2023 Genesis GV80 3.5T AWD Prestige
12/26/2023
Shahed Hussain
Synopsis
Review
Originally launched as a primarily luxury sedan brand, Genesis has expanded its SUV lineup gradually over the past few years. The compact GV60 EV is the newest addition, slotted below the midsize GV70, and topped by the full-size GV80. For 2024, Genesis simplified the GV80 lineup to six models: GV80 2.5T AWD Standard, Advanced and Prestige, or the GV80 3.5T AWD Advanced, Prestige, and Prestige Signature. Pricing starts at $57,450 (2.5T Standard) to $81,500 (3.5T Prestige Signature). We tested the 2023 GV80 3.5T AWD Prestige ($76,195); an equivalent 2024 model has an MSRP of $77,000.
Standard equipment on the 3.5T includes Nappa leather seating, digital instrument cluster, 3-zone climate control, heated/ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, Lexicon(R) audio system, navigation, Android Auto(TM), Apple CarPlay(R), electronic limited-slip differential, power folding 3rd row seats, and panoramic sunroof. Safety technologies are comprehensive: forward collision-avoidance assist, lane following assist, smart cruise control, blind-spot collision-avoidance assist, rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist, and rearview camera.
Both GV80 powerplants are all-aluminum, dual overhead cam, and turbocharged. The 2.5L inline-4 is rated for 300-hp @ 5,800 RPM and 311 lb.-ft. @ 1,650 RPM. Opting for the direct-injected twin-turbo V-6 raises output to 375-hp @ 5,800 RPM and 391 lb.-ft. @ 1,300 RPM. Power is sent to all four wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission. The EPA fuel consumption estimates are 20/24 MPG (city/hwy.) for the inline-4 and 18/23 MPG (city/hwy.) with the V-6. Both powertrains are rated for 6,000 lbs. towing capacity.
The GV80 uses an independent multi-link suspension at both front and rear axles. Rear suspension self-leveling compensates for cargo and towing loads. Vented disc brakes are all four wheels: 15.0 in. dia. rotors (front) and 14.2-in. dia. rotors (rear). Steering is via a motor-assisted variable-ratio rack-and-pinion system. The tested 2023 GV80 Prestige had Michelin Primacy Tour A/S tires (265/50R20) mounted on 20-in. alloy wheels. 2024 GV80 Prestige models get larger 22-in. alloy wheels. Curb weight for the GV80 3.5T is a substantial 5,009 lbs.
As the flagship SUV in the Genesis lineup, the interior has the expected premium materials and excellent build quality. The power-adjustable quilted leather front seats are supportive and comfortable. Front and rear headroom is acceptable for occupants up to 6 ft. tall. Although second-row legroom is adequate, the third row is best suited for children and short trips.
The GV80's configurable digital gauge cluster has a simulated analog speedometer and anti-clockwise tachometer. Audio, phone and cruise controls are integrated on the steering wheel. We found the dual-spoke steering wheel difficult to grip securely, forcing us to rest our hands above the spokes. Dual paddles behind the steering wheel enable manual gearshifts on demand. Navigation and infotainment functions are displayed on a 14.5 in. touchscreen set above the dash. Infotainment and HVAC buttons are clustered around the climate control display. Located on the center console are the electronic transmission mode knob and infotainment rotary controller.
As expected from a luxury SUV, the GV80 suspension is tuned for a compliant ride. Most bumps and potholes are absorbed by the electronically-controlled suspension, but the 20-in. wheels sometimes "thunk" over pitted Michigan roads. We would not recommend upgrading to the larger 22-in. wheels due to the expected reduction in ride quality. Slow steering turn-in response is a reminder that this is a heavy luxury SUV. The GV80 tracks relatively accurately, but minor steering corrections are necessary to maintain lane position. Around curves and onramps, the chassis exhibits moderate body roll and understeer, encouraging a relaxed pace. The GV80's big brakes deliver reassuringly quick stops with a firm pedal and progressive actuation. Minimal wind, tire and engine noise enhance the luxury SUV experience.
The turbo V-6 delivers excellent low speed thrust, but there is a short delay before the turbos spool up. At highway speeds, throttle response is immediate, but the GV80's substantial weight and brick-like aerodynamics result in leisurely acceleration. Around town, we usually set the transmission in Sport mode for quicker downshifts. In Sport mode, the transmission will not shift automatically beyond 6th gear, but 7th or 8th gear can be selected manually using the steering wheel paddles. For highway cruising, leaving the transmission in Normal mode is the best option.
As the top SUV in the Genesis range, the GV80 is aimed at its Lexus, Mercedes, Audi and Cadillac competition, and is priced accordingly. From a value perspective, we think the GV80 2.5T Advanced is the best option for most customers, offering most essential luxury equipment for just under $64K. If you're interested in an alternative to mainstream premium SUVs, the GV80 is worth considering.
