The Genesis GV80 debuted four years ago as the first sports utility vehicle from Hyundai’s luxury brand, and was an immediate success, drawing praise from everyone from safety watchdogs to engineering firms.
For longtime rivals Acura, BMW, Lexus, Lincoln and Mercedes-Benz, the dealer-free automaker, whose cars were sold at Hyundai stores, had become a new and powerful competitor.
Some consumers may still consider the Genesis to be Hyundai’s top-of-the-line executive car, just as it was until 2016.
Problems remain for Genesis, which split off from Hyundai the same year the EQ900 was launched in the U.S., and steadily, but not quickly enough, the brand’s personality has developed.
In August, Genesis announced it would open 21 new dealerships in the state, bringing its national dealership count to 56. Hyundai has more than 80 dealerships in California.
This is one of the reasons why onlookers are taking notice of the 2025 GV80, a midsize luxury SUV, and asking, “Who makes Genesis? I’ve never seen one.”
Not really: The revamped luxury people mover comes with a few changes for the 2025 model year, and the automaker has taken a vehicle that already offers a smooth, quiet ride, premium interiors, and great technology, and made it all even better.
The 2025 Genesis GV80 is available with two engines: the 2.5T and the reviewed 3.5T, the latter of which is powered by a 375-horsepower 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6.
Genesis buyers don’t seem to care much about fuel economy, but that may be the car’s only drawback. Fuel economy is estimated at 16 miles per gallon in the city, 22 mpg on the highway and 19 mpg combined. All-wheel drive is standard, and both powertrains come with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Standard equipment includes 19″ wheels, LED headlights, a suite of driver assistance features, a hands-free power liftgate, seating for five, and eight-way power heated front seats. Leatherette upholstery, a power tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel, four USB-C ports, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a new 27″ infotainment digital cluster screen give the Genesis even more capability. Pricing for the base model starts at $59,050.
The 3.5T Prestige is even more luxurious. An electronic limited-slip differential, Nappa leather seats, ventilated second-row seats and three-zone climate control add even more versatility and comfort. Power rear side sunshades, power soft-close doors and active noise cancellation make the Genesis a formidable challenger to well-heeled competitors. The 3.5T V6 Advance trim starts at $75,150 and is the only model with a third-row seat. Adding options brings the price to $80,650.
Sport utility vehicles used to be all about practicality, but now the largest segment in the industry, this is moving towards executive vehicles. Who would have expected everything from premium leather seats to inlaid wood, ambient lighting and even mini fridges in a box on wheels?
Genesis hasn’t forgotten its SUV heritage, and for hauling luggage, the GV80’s cargo area is roomy and easy to use. The second row has a 40/20/40-split configuration and folds flat with the push of a button. The same system is available for the third row of seats, available on V6 models.
Like other three-row SUVs, the Genesis is a great fit for smaller adults and children. The area is accessible and comfortable, and the waist-high seating arrangement enhances the compact space. Large windows and a surround-view camera system make the third row appealing despite its tight space.
What is Genesis and who makes it? Currently, there are nine vehicles in the Genesis lineup: four sedans and five SUVs, including the electrified G80 sedan and GV70 SUV. The GV80, like all vehicles, deserves to be seen, because seeing is good.
James Raia is a Sacramento automotive columnist who also writes sports, travel and lifestyle articles for several publications. Email: james@jamesraia.com.