2023 Genesis GV80

The GV80’s interior design is just as if not more impressive than the SUV’s exterior. Real wood and metal trim are found throughout the cabin, while the dashboard’s simple, but elegant look stands out against competitors that have a more cluttered design. The center console’s floating design, two-pronged steering wheel, and flowing lines on the doors are some of our favorite design elements in the cabin.

Supremely Comfortable. While some midsize SUVs have engines with supercar levels of power and track-oriented suspension, the GV80 prioritizes comfort and is all the better for it. Two-row models have incredibly plush seats that remain comfortable and supportive on long drives. With 38 inches of second-row legroom, adults can stretch out in the back, with the available 3.5T Prestige trim upping the ante with features like power window shades, power-adjustable second-row seats that are heated and ventilated, and second-row vanity mirrors.

The GV80 is available with a third row, as long as you get the 3.5T Advanced+ trim, for extra versatility, but it’s not the roomiest seat in the class. They’re best left for children, though kids are sure to outgrow them fairly quickly. Genesis’ decision to only offer the third row with the 3.5T Advanced+ trim is confusing, as it requires consumers in need of seven seats to spend $71,695 (with destination).

Loaded With Features. Regardless of trim, the GV80 comes brimming with features that makes competitors look overpriced. Even the base GV80 comes with a large 14.5-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, 12 audio speakers, a wireless charging pad, a digital key app, dual-zone automatic climate control, power-adjustable front seats, a hands-free power liftgate, heated front seats, and 20-inch wheels. It’s a great list of standard features that makes the GV80 a strong value option in the midsize segment.

The GV80 comes with some high-tech features as standard, but there are a few oddities that make the SUV a little annoying to live with. The SUV’s central touchscreen is placed within the dashboard, which makes it hard to reach for the driver. Instead, Genesis fits the SUV with an infotainment controller that’s been redesigned for 2023. Instead of sitting flush within the center console, the infotainment controller is now like a traditional dial that’s raised to be easier to use. The problem with the infotainment controller is that it’s only located a few inches away from the transmission dial and both feel similar to use.

You really can’t go wrong with any GV80 model, as the SUV undercuts its main competitors from Germany, while bringing more features. The main question about choosing the perfect GV80 has a lot to do with engine than features.

All-Wheel Drive Now Standard. Genesis has made all-wheel drive (AWD) standard for the 2023 model year. This means the GV80 is far more expensive than before – pricing starts at $56,645, which is $5,400 more than last year – but we suspect AWD was something that most consumers paid extra for anyways. So, most people will be happy to see it come as standard.

The GV80 is available with two turbocharged engines that deliver strong performance. The base turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine will prove to be the most popular choice. It delivers 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque for peppy performance. For most people, the four-cylinder engine has more than enough grunt, and with the GV80 being a comfort-first SUV, spirited performance really isn’t its thing.

For an extra $7,150, the GV80 can be fitted with a turbo 3.5-liter V6 engine. It brings 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. The result is nearly a second quicker in the sprint to 60 mph, though it brings worse fuel economy figures. The four-cylinder engine can get up to 22 mpg combined, while the V6 is rated at 20 mpg combined. Both engines are mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission that operate smoothly.

We’d pocket the extra $7,000 and stick with the base four-cylinder engine. Instead, we’d use it to upgrade to a higher trim level to get some of the GV80’s more opulent features instead of the modest performance upgrade.

Final Thoughts. There’s nothing to complain about with the 2023 Genesis GV80. It looks like a Bentley, drives like a true luxury SUV, and comes packed with high-tech features. All of this comes at a price that undercuts its competitors. The GV80 is a special SUV in a segment that’s filled with mundane competitors.

For an SUV that thinks it’s a sports car, you’ll want to check out the Porsche Cayenne. It’s available with powerful engines, delivers athletic handling, and has a premium interior. The Cayenne is only available as a two-row SUV.

The Volvo XC90 is another favorite in the midsize segment. It has upscale styling, a premium cabin, efficient four-cylinder engines, and an available plug-in hybrid powertrain. Volvo offers the XC90 with nearly every safety feature imaginable as standard.

Check prices for the 2023 Genesis GV80 »