2023 Genesis GV80 vs 2023 BMW X7

The 2023 Genesis GV80 showcased a sophisticated exterior with its quad-lamp headlights and bold grille, presenting a stately presence at over 16 feet long. The Prestige trim featured 22-inch alloy wheels, enhancing its elegant look, especially with the matte Brunswick Green paint. The rear echoed the quad lamp design with four-part taillamps above dual exhausts. Inside, the dark green quilted leather seats and a dash split by thin air vents added to the luxury feel, complemented by metal and matte wood trim. The center console featured three large dials for infotainment, transmission, and drive modes, while the two-spoke steering wheel stood out. The 14.5-inch infotainment screen seemed awkwardly placed, but the spacious and luxurious interior made it a pleasant space.

The 2023 BMW X7 received a mid-cycle makeover, adopting a bolder design akin to the BMW 7 Series sedan. The new LED accent lights and recessed headlights created a controversial front-end look, while the sides and rear remained largely unchanged. The interior refresh included a curved glass housing for the digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen, with a more elemental dash design. The center console featured a new toggle switch-like gear selector. Interior materials were of high quality, with options for matte and open-pore wood trims adding warmth. Despite some harsh reflections from glossy trims, the X7's interior was sturdily built, offering a modern and elegant appearance.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 offered all-wheel drive with a choice between a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, or a turbo 3.5-liter V6 with 375 hp and 391 lb-ft. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The GV80 was not particularly quick, taking about five and a half seconds to reach 60 mph, and felt less nimble compared to German rivals. However, it excelled in highway driving with smooth power delivery and shifts, aided by an electronically controlled suspension and active noise cancellation.

The 2023 BMW X7 lineup began with the xDrive40i model, featuring a new 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine and 48-volt mild hybrid system, delivering 375 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. The X7 M60i model upgraded to a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine with 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, achieving 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. Both engines were mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Despite its nearly 6,000-pound weight, the X7 handled well, with potent acceleration from the V8 and a composed ride. The ride was slightly firmer than some luxury SUVs, reflecting BMW's focus on driver engagement.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 compensated for its lack of driving excitement with luxury features. Standard heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were complemented by ventilated front and rear seats in the tester. The Ergo Motion driver’s seat offered fatigue-reducing inflation pockets. Nappa leather seats added to the sumptuous feel. A third row was available but offered limited legroom. The GV80 featured Genesis puddle lamps, a proximity key, and a digital key. The tri-zone climate control and optional 21-speaker stereo system enhanced comfort. Cargo space was generous, with 34.9 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 84 cubic feet with seats folded. Towing capacity was 6,000 pounds.

The 2023 BMW X7 provided ample space, with the second row accommodating taller passengers and a large sunroof enhancing the airy feel. Accessing the third row required time as the power-operated middle row moved, but it offered adequate space for average-sized adults. Cargo space was 12.8 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 48.6 cubic feet with seats folded, and 90.4 cubic feet with the middle seats down. The split tailgate and suspension-lowering button facilitated loading. Front-seat storage included a large center console bin with a wireless charging pad and spacious door pockets.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen for infotainment, accompanied by a 12.3-inch 3D digital gauge cluster. The infotainment screen was slightly out of reach, and the dial control was cumbersome, though it offered handwriting detection. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available but not wireless. The GV80 included wireless charging, multiple USB ports, and a remote smart parking assist, allowing the car to park itself without the driver inside.

The 2023 BMW X7's iDrive infotainment system, though historically praised, took a step back with fewer physical buttons and more screen-based controls. Basic functions were easy, but deeper settings were complex. Voice commands offered some relief but interrupted audio. The system lacked intuitive menus, and more physical buttons would have been appreciated.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 was equipped with numerous standard safety features, including forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. A standout feature was the blind spot video feed in the digital gauge cluster. Highway Drive Assist provided hands-on/eyes-up driving aid on approved highways. The GV80 received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and high ratings from IIHS, though headlights and LATCH system were rated Acceptable.

The 2023 BMW X7 lacked crash test results from NHTSA and IIHS, but it offered a comprehensive list of safety features, including frontal collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive headlights. The M60i trim added a surround-view camera system. The highway driving assist feature effectively reduced driver fatigue on long trips.