You should start — and end — your day properly. This sentiment resonates deeply, especially when life presents unexpected challenges. Navigating demanding situations requires a sanctuary, a space that offers respite and control. For me, the Genesis GV80 3.5T Prestige served as exactly that – a luxurious haven amidst demanding times. Priced starting around $59,000, with our test model reaching approximately $72,000, the GV80 isn’t just an SUV; it’s an experience, a carefully crafted environment designed to elevate your everyday. After exhausting days, sinking into the quilted leather seats of the GV80, connecting to a calming playlist, and embarking on a drive offered a welcome sense of peace. Whether it was a simple dinner pick-up or a longer escape, the GV80 provided a crucial element: tranquility and a sense of command in a hectic period.
Genesis GV80 luxury SUV front view, showcasing its elegant design and distinctive grille.
Setting Your Daily Standard with the Genesis GV80
The importance of setting a positive tone for the day cannot be overstated. Without my usual routines, the Genesis GV80 became instrumental in establishing a sense of normalcy and control each morning. A quick drive to a local coffee shop transformed into a ritual of luxury. Sinking into the GV80’s opulent quilted leather seats, interacting with the jewel-like infotainment controller, and feeling the textured metal dials were tactile reminders of returning to routine and sophistication. The lush leather steering wheel further enhanced this sensory experience, providing a tangible connection to quality and refinement. Starting the day within the GV80’s embrace shifted focus from immediate burdens to a broader, more positive outlook, setting a standard of elegance and composure.
Genesis GV80 rear view, highlighting its sleek taillights and sophisticated design details.
Genesis Pedigree: A New Era of Luxury Leadership Embodied in the GV80
The Genesis GV80 is more than just assembled components; it’s a culmination of deep industry expertise and a profound understanding of luxury car drivers. While mimicking materials and technology is possible, Genesis delves deeper, considering the driver’s mindset, status, and emotional needs. The result is an SUV that intuitively anticipates desires, evoking a sense of personalized luxury. This intuitive design stems from the collective experience of the Genesis design team. Comprising individuals who have shaped vehicles for numerous luxury and mainstream brands globally, their expertise is unmistakable. Even if unfamiliar with Hyundai, Genesis’ parent company, or Kia, another member of the Hyundai family, you’ve likely encountered designs influenced by this very team.
Hyundai’s strategic assembly of a design and engineering dream team over the last decade underscores their commitment to luxury. The pivotal hiring of Peter Schreyer in 2008, renowned for shaping Audi’s iconic design language, marked a turning point. His influence extended beyond aesthetics, fostering design discipline and attracting top talent, propelling the South Korean automaker onto the global stage. Recognizing the necessity of a luxury marque, Hyundai birthed Genesis. This evolution led to Genesis establishing its own distinct model range, design ethos, and customer experience. The leadership team spearheading this venture is impressive: Albert Biermann, formerly of BMW engineering; Luc Donckerwolke, with design credentials from Lamborghini and Volkswagen Group; and Mark Del Rosso, previously with leadership roles at Audi, Bentley, and Lexus, as President of Genesis North America. José Muñoz, Hyundai’s global COO and North American President, a key figure in the success of Nissan and Infiniti, provides overarching guidance. This assembly of industry giants instills confidence in the entire Genesis GV80 experience.
Close-up of Genesis GV80 center console, showcasing the quilted leather detailing and luxurious materials.
Genesis GV80: A Distinct Look and Feel
The Genesis marque is defined by its distinct aesthetic, immediately recognizable in the GV80. While adhering to the familiar SUV silhouette, closer inspection reveals unique details that elevate it. The slim, wraparound headlights and taillights, slashing across the vehicle’s corners, are instantly identifiable. At the front, these lights frame the signature diamond mesh grille and the winged Genesis badge. The GV80’s rear design exudes understated elegance, aligning with luxury SUV standards through its refined simplicity. The Genesis name is subtly spelled across the tailgate, framed by the taillights. Discreet spoilers integrated above and below the rear window add to the sophisticated effect. The GV80’s design language prioritizes refined elegance over ostentation, communicating luxury through subtle sophistication. But how does this elegance translate to the driving experience?
Genesis GV80 puddle lamp illuminating the ground, highlighting a detail of its exterior lighting.
Genesis GV80: Elegance and Confidence on the Road
Confidence is a fundamental expectation in any vehicle, but the Genesis GV80 delivers an elevated sense of assurance. The Prestige edition I experienced epitomized this, equipped with a potent 3.5L V6 twin-turbo engine generating 375 horsepower, sumptuous Nappa leather seats, and an array of advanced driver-assistance technologies. This combination allowed for both relaxed commutes, where the GV80 effortlessly managed traffic, and exhilarating drives on winding roads. When the desire for spirited driving arises, the GV80 responds instantly. A tap of the accelerator unleashes its power, providing confident and rapid acceleration, eliminating any hesitation in merging or overtaking. The driving experience is both enjoyable and reassuring.
Genesis GV80 blind spot monitor indicator in the side mirror, demonstrating safety technology.
