2021 Genesis GV80 vs 2021 Toyota RAV4

The 2021 Genesis GV80, as a new entrant in the SUV market, had the advantage of a fresh design approach, unburdened by a long legacy of design language. This allowed Genesis to innovate and establish its signature look, which was evident in the GV80's elegant two-box design. The SUV featured a long hood, short front overhang, and a distinctive grille with a diamond mesh and the Genesis flying “G” badge. The Quad Lamp LED headlight array and the rear Quad Lamp taillights added to its unique aesthetic. Inside, the GV80 boasted a luxurious interior with real wood, metal, and leather, complemented by a sleek, uncluttered dashboard and a 14.5-inch high-definition display.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 adopted a rugged exterior design, reminiscent of traditional SUVs, with boxy fender flares and chiseled taillights. This aggressive styling set it apart from other compact crossovers, appealing to buyers seeking a more adventurous look. However, beneath its bold exterior, the RAV4 was built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, shared with other Toyota models. The interior featured functional touches like large rubberized knobs and door handles, but material quality did not elevate with higher trims. The RAV4 offered a practical and straightforward cabin, though it lacked the luxury feel of the GV80.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 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 were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. The GV80's 3.5T models featured electronically controlled suspension with road preview, enhancing ride comfort. The 2.5T engine provided sufficient power for most driving situations, while the 3.5T delivered a smoother and more powerful experience, aided by active noise cancellation.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 came with a single 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, generating 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available. The engine achieved impressive thermal efficiency, but the transmission's hesitancy and lack of steering feel detracted from the driving experience. While the RAV4 excelled in highway comfort, its off-road capabilities were enhanced in Trail and TRD Off-Road models, which featured torque-vectoring all-wheel drive and increased ground clearance.

The 2021 Genesis GV80's interior was a blend of technology and luxury, with a rotary gear selector and a circular multimedia controller. The second row offered ample space for two adults, with power-adjustable seats and window shades available. The 3.5T models included a third row, increasing passenger capacity to seven. The GV80's interior was designed for comfort and convenience, with features like three-row climate control and power rear-door closure.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 provided a spacious cabin with good headroom and visibility, though legroom was slightly limited. The rear seats were less comfortable for long journeys, and the cargo space, while above average, fell short of the Honda CR-V. The RAV4's interior featured oversized knobs and easy-to-use controls, but lacked the storage space found in some competitors. The design prioritized functionality over luxury, with a focus on practicality.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 featured a sixth-generation Genesis UX infotainment system with a 14.5-inch HD touchscreen, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system offered cloud connectivity, over-the-air updates, and a digital key function for Android users. The GV80 also included Genesis Connected Services, providing features like remote start and vehicle health reports. A head-up display and a 12.3-inch 3D digital instrument cluster were available on higher trims, along with a premium Lexicon audio system.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 came with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with touchscreen sizes varying by trim. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with shortcut buttons for key functions, but lacked the sophistication of the GV80's system. The RAV4 offered a JBL premium audio system and multiple USB ports, but did not include a head-up display on gasoline models. The focus was on simplicity and ease of use, rather than advanced technology.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It came equipped with 10 airbags, including a front-centre airbag, and a suite of driver assistance features like blind-spot collision avoidance and forward collision-avoidance assist. The GV80 also offered adaptive cruise control with machine learning and highway-driving assist, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It included the Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite, featuring forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. Blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard. While the RAV4 offered a comprehensive set of safety features, it lacked the advanced systems found in the GV80.