles | 3 Years / 36,000 Miles |
Verdict: Is The 2023 Genesis GV80 A Good SUV?
Two years from launch, and the GV80 has proven that it is a top-quality product. Not only is it a reliable piece of equipment (more reliable than the competing GLE, according to J.D. Power), but it also exquisitely combines premium materials, excellent build quality, and sharp contemporary styling in a package that won't decimate your bank balance. From its Bentley-esque exterior styling to its beautifully crafted interior, the GV80 is as luxurious as the best Europe has to offer, and it's a tech powerhouse too, with all the latest gadgets and driver assistance systems making it onto the feature list. Combine that with a beautifully supple chassis and a range of punchy turbo engines, and you have yourself a winner, at a price that is quite reasonable.
What 2023 Genesis GV80 Model Should I Buy?
Genesis isn't expecting any more than 30 percent of its customers to choose the four-cylinder engine, and there's a good reason for that. The V6 is a strong engine that does the big Genesis GV80 SUV justice. Those selecting the four-cylinder model now get all-wheel drive as standard, and the benefits that come with it, including wireless charging and a heated steering wheel. Upgrading this model to one of the available packages gives you a comfortable, well-specced SUV. For most of those who are shopping for a large luxury SUV, the base model is compelling given the long list of standard features for a reasonable price. However, those that would otherwise be shopping for a German luxury brand should go straight for the 3.5T and enjoy all the goodness it brings. They can then add the Advanced package with the panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, and the excellent Lexicon 21-speaker audio system. They will still come out saving money while driving something directly comparable.