2022 Volkswagen Taos vs 2023 Genesis GV80

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos was positioned as a compact SUV with a spacious interior, competing with models like the Kia Seltos and Subaru Crosstrek. It offered a choice of Trendline, Comfortline, or Highline trims, with prices ranging from $26,695 to $36,695. The Taos featured a distinctive design with roof rails, dark grey plastic cladding, and simulated skid plates. However, its interior was criticized for using hard, shiny plastics, although it did provide soft surfaces where necessary. The Highline trim boasted two-tone perforated leather seats and a stylish dashboard.

In contrast, the 2023 Genesis GV80 exuded sophistication with its quad-lamp headlights and bold grille. This midsize SUV featured a stately design, with 22-inch alloy wheels on the Prestige trim. The interior was equally luxurious, with quilted leather seats, metal and matte wood trim, and a unique two-spoke steering wheel. The GV80's infotainment system included a 14.5-inch touchscreen, although its placement was somewhat awkward. Despite this, the interior was spacious and comfortable, making it a pleasant place to spend time.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos was equipped with a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. While the engine provided adequate power, the turbocharger's delayed response and the dual-clutch transmission's erratic shifting could be frustrating. The Taos offered a smooth ride with responsive steering and effective brakes, but its ground clearance was limited compared to competitors. Fuel efficiency was reasonable, with an average of 8.7 L/100 km during testing.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 came standard with all-wheel drive and offered a choice between a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine or a twin-turbo 3.5-litre V6. Our tester featured the V6, delivering 375 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. While not particularly quick, the GV80 excelled in highway driving, with smooth power delivery and an electronically controlled suspension that adjusted to road conditions. The active noise cancellation further enhanced the driving experience, making it a comfortable and quiet ride.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos boasted a spacious interior, with ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The Highline trim offered heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and power-adjustable seats. Cargo space varied depending on the drive system, with up to 1,866 litres available in the front-wheel-drive model. The Taos also featured a centre pass-through for ski trips.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 impressed with its luxurious features, including heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and a tri-zone climate control system. The Ergo driver's seat provided comfort with its inflatable pockets. While the optional third row offered limited legroom, the GV80 excelled in cargo space, with up to 2,378 litres available. Towing capacity was also notable at 2,720 kilograms.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos featured a Digital Cockpit instrument cluster and an infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Highline trim added a navigation system and an eight-speaker BeatsAudio sound system. However, the infotainment system's user experience was criticized for its complexity and slow response.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 came with a 14.5-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch 3D digital gauge cluster. While the infotainment system had a learning curve, it offered Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, albeit not wirelessly. The GV80 also featured remote smart parking assist, allowing the vehicle to park itself without the driver inside.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos offered a range of safety features, including forward-collision warning, blind-spot warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. However, many of these features were only available on higher trims or as part of an extra-cost package. The Taos also featured Emergency Assist, a rare feature in its class, which could bring the vehicle to a safe stop if the driver became unresponsive.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of 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, enhancing safety. The GV80 also featured Highway Drive Assist, which offered hands-on/eyes-up driving aid on approved highways. The GV80 received high safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS.