2024 Genesis GV80 vs 2023 Land Rover Defender

In Canada, the 2023 Land Rover Defender was a popular choice, outselling the Land Rover Discovery by a significant margin. Despite being similar in size and price, the Defender's boxy design reminiscent of the old LR4 appealed to customers more than the Discovery's Ford-like appearance. The Defender's design was characterized by its square-jawed face, rectangular hood and doors, and abruptly chopped tail, all of which contributed to its classic truck aesthetic. Tasteful accents like the dome and faux-metal step plates on the hood, skylights along the roof, and a full-size wheel and tire mounted to the hatch paid homage to the original 1980s Defender. The Defender was available in three body styles: 90, 110, and 130, offering a range of choices unmatched by other SUVs.

Inside, the Defender focused on function and durability, with most of the interior coated in moisture-wicking rubbers and plastics. Despite its high price, the interior was basic, with exposed screws and plain-looking air vents, maintaining the Defender's hardcore character. While the build quality was excellent, the Defender's price tag, especially for the 110 V8 Carpathian Edition, seemed excessive compared to the more opulent Range Rover. However, its continued strong sales in Canada indicated that many buyers appreciated its unique charm.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 offered a choice between the 2.5T and 3.5T models, with the latter available in the exclusive Prestige trim. Canadian pricing was all-inclusive, covering five years of scheduled maintenance and at-home concierge service. The GV80's Prestige trim featured six exterior colours and stylish 22-inch wheel designs, while the interior boasted diamond-stitched Nappa leather, a suede headliner, and metallic-finish accents. Ambient lighting, a 3D digital instrument cluster, and a wide touchscreen display underscored its luxury status. Despite the Prestige Signature trim not being available in Canada, the regular Prestige trim was recommended for its luxury features.

The GV80 was unmistakably a luxury vehicle, with its interior details and advanced technology. The 3.5T model provided a satisfying driving experience, though it was thirsty on the road. The GV80's performance was enhanced by its adaptive damping suspension and upgraded front brakes, making it more athletic than expected. The steering wheel's two-spoke design added a retro touch, though it was set to be replaced in 2025. Overall, the GV80 was a luxurious and capable SUV, offering a rewarding driving experience.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender excelled off-road, with its impressive grip, wheel articulation, and clearance. Its air suspension allowed it to tackle almost any path, though most owners would not use its full capabilities. On-road, the Defender's performance was less impressive, with excessive body roll, slow steering, and wind noise. The turbocharged inline-six and supercharged V8 engines provided strong performance, with the V8 delivering 518 horsepower and 461 pound-feet of torque. The six-cylinder engine, part of a 48-volt mild hybrid powertrain, offered 395 hp and 406 lb-ft, while the four-cylinder engine was less powerful at 296 hp and 295 lb-ft. Fuel economy varied, with the V8 being the least efficient.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, and a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 with 375 hp and 391 lb-ft. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The GV80's driving modes included Eco, Comfort, Sport, Custom, and Snow. The 3.5T model featured upgraded front brakes and an adaptive damping suspension, providing a rewarding driving experience. The GV80's performance was enhanced by its powerful engine, snappy transmission, and AWD system, though the steering was unremarkable.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender offered exceptional seating configurations, with the Defender 90 seating six with a jump seat, and the 130 seating up to eight. The 130 featured a panoramic moonroof and a rear moonroof, while the 90 and 110 offered a folding power fabric roof. Cargo space varied, with the 130 offering 2,180 litres with the third row and second row folded. The Defender's flexibility and off-road capabilities were complemented by features like a metal roof rack, console refrigerator, and power-deployable side steps.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 3.5T Prestige offered a third-row seat, with standard features including heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a panoramic sunroof. However, the seats were uncomfortable on long trips, and second-row legroom was limited. Cargo space measured 988 litres behind the second row, expanding to 2,378 litres with the seats folded. Despite its luxurious features, the GV80's seating comfort was a drawback.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender featured two touchscreen infotainment systems running Pivi Pro, with a standard 10-inch screen and an optional 11.4-inch touchscreen. Both screens were quick and simple to operate, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The Defender also offered heated front seats, keyless entry, and heated power-folding mirrors. Higher trims included features like air suspension, a locking rear differential, and a head-up display.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment display, with a round control dial on the centre console. The standard infotainment package included a navigation system, SiriusXM satellite radio, and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The GV80 also offered a digital key system, a Lexicon premium sound system, and a head-up display. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with a pleasing graphical interface.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender scored five stars in Euro NCAP crash testing, though it lacked front knee airbags and rear side thorax airbags. Standard safety features included lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. Optional features included a digital instrument panel, head-up display, and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 offered numerous advanced driving-assistance systems, including a Blind-Spot View Monitor, Remote Smart Parking Assist, and Highway Driving Assist. The GV80 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. The Blind-Spot View Monitor and Remote Smart Parking Assist were standout features, enhancing the GV80's safety credentials.