2023 Genesis GV80 vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport was crafted by removing the third row from the standard seven-passenger Atlas model, lowering the roofline by nearly 6 centimetres, and shortening the SUV’s length by 13.2 cm. Despite these changes, the wheelbase remained the same, ensuring a spacious interior for five passengers. However, the Cross Sport’s design, with its stubby rear and angled window, reduced cargo space to 1,141 litres behind the second-row seat and a maximum of 2,203 litres. The Execline trim, with its 21-inch machined-finish wheels, gave the vehicle a bold and upscale appearance, although the base Comfortline trim's 18-inch wheels seemed undersized for the vehicle's design. The interior offered several colour combinations, all of which conveyed an upscale look, but the presence of hard, glossy plastics detracted from the overall quality impression.

In contrast, the 2023 Genesis GV80 exuded sophistication with its quad-lamp headlights and bold grille, presenting a stately appearance just shy of 5 metres in length. The Prestige trim featured 22-inch alloy wheels, enhancing its elegant look, especially with the matte Brunswick Green paint. Inside, the dark green quilted leather seats and the dash with thin horizontal air vents, metal, and matte wood trim created a luxurious atmosphere. The centre console, with its three large dials, added to the vehicle's refined feel. However, the 14.5-inch infotainment screen seemed awkwardly placed atop the dash, detracting slightly from the otherwise spacious and luxurious interior.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.6-litre V6 engine producing 276 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. The V6 engine, which did not require premium fuel, provided a more satisfying driving experience and a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and VW’s 4Motion all-wheel-drive system, offering various driving modes. The V6 engine felt more energetic in the two-row version, although it was aging and occasionally lacked refinement. The ride quality varied, with the suspension feeling too firm at lower speeds and too soft at higher speeds, leading to a less than ideal driving experience.

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, and a twin-turbo 3.5-litre V6 engine delivering 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. The GV80 was not particularly quick, taking about five and a half seconds to reach 100 km/h, and it felt less nimble compared to its German rivals. However, it excelled at highway driving, with smooth power delivery and shifts, and an electronically controlled suspension that adjusted to road conditions. The active noise cancellation further enhanced the quiet and smooth highway experience.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport shared its wheelbase and interior dimensions with the larger seven-passenger model, offering exceptional roominess for five adults. The test vehicle featured 10-way power-adjustable front seats, heated and ventilated, along with heated rear seats and a heated steering wheel. A panoramic sunroof added to the spacious feel, while various storage spaces provided ample room for belongings, though they lacked lining to prevent rattling. The cargo area, though reduced compared to the seven-passenger model, still offered significant space for luggage and other items.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 compensated for its lack of driving excitement with numerous luxury features. Standard equipment included heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel. The Ergo driver’s seat, with its inflatable pockets, helped reduce fatigue. The interior featured Nappa leather seats and a tri-zone climate control system. The GV80 offered a third-row option, though legroom was limited. The vehicle boasted a large cargo space, with 988 litres behind the second row and 2,378 litres with the seats folded. The towing capacity was a robust 2,720 kilograms.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport came with a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and wireless smartphone charging. However, the user experience was often frustrating, with issues in touchscreen interaction and voice recognition. The Execline trim included a 12-speaker Fender premium audio system, which was highly praised for its quality.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 12.3-inch 3D digital gauge cluster. While the 3D effects seemed gimmicky, the head-up display was a useful addition. The infotainment system had a steep learning curve, with a cumbersome dial for navigation. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, though not wirelessly. The GV80 also offered remote smart parking assist, allowing the vehicle to park itself without the driver inside.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport included a range of safety features, such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims added features like adaptive LED headlights and a semi-autonomous Park Assist system. While the Travel Assist system was generally accurate, it occasionally lacked refinement, and the Lane Assist technology sometimes misinterpreted road markings. The Atlas Cross Sport received favourable crash-test ratings, though not the highest accolades.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 was equipped with numerous advanced driver aids, including forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The Blind-Spot View Monitor system provided a video feed of the blind spot in the digital gauge cluster. The Highway Drive Assist system offered hands-on/eyes-up driving aid, though it struggled in bright sunlight. The GV80 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and high ratings from the IIHS, though the headlights and LATCH system were rated as Acceptable.