The Genesis GV80 offers an appealing blend of style, technology and performance, all while costing less than its German and Japanese competitors, making it a smart strategy for wealthy customers looking for more in life. is.
With dynamic exterior styling complemented by a sporty, high-tech interior and upscale ride and handling characteristics, the GV80 fits well into the country club set.
Inside the cabin, you’ll find evidence of meticulous craftsmanship. Luxurious leather, elegant matte wood accents, and a high-resolution display create a modern, luxurious feel. Genesis matches the attention to detail shown by Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Lexus. The seats are wide and well supported. There is a pad where the driver’s right knee might come into contact with the center console.
The ‘Driver-Centered UI’ layout optimizes ergonomics, and features such as Digital Key 2 enable convenient vehicle access from your smartphone.
State-of-the-art collision avoidance technology is standard. Forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and bicycle detection, blind spot warning, rear cross traffic alert, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assist all work well.
The driving experience is rewarding. Our tester was included as an option. The 375-horsepower turbocharged V6 engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic that shifts almost imperceptibly. Mild hybrid systems do not improve fuel economy, but are used to provide instantaneous torque and minimize turbo lag.
A turbocharged 300-horsepower four-cylinder is standard and includes the same hybrid system, but a luxury car should feel like it has power to spare, and the V6 delivers.
The cabin is well isolated from noise, vibration and discomfort. Handling has to be good in this niche, and the GV80 has it. On winding roads, the SUV feels planted. Moderately weighted steering and minimal body roll add to the taut handling feel.
Despite its premium nature, Genesis offers attractive pricing. The lineup consists of four trims: Standard, Select, Advanced, and Prestige, with prices ranging from $61,000 to $76,000. The base model comes loaded with features, including a 14.5-inch touchscreen, navigation, and leather upholstery. At the same time, upper trims are equipped with luxury items such as soft-close doors, premium audio, and massage seats.
What’s not to like? First of all, fuel economy is lackluster. With an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 16 mpg with the optional 3.5L twin-turbo V6, the GV80 ranks last among the 14 most popular competitors.
Fuel economy is one of the reasons Consumer Reports ranks the GV80 11th in its class. Reliability is another matter. Readers have complained about various minor issues. All are covered under warranty, but buyers in this price range can’t afford a visit to the dealer.
The magazine also disparages Genesis. Because the Genesis is the crown jewel of the Kia-Hyundai family, which has a horrifying and expensive past with internal combustion engines these days. The GV80 is subject to a recall due to its tendency to fail and interrupt charging of the 12-volt battery that powers everything from turn signals and headlights to brakes and steering.
People who buy a $70,000 car can probably afford gas, but a penny wasted is a penny wasted. For a few dollars more, you can also opt for a Lexus RX or BMW X5 plug-in hybrid. Both connect overnight and allow drivers to travel more than 30 miles a day without using gas.
Once that is depleted, the hybrid gas system operates seamlessly. The Beemer delivers 50% better fuel economy, and the Lexus RX gas-electric hybrid delivers more than twice the fuel economy of the GV80.
More importantly, Lexus and BMW hybrids combine gas and electricity to create incredible power. The Genesis would look like a Conestoga wagon in a three-car drag race.
Bottom line: While we always enjoy our Genesis visits, we found ourselves more than happy to rip off $20 bills at gas stations. Add in reliability issues, and there are concerns that resale value will decline faster than its competitors.
Genesis GV80 (Photo courtesy of Genesis)
Genesis GV80 (Photo courtesy of Genesis)
