2023 Genesis GV80 vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, a staple in the crossover SUV market, continued to build on its legacy of practicality and reliability. Initially launched in 1996 as a compact alternative to larger SUVs, the RAV4 evolved over five generations into a mature and sophisticated vehicle. By 2022, it had become a sales leader in Canada, thanks to its blend of car-like handling and SUV capabilities. The exterior design of the 2022 RAV4 was characterized by angular wheel arches and crisp lines, complemented by expressive headlights and a distinctive grille, giving it a playful yet aggressive appearance. Inside, the RAV4 featured a layered dashboard with contrasting textures and colours, a user-friendly touchscreen interface, and unique design elements like a circuit-board-inspired pattern that tied the cabin together.

In contrast, the 2023 Genesis GV80 exuded sophistication and elegance with its bold grille and quad-lamp headlights. This midsize SUV, measuring nearly 5 metres in length, offered a stately presence on the road. The GV80's exterior design was further enhanced by its matte Brunswick Green paint and 22-inch alloy wheels on the Prestige trim. Inside, the GV80 continued the theme of luxury with quilted leather seats, a split dash with horizontal air vents, and a centre console featuring three large dials for infotainment, transmission, and drive modes. The interior was spacious and luxurious, with features like a 14.5-inch infotainment screen, although its placement on the dash was a minor drawback. Overall, the GV80 provided a refined and comfortable driving experience.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered a range of powertrains to suit different driving preferences. The gasoline-only model featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on higher trims. The RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre engine with an electric motor, delivering 217 horsepower and impressive fuel economy ratings of 5.8 L/100 km in the city and 6.0 combined. The RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid was the most powerful, boasting 302 horsepower and the ability to travel up to 68 kilometres on electricity alone. The RAV4's handling was praised for its car-like feel, with a four-wheel independent suspension and dynamic torque vectoring for improved cornering.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 came standard with all-wheel drive and offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and a twin-turbo 3.5-litre V6 producing 375 horsepower. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. While the GV80 was not the quickest in its class, taking around 5.5 seconds to reach 100 km/h, it excelled in highway driving with smooth power delivery and an electronically controlled suspension that adjusted to road conditions. The GV80's active noise cancellation and highway drive assist system further enhanced the driving experience, making it a comfortable and quiet choice for long journeys.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 offered ample interior space and versatility. It could accommodate up to 1,059 litres of luggage behind the second row, expanding to 1,977 litres with the seats folded flat. The RAV4's towing capacity varied by model, with the Trail and TRD Off-Road models capable of towing up to 1,588 kilograms. Inside, the RAV4 provided comfortable seating for four adults, with plenty of legroom and storage options throughout the cabin. Features like dual-zone climate control and a power-adjustable driver's seat added to the comfort and convenience.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 prioritized luxury and comfort with its array of features. Standard amenities included heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a tri-zone climate control system. The GV80's interior was adorned with Nappa leather seats and a panoramic sunroof, creating a sumptuous environment. While a third-row option was available, it offered limited legroom, making it suitable for children. The GV80 excelled in cargo space, providing 988 litres behind the second row and expanding to 2,378 litres with the seats folded. Its towing capacity was an impressive 2,720 kilograms, making it a practical choice for those needing to haul larger loads.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came equipped with a range of technology features, starting with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, and a six-speaker audio system. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen, an 11-speaker JBL audio system, and advanced features like a bird’s-eye view camera system and a head-up display. The RAV4 Prime showcased additional technology, including multiple USB ports, a wireless charging pad, and a digital rear-view mirror.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 featured 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 system offered Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, albeit not wirelessly. The GV80 also included wireless charging, multiple USB ports, and a 110-volt outlet. A standout feature was the remote smart parking assist, allowing the vehicle to park itself without the driver inside, adding a touch of convenience to the luxury SUV.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with Toyota's Star Safety System, which included features like vehicle stability control, traction control, and anti-lock braking. Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, a suite of driver-assist systems, was standard on all models, offering features like adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic emergency braking. The RAV4 received high safety ratings, including a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 boasted an array of advanced safety features, including forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The Blind-Spot View Monitor system provided a video feed of the car's blind spot in the digital gauge cluster, enhancing safety. The GV80 also featured Highway Drive Assist, which used various systems to provide a hands-on/eyes-up driving aid. The GV80 received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA and high ratings from the IIHS, making it a safe choice for families.