2023 Genesis GV80 vs 2022 Kia Sorento

The 2022 Kia Sorento, particularly in the X-Line trim, presented a stylish and rugged appearance. This midsize SUV was enhanced with rugged bumpers, matte-finish wheels, black lower body cladding, and robust roof rails, giving it a distinctive presence. The test vehicle, in U.S. specification, featured the X-Line package on the top trim, which was not available in Canada in the same configuration. In Canada, the X-Line was a standalone mid-grade package, and all Sorentos came with standard all-wheel drive, including the hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains. The pricing for the gas-only powertrain ranged from $34,595 to $48,085, while the hybrid started at $36,695 and the plug-in hybrid at $44,995, excluding a $1,900 destination charge.

The Sorento's interior exuded quality, with leather upholstery and simulated wood trim on the dashboard. The cabin reflected rock-solid construction, with nothing appearing flimsy. Kia's attention to design detail was evident even in the most affordable Sorento LX+ model. The traditional cable-operated transmission shifter did not negatively impact practical storage space. Overall, the Sorento provided a sense of value, making every errand, commute, and road trip feel like a great deal, even at sticker price.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 showcased sophistication and grace with its quad-lamp headlights and bold grille. This midsize SUV, just shy of 5 metres long, exuded a stately presence. In Canada, 20-inch wheels were standard, but the Prestige trim tester featured 22-inch alloy wheels. The quad lamp design was echoed in the rear with four-part taillamps above the dual exhaust. The hands-free liftgate maintained a boxy design, and the matte Brunswick Green paint job added an elegant touch.

Inside, the dark green quilted leather seats continued the luxurious theme. The dash was split by thin, horizontal air vents, complemented by metal and matte wood trim. The centre console featured three large dials for infotainment, transmission, and drive modes. The two-spoke steering wheel added a unique touch. The 14.5-inch infotainment screen, though slightly awkwardly placed, was a minor annoyance in an otherwise spacious and luxurious interior.

The 2022 Kia Sorento's standard engine was a 191-horsepower 2.5-litre four-cylinder, which took nearly 9.5 seconds to reach 60 mph. This sluggish performance led to recommendations for other engine options, including a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder, a turbocharged hybrid powertrain, and a turbocharged plug-in hybrid powertrain. The turbo 2.5-litre engine, available from the Sorento X-Line, generated 281 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque, offering a more satisfying driving experience. The turbo engine was paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission, allowing the Sorento to reach 60 mph in about 7.5 seconds. The SUV's suspension provided a blend of compliance and composure, making it feel more like a sports sedan than a sport/utility vehicle. Fuel consumption was higher than expected, averaging 11.5 L/100 km during testing.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 came with standard all-wheel drive and offered a choice between a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and a twin-turbo 3.5-litre V6. The turbo V6, equipped in the test vehicle, delivered 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. While not particularly athletic or nimble, the GV80 excelled at highway driving, with smooth power delivery and shifts. The electronically controlled suspension, combined with active noise cancellation, provided a smooth and quiet highway commute. However, the GV80's acceleration to 100 km/h in about 5.5 seconds was slower compared to some competitors.

The 2022 Kia Sorento's interior felt luxurious, with Burgundy leather seats and standard heated and ventilated front seats. The second-row captain's chairs, standard from the EX trim, were designed for kids, featuring cupholders, USB ports, and rear climate control vents. The panoramic sunroof extended over the second row, enhancing comfort. However, the third-row seat was cramped, with limited legroom and head restraints flush against the rear window. Folding the third-row seat expanded the cargo space from 357 litres to 1,274 litres, and folding the second-row seats increased it to 2,139 litres. The Sorento's "smart" power tailgate was convenient but could open unintentionally.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 offered a luxurious interior with heated and ventilated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and Nappa leather upholstery. The Ergo driver's seat, with inflatable pockets, reduced fatigue. The third row, with limited legroom, was suitable for children. The GV80 featured Genesis puddle lamps, a proximity key, and a digital key. The tri-zone climate control system and 21-speaker Lexicon sound system added to the comfort. The GV80 boasted one of the largest cargo spaces in its class, with 988 litres behind the second row and 2,378 litres with the seats folded. The towing capacity was 2,720 kilograms.

The 2022 Kia Sorento offered an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system on lower trims, while higher trims featured a 10.25-inch display with navigation, satellite radio, and smartphone integration. The infotainment system was intuitive but had a unique font style and graphics. The voice recognition system was less effective than Hyundai's. A 12-speaker Bose premium sound system was reserved for the Sorento SX. A wireless phone charger was standard from the LX Premium trim.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 12.3-inch 3D digital gauge cluster. The infotainment screen was slightly out of reach, and the dial control was cumbersome. The system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but not wirelessly. The GV80 included wireless charging, multiple USB ports, and a 110-volt outlet. The remote smart parking assist allowed the vehicle to park itself without the driver inside.

The 2022 Kia Sorento was equipped with advanced safety features, including a rear-seat reminder system and Junction Assist. The Blind View Monitor system, available on the SX, provided a live video feed of blind spots. Highway Driving Assist, a Level 2 semi-autonomous system, worked well on highways. The Sorento received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 included standard advanced driver aids, such as forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The Blind-Spot View Monitor system displayed a video feed in the digital gauge cluster. Highway Drive Assist provided hands-on/eyes-up driving aid on approved highways. The GV80 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Good rating for crashworthiness from the IIHS.