2022 Subaru Forester vs 2021 Genesis GV80

The 2021 Genesis GV80, as Genesis's first SUV, was a fresh design that managed to balance innovation with the brand's emerging signature style. It featured a sleek two-box design with a long hood and short front overhang, complemented by a massive trapezoidal grille and distinctive "Quad Lamp" LED headlights. The SUV's exterior was further enhanced by large aluminum-alloy wheels and elegant rear Quad Lamp taillights. Inside, the GV80 offered a luxurious experience with a sleek, uncluttered dashboard, real wood and leather materials, and a 14.5-inch high-definition display, creating a truly upscale environment.

In contrast, the 2022 Subaru Forester prioritized functionality and practicality over aesthetics. The Forester Wilderness model, with its rugged appearance, included features like a suspension lift and protective cladding, which gave it a distinctive, albeit polarizing, look. Inside, the Forester focused on durability and ease of use, with water-repellant StarTex upholstery and a straightforward cabin layout. The interior emphasized practicality with features like all-weather floor mats and a rubber cargo mat, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who valued utility over luxury.

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 came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. The GV80's ride was enhanced by an electronically controlled suspension with road preview on the 3.5T models, providing a smooth driving experience. 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 Subaru Forester continued with its 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. It featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive. The Wilderness model boasted a 25% increase in initial torque supply and doubled towing capacity to 1,360 kilograms. Fuel consumption was estimated at 9.0 L/100 km combined. The Forester's driving dynamics were competent, with a long-travel suspension and dual-function X-Mode system enhancing its off-road capabilities. However, the lack of a turbocharger left it feeling underpowered at higher altitudes.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered a sophisticated interior with advanced technology and luxury features. The centre console featured a rotary gear selector and a circular multimedia controller with dual control capabilities. The second row was spacious and comfortable, with available power seats and window shades. A third row was standard on 3.5T models, increasing passenger capacity to seven. The GV80's interior was a blend of technology and luxury, providing a premium experience for occupants.

The 2022 Subaru Forester excelled in functionality, with easy entry and exit and a practical interior design. The StarTex upholstery was water-resistant, and the Wilderness model included all-weather floor mats and a rubber cargo mat. The Forester's interior was spacious, with comfortable seating and ample storage options. Cargo space measured 818 litres without the sunroof and 762 litres with it, expanding to 2,101 litres with the rear seats folded. The Forester's practicality and durability made it a great choice for outdoor adventures.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 featured a state-of-the-art infotainment system with a 14.5-inch HD touchscreen, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It offered cloud-connected services, over-the-air updates, and a digital key function for Android users. The GV80 also included a head-up display, a 12.3-inch 3D digital instrument cluster, and a premium Lexicon audio system with 21 speakers.

The 2022 Subaru Forester came with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims featured an 8-inch screen with available navigation and a Harman Kardon audio system. The Wilderness model included a 180-degree forward-view camera for off-roading. The Forester's technology was user-friendly, though the voice recognition system was inconsistent.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 received top safety ratings, including a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It came with 10 airbags, advanced driver assistance features, and adaptive cruise control with machine learning. The GV80 also offered Remote Smart Parking Assist for automated parking.

The 2022 Subaru Forester introduced the EyeSight 4.0 safety system, offering improved accuracy and stability. It included features like automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. The Forester also had a rear-seat reminder system, blind-spot monitoring, and DriverFocus technology on higher trims. It received a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA.