Genesis just seems to keep on delivering stylish, luxurious, and powerful vehicles that resonate with consumers.
Over the recent months, I have tested a few Genesis models that really impressed me, and I can now add a third to that list, the 2023 Genesis GV80 3.5 T Prestige AWD.
The larger of the SUVs in the automaker’s lineup, the GV80 is offered in four trims, starting with the 2.5T Advanced AWD ($76,000), moving up to the 3.5T Advanced, Prestige AWD or Prestige AWD with a third row.
Our tester was the 3.5T Prestige AWD, with a price of $90,500.
In addition to a larger engine than the base model, it comes with additional features such as comfortable Nappa leather quilter seating, ventilated front and second row seats, Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA), power second row seat recline, slide and cushion tilt, road active noise cancellation, microfibre suede headliner, power-operated side rear sunshades and more.
Powertrain: A major bright spot for me with the GV80 3.5T is the powerplant.
The larger 3.5-litre twin turbo V6 engine is smooth and powerful. It delivers 375 horsepower and has a potent 391 pound-feet of torque on offer. It is paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission, and an all-wheel drive system.
This is a powerful engine, and it moves the large GV80 with ease, and there’s no noticeable turbo lag to speak of.
Fuel economy for the 3.5T engine is rated at 11.8 litres of premium fuel per 100 kilometres, however I averaged no better than 14.7 L/100 km.
Exterior: Like most Genesis models, the GV80 is a head turner.
Starting with that large signature Crest grille and quad headlamps, the front end is elegant and stylish.
The GV80 has a wide stance and appearance, and elegant lines throughout its design.
The exterior is capped off by a shiny set of 22-inch alloy wheels.
On our tester, the combination of the red exterior and all the shiny chrome accents gives the GV80 a standout appearance.
The rear features matching quad taillight that wrap around the side of the vehicle, and massive dual exhausts.
Interior: The cabin is absolutely gorgeous and well done. Kudos to Genesis on this, but it’s also something I have found in their other models. They just do it right.
The quilted leather seating is supremely comfortable – and the quilting extends to other parts of the cabin.
In the tester, it comes with a 12.3-inch 3D TFT LCD digital instrument cluster which is really nice and crisply displays all your driving information.
The materials in the cabin are of high quality, and the fit and finish are both excellent.
Rear occupants are also well served by the seating, with ample space. The powered sunshades built into the doors are a nice feature.
On minor quibble comes from the centre console, which features two large dials – one for the infotainment screen and one for the transmission. I find these two dials a little too close together and could lead to confusion – or worse.
Infotainment: The GV80 3.5T Prestige comes with an impressive 21-speaker Lexicon premium audio system, pumping out sweet tunes for all you audiophiles thanks to the QuantumLogic surround sound feature.
The system is powered through a 14.5-inch touchscreen, and a user-friendly interface.
It is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and features wireless device charging.
Drive: Being behind the wheel of the GV80 is a real pleasure. With lots of power on offer, and an excellently tuned suspension, the ride is comfortable and offers good handling.
While perhaps not meant as a sporty vehicle, it certainly seems capable of holding its own on the twists and turns, while at the same time ensuring the occupants enjoy a smooth ride.
A neat feature is the remote parking, which allows you to move the GV80 into and out of tight parking spots with the touch of a button on the key fob. Pretty cool.
Conclusion: As stated at the outset, the GV80 is a stylish, powerful, and luxurious SUV from Genesis, which has really blossomed into an automaker that has a certain cachet among consumers.
And the 3.5T Prestige definitely lives up to that moniker thanks to the interior amenities for passengers, and an exterior styling that is sure to grab attention wherever you go.
2023 Genesis GV80 3.5T Prestige
2023 Genesis GV80 3.5T Prestige
2023 Genesis GV80 3.5T Prestige
2023 Genesis GV80 3.5T Prestige
2023 Genesis GV80 3.5T Prestige
Price as tested: $90,500.00
Configuration: Front engine/All-wheel drive
Engine/transmission: 3.5-litre Twin Turbo V6/ 8-speed automatic
Power/torque: 375 horsepower/ 391 lb-ft of torque
Fuel (capacity): Premium (80 L)
Combined fuel economy ratings (L/100 km): 11.8 L/100 km
Observed fuel economy (L/100 km): 14.7 L/100 km
Warranties: 5-years/100,000 km (basic)
Competitors: Audi Q8, BMW X5, Infiniti QX50, Lincoln Nautilus, Mercedes-Benz GLE Class, Volvo XC90
Website: Genesis Canada