2023 Genesis GV80 vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Volvo XC90 represented a significant evolution from the brand's earlier boxy designs, maintaining its family-friendly and safety-oriented image while stepping into the luxury class. After Volvo's acquisition by Zhejiang Geely Holding in 2010, the company developed new platforms, including the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) for the XC90, which debuted as a 2016 model. The 2022 XC90 showcased a sleek profile with a long roofline and pronounced wheel arches, exuding athleticism. Its interior was a testament to "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury," featuring natural wood and metal trim, with options for Nappa leather or a tailored wool blend upholstery.

The 2023 Genesis GV80, on the other hand, exuded sophistication with its quad-lamp headlights and bold grille, presenting a stately presence just shy of 5 metres in length. The exterior was complemented by 22-inch alloy wheels on the Prestige trim, while the interior boasted quilted leather seats in a dark green hue, accented by metal and matte wood trim. The centre console featured three large dials for infotainment, transmission, and drive modes, and the two-spoke steering wheel added a unique touch. Despite a minor quibble with the 14.5-inch infotainment screen's placement, the GV80's interior was spacious and luxurious, offering a comfortable environment for occupants.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version delivering 316 hp and 295 lb-ft, and the Recharge plug-in hybrid with a combined 455 hp and 523 lb-ft of torque. All models featured all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The XC90's driving experience was commendable, with minimal body roll and spirited acceleration, especially in the Recharge Inscription extended range model. Fuel efficiency varied, with the Recharge achieving an 8.8 L/100 km combined rating on gas in hybrid mode and a 4.0 Le/100 km with a 29-kilometre EV range.

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. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. While the GV80 was not particularly quick, taking about five and a half seconds to reach 100 km/h, it excelled in highway driving with smooth power delivery and shifts. The electronically controlled suspension and active noise cancellation contributed to a serene highway experience, although the GV80's handling was less precise compared to its German rivals.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered six-passenger and seven-passenger configurations, with easy access to the third row via a one-handed slide and fold of the second row. While the third row was suitable for children, adults would find the legroom lacking. The XC90 provided up to 1,855 litres of cargo space with the second and third rows folded, and a towing capacity of up to 2,250 kilograms. The interior was spacious and airy, enhanced by a panoramic moonroof, and the climate control system performed admirably during a heat wave, ensuring a comfortable cabin environment.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 compensated for its less engaging driving dynamics with a host of luxury features. Standard amenities included heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel. The Ergo driver's seat offered fatigue-reducing adjustments, while the Nappa leather seats added a touch of opulence. Although the optional third row had limited legroom, the GV80 excelled in cargo capacity, offering 988 litres behind the second row and 2,378 litres with the seats folded. The GV80's towing capacity was a robust 2,720 kilograms, making it a practical choice for those needing to haul trailers.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen, offering intuitive smartphone-like gestures. However, the system was occasionally glitchy and slow, performing better with Apple CarPlay. A 12.3-inch digital instrument panel provided easy customization, and the Advanced package included a head-up display and a 360-degree camera system. The XC90 also offered multiple USB ports for device charging.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 boasted a 14.5-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch 3D digital gauge cluster, though the infotainment system had a steep learning curve. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, they were not wireless. The GV80 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, enhancing convenience in tight spaces.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and Pilot Assist, which provided semi-autonomous driving assistance. The XC90 received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, underscoring its commitment to safety.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver aids, such as forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Blind-Spot View Monitor system provided a video feed of the blind spot in the digital gauge cluster, enhancing driver awareness. The GV80 also featured Highway Drive Assist, offering hands-on driving aid on approved highways. The GV80 received high safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS, although the headlights and LATCH system were rated as Acceptable.