Genesis GV80 Interior: Quilted Leather, Suede, and Premium Amenities
Luxury vehicles promise an exceptional interior experience, and the Genesis GV80 Prestige delivers unequivocally. From the quilted Nappa leather seating and microsuede headliner enveloping the cabin, to the heated and cooled rear seats and rear vanity mirrors, the GV80 is replete with premium features. (Confession: the rear seat did become a temporary stress-free sanctuary!). However, front-seat occupants are equally indulged, particularly with optional upgrades like the head-up display and the Lexicon sound system, which I found particularly enriching. Immersing oneself in high-fidelity audio within the GV80’s cabin is a powerful antidote to stress.
The infotainment scroller and controls are standout features for both front passengers. The scroller, reminiscent of a fine watch, features a textured metal bezel surrounding a luminous crystal surface, inviting touch. Similarly, the textured metal dials exude quality. Open-pore wood trim provides a natural counterpoint to the leather, chrome, and gloss black accents, creating a harmonious and refined aesthetic. The overall ambiance is one of sophisticated elegance.
Genesis GV80 interior view, showcasing the spacious cabin, leather seats, and panoramic sunroof.
Genesis GV80 rear seat control panel, allowing passengers to adjust the front passenger seat.
Genesis GV80: Loved Features
The Genesis GV80 is packed with thoughtful features that enhance the driving and passenger experience:
- Adjustable Headrests: Forward and back adjustment accommodates various head positions and hairstyles.
- 3D Driver Information Display: A visually engaging and informative digital instrument cluster.
- Touch-Sensitive Climate Control: Integrated into the angled command center for easy access and visibility.
- Customizable Steering Wheel “Star” Button: Personalize shortcuts to favorite radio stations, voice memos, navigation cancellation, privacy mode, or phone toggling.
- Infotainment Dial: Versatile control via finger gestures, taps, or handwriting recognition.
- Dual-Panel Panoramic Sunroof: Opens from both sides, offering customizable ventilation and light.
- Head-Up Display: Projects essential information like speed limit, vehicle speed, and proximity to vehicles ahead.
- Under-Floor Cargo Storage: Adds discreet storage space in the cargo area.
- Rear Passenger Front Seat Controls: Rear occupants can adjust the front passenger seat for added space or convenience.
- Rear Seat Vanity Mirrors: A thoughtful touch for rear passengers.
- Electric Rear Seats: Power folding, reclining, and adjustable from both rear doors and cargo area.
- Rear Climate and Entertainment Controls: Dedicated climate controls, heated/cooled seats, USB ports, and a household outlet for rear passengers.
- Optional Third Row: Provides added passenger capacity when needed.
Genesis GV80 rear seat control panel close-up, highlighting controls for climate and seat adjustments.
Genesis GV80: Cost Considerations
Genesis offers a range of GV80 models, each generously equipped and customizable with engine choices, AWD, and upgrade packages:
- GV80 2.5L Turbo (Base Model): Starting around $48,900 (RWD) or $54,650 (AWD). Features include a 300 HP 4-cylinder turbo engine, LED lighting, parking sensors, hands-free liftgate, leatherette seats, heated power front seats, 8” driver information screen, 14.5” infotainment screen, premium audio, dual-zone climate control, rain-sensing wipers, and comprehensive driver-assistance and safety systems.
- GV80 3.5L Turbo: Starting around $59,650. Upgrades to a 375 horsepower V6 twin-turbo engine, standard AWD, panoramic sunroof, 20” wheels, and wireless phone charging, among other enhancements.
- GV80 3.5L Advanced: Starting around $65,55. Adds leather seating, heated second-row seats, surround view camera, remote ‘smart’ parking, optional third row, blind spot view monitor, and head-up display.
- GV80 3.5L Advanced Prestige (Tested Model): Approximately $72,995 (including destination charge). Further elevates luxury with 22” wheels, Nappa leather seats, microsuede headliner, 12.3” driver information screen, power side window shades, cooled second-row seats, and second-row vanity mirrors.
Genesis GV80 rear seats with electric controls visible, emphasizing the power-adjustable seating.
Genesis GV80: Essential Insights
- Hot Metal Dials: The command center’s metal dials can become hot in direct sunlight; allow the interior to cool or park in shade.
- Trim Level Navigation: Utilize the Genesis Concierge service for detailed trim level information due to potential website navigation complexities.
- Fuel Economy: Estimated 18 MPG city, 23 MPG highway.
- Fuel Recommendation: Premium fuel recommended but not mandatory.
- Complimentary Maintenance: 3 years, including service valet.
- Warranty: 5 year/60,000 mile warranty, 10 year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty.
Genesis GV80 panoramic sunroof, showcasing its dual-panel design and open configuration.
Genesis GV80: Autonomous Parking Demonstration
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Genesis GV80: A True Luxury Haven
A significant investment in a luxury vehicle should yield complete satisfaction. The Genesis GV80 competes in a crowded segment against rivals like the Cadillac XT6, Lincoln Aviator, BMW X5/X7, Audi Q5/Q7, Mercedes-Benz GLE/GLS, Volvo XC90, Lexus RX, and Infiniti QX60. In many trim levels, the GV80 offers comparable features at a more accessible price point. At an as-tested price of around $72,000, the GV80 presents a compelling value proposition, delivering true elegance and luxury without excess. The Genesis GV80 makes luxury not just attainable, but an integral part of everyday driving.
Genesis GV80 front end, emphasizing its bold grille, slim headlights, and overall luxurious presence.
By Scotty Reiss
