2020 Ford Expedition vs 2021 Genesis GV80

The 2020 Ford Expedition, last redesigned in 2018, was a full-size SUV known for its clean styling, which some considered boring. However, this simplicity was seen as an advantage for longevity, appealing to those planning to keep the vehicle for many years. The King Ranch edition featured distinctive 22-inch aluminum wheels, a mesh grille insert, LED headlights, and unique grey-painted lower exterior trim, with special emblems denoting its status. The Star White metallic paint added to its appeal, though some design elements like the taillights and C-pillar were less favoured. Inside, the King Ranch boasted Del Rio leather in Mesa over Ebony, adorned with King Ranch logos, though the presence of hard plastics, especially in lower trims, was a downside for a vehicle in this price range.

The 2021 Genesis GV80, as Genesis's first SUV, was a fresh design without the constraints of a legacy design language. It successfully integrated styling cues from the G80 sedan, featuring a long hood, short front overhang, and a distinctive grille with a "Quad Lamp" LED headlight array. The GV80's design was both elegant and innovative, with big wheel arches and Quad Lamp taillights echoing the front design. The interior was a highlight, with a sleek, uncluttered dashboard, a bridge-like centre console, and authentic materials like real wood and leather. The GV80's cabin was a testament to luxury, offering a sophisticated and technologically advanced environment.

The 2020 Ford Expedition was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 engine, delivering 375 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 470 pound-feet of torque at 2,250 rpm. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided ample power and a pleasant exhaust note. The Expedition's 4WD system was standard in Canada, offering a towing capacity of up to 4,173 kilograms for the standard model. Despite its size, the Expedition was surprisingly agile, with a tight turning radius and effective brakes, though the steering was slow. The adaptive damping suspension on the King Ranch model improved ride quality, though the large wheels sometimes resulted in a busy ride. The independent rear suspension enhanced ride comfort and interior space, setting it apart from competitors. Fuel consumption was rated at 14.1 L/100 km city, 10.6 highway, and 12.5 combined.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 with 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. Both engines came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and AWD. The GV80's ride was enhanced by an electronically controlled suspension with road preview on the 3.5T models, which used a camera to predict road conditions. The 2.5T engine was lively but could feel strained, while the 3.5T was smoother and quieter, aided by active noise cancellation. Fuel consumption for the 2.5T was 11.3 L/100 km city, 9.5 highway, and 10.5 combined, while the 3.5T was rated at 12.9 L/100 km city, 10.4 highway, and 11.8 combined.

The 2020 Ford Expedition excelled in towing, cargo, and passenger capacity. The King Ranch model featured power running boards for easy access, with comfortable heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The second-row captain’s chairs offered first-class comfort, and the third-row seat was genuinely comfortable for adults, thanks to the independent rear suspension. Cargo space was 546 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,672 litres with the third row folded, and 2,962 litres with the second row down. The Expedition MAX offered even more space, with 971 litres behind the third row and 3,440 litres with all seats folded.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 was a sophisticated vehicle with a technologically advanced interior. The centre console featured a rotary gear selector and a multimedia controller with a knurled metal finish. The HVAC control panel used capacitive touch buttons with intelligent masking to prevent accidental misuse. The second row was spacious and comfortable, with available power seats and window shades. The third row, standard on 3.5T models, increased passenger capacity to seven and featured a power-fold function. The GV80's interior was a blend of luxury and technology, offering a premium experience for occupants.

The 2020 Ford Expedition's infotainment system featured an 8-inch touchscreen with Sync 3, which was user-friendly but occasionally slow. It included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, along with FordPass Connect with a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. A Bang & Olufsen premium sound system and a rear-seat entertainment system were available. The Pro Trailer Backup Assist was a notable feature for those who frequently tow, simplifying trailer manoeuvring.

The 2021 Genesis GV80's infotainment system was a highlight, featuring a 14.5-inch HD touchscreen with user-configurable split-screen displays. It supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with cloud connectivity for over-the-air updates. The system allowed for individual user profiles and included a digital key function for Android users. Genesis Connected Services offered a range of features, including remote start and emergency assistance. A head-up display and a 12.3-inch 3D digital instrument cluster were available, enhancing the driving experience. The Lexicon Quantum Logic Surround audio system with 21 speakers was a standout feature.

The 2020 Ford Expedition was equipped with Ford Co-Pilot360, a suite of safety features including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot warning. Adaptive cruise control was optional. The Expedition received 5-star ratings in NHTSA crash tests, with a 4-star rollover rating.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 was a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS and received a five-star rating from NHTSA. It featured 10 airbags, including a front-centre airbag, and a range of driver assistance features such as blind-spot collision avoidance and forward collision-avoidance assist. Adaptive cruise control with machine learning and highway-driving assist were also included, along with Remote Smart Parking Assist.