2023 Genesis GV80 vs 2022 Lexus RX

The 2022 Lexus RX presented a modern and sporty design, continuing the aesthetic updates from its 2020 facelift. Available in both standard and long-wheelbase versions, the RX 350 offered seating for five, while the RX 450h hybrid model provided a three-row, 7-passenger option. The RX's exterior was characterized by sharp character lines and angular features, creating a bold yet restrained design. The F Sport models added a touch of athleticism with 20-inch wheels, unique front fascia, and sportier exterior elements. Inside, the RX maintained a luxurious appeal, with F Sport models featuring specific badging and sporty trim. However, the interior design felt somewhat dated, and the comfort of the NuLuxe seats was less than ideal, with limited lumbar support and challenging driving position adjustments.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 exuded sophistication and grace with its quad-lamp headlights and bold grille, presenting a stately presence just shy of 5 metres in length. The Prestige trim tester featured 22-inch alloy wheels and a matte Brunswick Green paint job, adding to its elegant look. Inside, the GV80 continued the dark green theme with quilted leather seats and a dash split by thin, horizontal air vents. The centre console was highlighted by three large dials for infotainment, transmission, and drive modes. While the 14.5-inch infotainment screen seemed somewhat out of place, the interior was spacious and luxurious, offering a comfortable and refined environment.

The 2022 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, while the hybrid RX 450h combined a V6 with two electric motors for a total of 308 hp. All models featured an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. Despite its sporty appearance, the RX's performance was underwhelming, with a lack of sporty dynamics and a less-than-impressive engine note. The F Sport models included performance dampers and adaptive variable suspension, but the drive modes offered minimal differentiation in handling. The RX excelled in driving comfort and cabin quietness, providing a smooth ride and isolated road noise. Fuel consumption for the RX 350 was 12.2 L/100 km in the city and 9.0 on the highway, while the RX 450h hybrid offered improved efficiency at 7.9 L/100 km combined.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 came standard with all-wheel drive and offered a choice between a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, or a twin-turbo 3.5-litre V6 producing 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. While not particularly quick or nimble, the GV80 excelled at highway driving, with smooth power delivery and shifts. The electronically controlled suspension scanned the road for roughness, enhancing ride comfort. Active noise cancellation contributed to a quiet cabin, making the GV80 a pleasant companion for long drives.

The 2022 Lexus RX offered 2,826 litres of passenger volume in its standard two-row configuration, comfortably accommodating four adults. The three-row L models provided limited space for anything beyond groceries, with a 2/3/2 seating configuration. Cargo space behind the second row was 453 litres, expanding to 923 litres with the seats folded down. The three-row version offered 210 litres with all seats upright, increasing to 1,657 litres with both back rows down. The RX featured thoughtful interior elements like a dedicated smartphone slot and adjustable-height cup holder, but the rear seats did not fold completely flat, and the load-in height was high due to the sporty bumper design.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 compensated for its lack of driving excitement with a wealth of features and luxury touches. Standard equipment in Canada included heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated outboard mirrors. The Ergo driver's seat offered a unique fatigue-reducing function, and the Nappa leather seats were sumptuous. A third-row option was available, but legroom was limited to 76 centimetres. The GV80 boasted a large cargo space, with 988 litres behind the second row, expanding to 2,378 litres with the seats folded down. Towing capacity was a robust 2,720 kilograms. Additional features included Genesis puddle lamps, a proximity key, tri-zone climate control, and a 21-speaker Lexicon sound system.

The 2022 Lexus RX featured an 8-inch touchscreen display, with a 12.3-inch version available for the 450h L and as an option for other trims. Despite being moved closer to the driver, the touchscreen's positioning was ergonomically unfriendly, with a lip obstructing access to icons. The infotainment system was responsive, but the touchpad was hypersensitive and unintuitive. The RX offered a range of tech features, including six USB ports, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, Bluetooth, wireless charging, a WiFi hotspot, and various audio systems. The Lexus App allowed for remote engine start and vehicle personalization.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 came with a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 12.3-inch 3D digital gauge cluster. While the infotainment screen was slightly out of reach, the dial control was cumbersome, though it offered handwriting detection. The system had a steep learning curve, but Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity were available, albeit not wirelessly. The GV80 included wireless charging, multiple USB ports, and a 110-volt outlet. Remote smart parking assist allowed the vehicle to park itself without the driver inside, adding convenience to tight parking situations.

The 2022 Lexus RX came equipped with the Lexus Safety System 2.0+, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, road-sign recognition, lane-keeping assist, a pre-collision system, and intelligent high beams. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a head-up display. The RX was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, but only with optional triple-beam LED headlights. It received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with five stars in side crash tests and four stars in frontal crashes and rollover resistance.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver aids, including forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Blind-Spot View Monitor system provided a video feed of the car's blind spot in the digital gauge cluster. Highway Drive Assist offered 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, with Superior ratings in front crash prevention.