It’s Not Easy Getting Out of the 2021 Genesis GV80
The 2021 Genesis GV80 isn’t to get out of. Not because it’s too tall, or the door frame is awkward. This reasonably priced luxury crossover SUV is just nice.
The 2021 Genesis GV80
After driving a ridiculous amount of cars and crossovers in one day at the Texas Auto Roundup, the GV80 was one of the last vehicles I drove. Even at the end of the day, tired, head swimming with all the models I drove back to back, I just didn’t want to step out of the 2021 Genesis GV80 luxury crossover SUV. It was comfortable and impressive––the fit and finish just felt right.
After receiving quite a bit of press after Tiger Woods’ accident, this Genesis SUV model has gotten more attention lately than usual. It’s a great luxury crossover with high safety ratings and the best warranty in the luxury segment. It’s one of the few vehicles I drop that day that I actually wanted to just drive home in.
The tester that the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) procured for the event is the 2021 GV80 AWD 3.5T Advanced model. The Monroney sticker MSRP is $65,775. For anyone shopping for a luxury crossover SUV in this price range, this model is a must-test option. In fact, Motor Authority calls this luxury crossover SUV a “budget Benz.” After testing it myself, I agree.
Base model specs
I highly recommend the advanced package with its luscious leather seating and additional creature comforts. The 3.5-liter turbocharged V6 powertrain upgrade is smooth and satisfying. But the base model still holds its own.
The base model employs a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine. According to the Genesis website, this model is rear-wheel drive and starts at $48,900. The engine is paired with the same 8-speed automatic transmission as the rest of the GV80 lineup.
The base engine produces up to 300 horsepower at 5,800 RPM. That same engine is good for up to 311 lb-ft of torque. The V6 upgrade changes these specs to 375 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. So the numbers aren’t wildly different. Car and Driver reports that “most drivers won’t miss the extra power.”
A luxury crossover SUV
In direct competition with the likes of class favorites like the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class, and the Lexus RX350. It offers a cramped third row. So if you need a true mass human hauler this won’t be the one.
Still, the 2021 Genesis GV80 is an all-new installment in the luxury crossover SUV segment. It’s the Genesis brand’s first SUV. Overall, it hits the necessary marks to impress. In addition, even the range-topping trims are packed with value.
The warranty alone could deter buyers from other luxury options. Not only that, but the SUV looks and feels like the real deal because it is. It’s a new SUV in the luxury class that should do very well for itself. I liked it so much it was actually a little hard to step out of the all-new 2021 Genesis GV80 luxury crossover SUV.
