The Genesis GV80 is a large two or three-row luxury SUV, depending on the trim you select. The GV80 has a gasoline powertrain, it’s not electric. Introduced in 2021, the GV80 will enter an all-new generation in late 2024 as a 2025 model year vehicle. This vehicle will appeal to those shoppers who want a very luxurious and comfortable experience. It’s not particularly sporty, nor is it an off-road or utility-focused SUV.

The GV80 is a very nice luxury vehicle. If you are looking for a sporty vehicle or one you can take off the pavement, look at other models in the Hyundai-Genesis-Kia lineup. The GV80 is a luxury vehicle best used as a large and comfortable car driven sedately.

When we tested the new Mazda CX-90, the Genesis GV80 was one of the vehicles it reminded us of. The CX-90 has three rows standard, as opposed to the third row being optional on select trims of the GV80. The Mazda is more interesting in many ways. More modern. The CX90 has a turbocharged inline 6-cylinder engine with a mild hybrid system or a plug-in hybrid paired with a four-cylinder engine.

The Lexus RX is a long-standing leader in the premium SUV market. The RX is a bit smaller than the GV80, and the TX is a bit larger. Lexus offers much more modern electrified engines in its RX and TX than Genesis does in the GV series.

Our pick for the best luxury vehicle in the GV80’s segment would be the Volvo XC90. The Volvo is much more interesting to drive and offers multiple electrified powertrains. In terms of fit and finish and luxury appointments, the Volvo is in the game with the Genesis. Both have their own identities, but they are also very luxurious.

The base GV80 starts at about $60K and includes a four-cylinder turbocharged engine and AWD as standard equipment. The top-trim 3.5T V6 AWD Prestige Signature tops out at about $85K.

Genesis plans to replace the current GV80 in 2025 with an all-new generation. The 2024 model year GV80 will have a shorter than normal production run and is a carryover from prior years.

The GV80 we tested was a top trim. We enjoyed a serene driving experience with the GV80. It is not a vehicle that wants to be hurried. It is not an off-pavement SUV. The theme here is an old-school luxury cruiser. Steering is fine, but not razor-sharp. Handling is soft. On the highway, we had to steer the GV80 more than we expected. There are lots of small corrections needed to keep it pointed straight ahead. We did try the driver assist systems and found they worked very well.

One area that spoiled some of the driving enjoyment of the GV80 was its overly complex infotainment system. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay require a cord. It's almost shocking at this price point since Hyundai’s entry-level Elantra has a better wireless system standard.

The GV80 has earned the Top Safety Pick+ designation from IIHS. https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2023/Genesis/GV80 scored the GV80 five stars. It does not get any safer than that.

The Consumer Reports reliability score for the 2024 GV80 surprised us. It is just 30/100, and prior years scored low. Brakes, build quality, and electronics were all trouble spots. However, Genesis earned a second place overall ranking from J.D. Power on its 2023 Dependability Study.

Normally, we advise shoppers of luxury vehicles to go for the top trim and up-powered engine. However, the personality of the GV80 is such that we would not bother. We would consider the base vehicle and be sure to take it for an extended test drive.

No brand offers a better warranty and ownership experience package than Genesis. As you can see from the Genesis data below, the warranty for the initial owner runs ten years, and the included maintenance is impressive. However, in our family, we have a Genesis G80 sedan. We have found that in Metro Boston, finding a convenient Genesis dealer is not easy.

• Powertrain Limited Warranty: 10 years / 100,000 miles
• New Vehicle Limited Warranty: 5 years / 60,000 miles
• Anti-Perforation Warranty: 7 years / unlimited miles
• 24-Hour Roadside Assistance: 5 years / unlimited miles
• Complimentary Scheduled Maintenance: 3 years / 36,000 miles
• If buying used, consider our list of best extended warranty providers

Given the low reliability rating from Consumer Reports, we would suggest that shoppers look for a certified pre-owned Genesis GV80. In addition, ensure you have a local Genesis dealer who can service the vehicle for you.

One important note: The long Genesis Powertrain Warranty applies only to the first owner, so as a second owner, the warranty ends after 5 years or 60K miles.

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