2025 Genesis GV80

The Genesis GV80 is a refined mid-size luxury SUV that stands out in a crowded segment with cutting-edge technology, a striking design, and a serene interior. The GV80 will accommodate five or seven passengers and is the largest vehicle in the Genesis lineup. It is available with two different powertrains starting with the base turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder that generates 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. Known as 2.5T models, it is available in four trims known as Standard, Select, Advanced, and Prestige. All models are AWD and pair with an eight- speed automatic.

Also available is a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 with 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque known as the 3.5T model. 3.5T models are available in either the Advanced or Prestige trim and are also exclusively AWD with an eight- speed automatic. Prices start at $58,200 for the 2.5T Standard  and climb to a starting price of $79,800 for a 3.5T Prestige. Genesis pre-packages almost everything so there aren’t many things to add on after these prices other than some  premiums for matte paint, floor mats or roof rack cross bars. Maxed out with everything possible will total $82,384. Competition includes vehicles like the Acura MDX, Audi Q7, BMW X5, Lexus RX, and Volvo XC90. I spent time in a fully equipped GV80 3.5T Prestige AWD that checked in at $81,300 including destination & delivery and here’s what stood out…

Exterior:
For 2025 the GV80 received a refreshed style with a newly designed two-line crest grille and signature two-line headlights. The large quad LED headlights and the signature crest grille are visually striking, giving the SUV a commanding presence on the road. Larger air intakes and a wide skid plate design give it a more athletic presence. Along the side profile a new chrome trim extends seamlessly through the sides from the front to the rear bumper. At the rear, the muffler tips hidden in the bumper elevate GV80’s sophistication. Two new wheel designs are sharp, giving it another level of character and detailed design element. The 20-inch design creates a multi-spoke look by intersecting two different spokes with distinct finishings, and the 22-inch option reinterprets the Two-Line design. Both are striking as most of Genesis’ wheel designs have been on all their models.

Powertrain:
The GV80 offers a choice of powertrains, including a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a more powerful 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine. The latter, producing 375 horsepower, is the standout option, providing effortless acceleration and smooth power delivery. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and offer either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, depending on the configuration. Having spent time in the 3.5T I was impressed with how powerful and refined it is. It is capable of getting from 0-60 MPH in around 5.2 seconds, which beats its primary competitors like the Q7, X5, and GLE. It also comes with five drive modes Comfort, Eco, Snow, Sport, and Custom. These modes adjust the vehicle's suspension, throttle response, and transmission shift points. Opt for sport mode which makes the throttle more sensitive and gives you more precise control if you want a more engaging drive. However, for everyday use or on a long trip, comfort mode will deliver a smooth, balanced ride with a softer suspension and lighter steering. It feels grounded with minimal body roll around corners and in inclement weather the AWD handled perfectly.

Handling:
On the road, the GV80 is remarkably smooth and quiet, with precise steering and a well-tuned suspension that delivers an excellent balance between comfort and performance. The optional adaptive suspension that reads the upcoming pavement isn’t as performance oriented as you might guess, but it still provides very good ride quality.  The GV80 absorbs road imperfections well, providing a serene driving experience without excessive floatiness. However, it leans more towards comfort and luxury than outright athleticism, making it better suited for those prioritizing a refined, comfortable ride over sporty handling.

Fuel Economy:
When it arrived with a full 21.1-gallon fuel tank, it offered a driving range of around 400 miles.  The V6 model is EPA rated at 16 MPG city, 22 MPG highway, and 19 MPG combined which is low compared to its competitors. Premium fuel is also recommended so expect to pay more at the pump for the GV80.

Interior:
Hopping inside is a redesigned and more innovative interior for 2025 with a new widescreen infotainment display. A 27-inch-wide OLED display is the highlight and  integrates the digital gauge cluster with the multimedia touchscreen in a clean, high-tech, sophisticated, horizontal layout. The seamless design extends to the center console with touch-based HVAC controls and  audio dials for volume and tuning. Air vents are almost hidden as they are horizontally integrated below the OLED display across the dash. Within the center console is a wireless device charger, control dial for multimedia, and a redesigned crystal-like shift-by-wire gear selector. It looks sharp and the build quality exceeds expectations with top notch premium materials. The updated interior also enhanced functionality with a center console storage that  splits open at the center, accessible cup holders, USB-C ports, and aesthetically pleasing and feeling knobs / dials throughout.

Technology:
Technology is a high point of the GV80 with everything ranging from the OLED display to fingerprint authentication to over-the-air updates. At its base the 27” display integrates wirelessly with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The graphics and navigation through the screen are clear and logical. I like the 360-degree view of the GV80 with options to select different areas of the car to navigate to those specific controls. It's an added navigation option through the menus that works well.

