2024 Genesis GV80 vs 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2024 Genesis GV80 offered a choice between two engines: a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder and a 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged V6. In Canada, both engines were available with the Advanced trim, while the Prestige trim was exclusive to the V6. Prices ranged from $76,000 to $92,500, with all-inclusive, no-haggle pricing that included five years of scheduled maintenance and at-home concierge service. The GV80 3.5T test vehicle arrived in the top-shelf U.S. trim, Prestige Signature, which was not available in Canada. The Prestige trim featured six exterior colours and stylish 22-inch wheels. Inside, it boasted diamond-stitched Nappa leather, a suede headliner, and metallic accents, with ambient lighting and a 3D digital instrument cluster enhancing its luxury status.

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe presented a radical design departure, embracing a boxy shape for optimal storage capacity. This design was a significant shift from Hyundai's previous sleek, futuristic models. The Santa Fe's new look was aerodynamically efficient and upscale, turning heads with its sophisticated exterior colours and anodized-finish badging. The XRT trim added dark chrome and black cladding, with wheel sizes ranging from 18 to 21 inches depending on the trim. Inside, the Santa Fe offered premium styling with options like stain-resistant cloth, synthetic leather, and quilted Nappa leather. The focus on cargo space was evident, with a design inspired by "chabak," making it ideal for car camping and tailgating.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 2.5T featured a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, outperforming some rivals' larger V6 engines. The 3.5T model, with its twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6, delivered 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque, offering satisfying performance but higher fuel consumption. Both engines paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, with five driving modes available. The GV80 3.5T included upgraded brakes and adaptive damping suspension, providing a rewarding driving experience with swift acceleration and commendable grip from its all-season tires.

In Canada, the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe flipped the script by making the hybrid powertrain the entry-level option. The 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid engine offered 231 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Other models featured a 2.5-litre turbocharged engine with 277 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. All-wheel drive was standard, with driving modes including Normal, Sport, and Snow. The Santa Fe Hybrid boasted impressive fuel economy, while the gas powertrain consumed more. The XRT trim offered extra ground clearance and towing capacity, making it capable off-road.

In 2024, the Genesis GV80 3.5T Prestige was the only model offering a third-row seat. Depending on the trim, it featured real or Nappa leather, with standard heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a panoramic sunroof. However, seat comfort was an issue, with the driver’s cushion becoming uncomfortable on long trips. The GV80 offered 988 litres of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 2,378 litres with seats folded.

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe featured a longer wheelbase and body, with most of the extra space dedicated to the cargo area. The design was inspired by "chabak," offering a spacious and organized cargo area. The first and second rows were roomy, with options for bench or captain’s chairs. Depending on the trim, upholstery ranged from stain-resistant cloth to quilted Nappa leather. The cargo area provided 413 litres of space, expanding to 2,267 litres with seats folded. The Santa Fe also included a UV sanitization compartment for small objects.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment display, with a control dial on the centre console. The Prestige trim included a 12.3-inch digital instrument display. Standard features included navigation, SiriusXM, and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The GV80 also offered a digital key system and a Lexicon premium sound system, with a head-up display standard in Canada.

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe boasted a curved panoramic display, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard across the lineup. The system included a 12-speaker Bose stereo and multiple USB ports. Higher trims offered wireless charging and Hyundai’s BlueLink system for vehicle access. The Ultimate Calligraphy and NHL Edition provided additional wireless chargers and advanced features.

The Genesis GV80 came with 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, though frontal-impact tests earned four stars.

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe had not yet been crash-tested, but it included a comprehensive suite of safety features. Standard features included adaptive cruise control, forward collision-avoidance assist, and blind-spot monitors. Higher trims added a 360-degree camera system, rain-sensing wipers, and remote automatic parking. The Santa Fe also introduced driver monitoring across the lineup.