2021 Genesis GV80 vs 2022 INFINITI QX80

The 2021 Genesis GV80, as a new entrant in the luxury SUV market, had the advantage of a fresh design approach, unburdened by a long legacy of design language. As Genesis's first SUV, the GV80 managed to incorporate the brand's signature styling cues, such as the massive trapezoidal grille and the "Quad Lamp" LED headlight array, which were also seen in the G80 sedan. The SUV's design was elegant, with a long hood and short front overhang, complemented by aluminum-alloy wheels ranging from 19 to 22 inches. The interior was a highlight, featuring a sleek dashboard with minimal controls, a 14.5-inch high-definition display, and authentic materials like real wood and leather, creating a luxurious atmosphere.

In contrast, the 2022 INFINITI QX80 shared its platform with the Nissan Armada, which was evident in its design. However, the QX80 distinguished itself with a unique front-end styling, featuring a prominent Infiniti grille and tastefully integrated LED lighting. The exterior was further enhanced by stylish 22-inch dark chrome alloy wheels. Inside, the QX80 offered a spacious cabin with upscale materials, including quilted semi-aniline leather seats and tasteful wood trim. Despite its luxurious appointments, the QX80's interior design was beginning to show its age compared to newer competitors in the segment.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 with 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. The GV80's ride was smooth, thanks to its electronically controlled suspension with road preview on the 3.5T models. The 2.5T engine provided sufficient power for most driving situations, while the 3.5T offered a more refined and powerful experience, enhanced by active noise cancellation. Fuel consumption for the 2.5T was rated at 11.3 L/100 km city and 9.5 highway, while the 3.5T consumed 12.9 L/100 km city and 10.4 highway.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a robust 5.6-litre V8 engine, delivering 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and seamless shifts. The QX80's performance was impressive, with quick acceleration and a satisfying exhaust note. However, the V8 was thirsty, and premium fuel was recommended. The QX80's four-wheel-drive system, based on the Nissan Patrol, offered excellent off-road capability, with a computer-controlled transfer case and ample ground clearance. The SUV's towing capacity was a generous 3,855 kilograms, making it suitable for hauling large trailers or boats.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 featured a sophisticated interior with a focus on technology and ergonomics. The centre console housed a rotary gear selector and a circular multimedia controller with dual control capability. The second row was spacious and comfortable, with available power seats and window shades. The 3.5T models included a third row, increasing passenger capacity to seven, although the third row was not available on 2.5T trims. The GV80's interior was well-appointed, with luxury features like three-row climate control and a standard sunroof.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 offered a spacious cabin with good head- and legroom in the front seats. The SUV could accommodate up to eight passengers with a second-row bench seat or seven with captain's chairs. However, the third row was cramped for adults, and the power-folding seats were slow to operate. Cargo space was limited compared to competitors, with 470 litres behind the third row and 2,694 litres with all seats folded. The QX80's interior featured illuminated kick plates and radiant exterior welcome lighting, adding a premium touch.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 boasted a state-of-the-art infotainment system with a 14.5-inch HD touchscreen, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was connected to the cloud, allowing for over-the-air updates and personalized driver profiles. The GV80 also offered a digital key function for Android users and five years of complimentary Genesis Connected Services. 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 with 21 speakers.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 featured a new 12.3-inch Infiniti InTouch infotainment system, offering Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. A Bose 17-speaker sound system was standard, along with a wireless smartphone charger. The QX80 also included a dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system, although the necessary HDMI adapters were missing. Notably, the QX80 lacked Infiniti's ProPilot Assist advanced driving-assistance system due to its older architecture.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 received top safety ratings, including a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It came equipped with 10 airbags, electronic stability control, and a suite of driver assistance features, such as blind-spot collision avoidance and forward collision-avoidance assist. The GV80 also offered adaptive cruise control with machine learning and highway-driving assist, along with Remote Smart Parking Assist.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 included standard safety features like forward automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-departure warning. Additional features included driver attention alert and front knee airbags. The QX80 received a three-star rating for rollover resistance from the NHTSA, with the structurally similar 2021 model earning four stars for overall crash protection. The IIHS had not rated the QX80 for safety.