The GV80 also features things like a wireless device charger, push button start, USB ports, digital key, head-up display, and Wi-Fi hotspot.  An optional 17-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system fills the interior with quality sound. The GV80's infotainment system may take some getting used to, but the touch screen is crisp, clear, and responsive. Redundant physical buttons on the center stack and steering wheel make accessing certain functions easier. And for the ultimate personalization you can start your GV80 with the tap of your finger, using the standard Fingerprint Authentication System, which can also be used to load driver profile settings for your seat and side mirrors, and more.

Another technology bonus feature that I have come to love with Genesis vehicles is the Mood Curator. The mood curator adjusts the interior ambiance to create various atmosphere settings that play to your senses. Each mood setting offers unique music, lighting, and fragrance, to help personalize your interior. It’s a nice mood booster or relaxing feature to take advantage of when you need it.

Remote Smart Parking Assist is another fun, but also useful, feature to show off to friends. The remote smart park assist enables the GV80 to park itself without you being in the driver’s seat. At the touch of a button on the remote, you can back up or pull the vehicle forward into position. It's nice for tight spaces or if you just need to adjust its position in the driveway.

Seating:
While the GV80 will seat up to seven passengers in the AWD Advanced trim, this is best suited as a five passenger SUV.  The available third row is power folding but offers limited space for adults. All models come standard with synthetic leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with four-way lumbar support, heated front seats and a heated and power-adjustable tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. Available features include genuine leather upholstery, Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a power cushion extension bolster and Ergo Motion seat, heated rear seats, and a microfiber suede headliner and pillars.

The quilted Nappa leather Ergo Motion seats not only look incredible but are beyond comfortable. And to add to the comfort, the GV80 is available with massaging seat functionality that can be controlled through the infotainment screen. There is ample head, leg, and shoulder room for the front and second row passengers.  Overall, the Genesis prioritizes comfort and luxury, with premium seats, making it a great option for those who value a high-end, relaxing cabin.

Cargo:
The Genesis GV80 offers a decent amount of cargo space, making it a practical option for those who need versatility along with luxury. It offers 36.5 cubic feet of space behind the second-row seats and 71.7 cubic feet with the second row folded. The second-row seats are split-folding, allowing you to expand the cargo area as needed, increasing the space significantly. The three-row Advanced trim offers 11.6 cubic feet of storage behind the third row. Additionally, the cargo area is well-designed, with a low lip for easy loading and unloading. There’s a hands-free power liftgate that adds convenience when your hands are full, and the interior features practical touches like a hidden storage compartment for smaller items. This is competitive for its class, though it falls slightly behind some rivals in terms of raw capacity.

Safety / Driver Assist:
Genesis includes a comprehensive driver-assistance suite including forward collision avoidance, blind spot view monitor, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, lane keeping assistance, a rearview camera, parking obstruction warning, driver monitoring, automatic high beams, rear cross-traffic warning, safe exit assist and more. I particularly like the blind spot monitor view in which cameras on the mirrors project images into the digital cluster when the turn signals are engaged. It gives a clear image of what may or may not be in your blind spot. Many of these features cost extra on German rivals.

Another favorite feature is the semi-autonomous driving technology which is an advanced cruise control that will center the GV80 and maintain a set distance from the vehicle it's behind. The system will also automatically change lanes with minimal driver input when it's safe to do so after engaging the turn signals. It pairs nicely with the 3D head-up display that recognizes surrounding vehicles and shows them as 3D blocks on the road. Hands on the steering wheel are required, but the car will do most of the work.

Final Statement:
The Genesis GV80 has been a hit winning several awards since it launched, including this year’s Midwest Automotive Media Association’s Favorite Luxury Vehicle of the Year. It’s a compelling choice in a segment full of strong contenders that have been on the market for a long time. GV80 is different with a contemporary design inside and out that blends luxury and technology seamlessly. With two available powertrains to choose from, there are options for buyers. I was impressed with the V6’s smooth ride and well-balanced handling. I would gladly drive this vehicle daily and across the country on a road trip. Definitely give this a look before you buy that German competitor.

First Impression Summary:
Test Vehicle: 2025 Genesis GV80 3.5T Prestige AWD
Exterior Color: Storr Green
Interior Color: Earth Brown / Smoky Nappa Leather
Options: Paint ($650)
MSRP as tested: $81,300 (With Delivery/Destination)

Pros: Luxurious interior, Advanced technology, Refined road manners, Value
Cons: Tight third row, Average fuel economy