Genesis GV80 is the first-ever premium crossover from Korea. The Genesis GV80 is similar in size to large SUVs like the BMW X5, but it costs like the BMW X3. The dimensions of the GV80 are two by five meters, like famous large German crossovers, such as the BMW X5 or Audi Q7.
The vehicle looks fashionable and expensive. At the same time, it does not copy anyone. Thanks to the unique design you can easily recognize it among other vehicles. The gigantic radiator grille in the form of a coat of arms catches the eye. The nozzles of the exhaust system have the same shape. Another stylistic feature of the model is double stripes. They start at the headlights, continue as two overlays on the front fenders, and end at the rear lights.
There are two petrol engines: a four-cylinder 2.5 with a capacity of 249 hp and a 3.5-liter V6 with 379 hp. These units have an interesting combined injection system. The injectors are installed both in the intake manifold and in the combustion chamber (a combination of distributed and direct injection). The injectors in the combustion chamber are connected at high loads. There is also a diesel engine – an in-line three-liter V6 with a capacity of 249 hp. The all-wheel drive is optional and the rear-wheel drive is standard.
Despite its glamorous looks, the Genesis GV80 is rather good off-road. But on the asphalt, you understand why the car is much cheaper than European competitors – it is still inferior. GV80 with a diesel engine speeds up to 100 km/h in less than 8 seconds. And it consumes about 10 liters of fuel per 100 km. Diesel engines are available only for the European market.
The gearbox for all engines is the same – an eight-speed automatic. It can withstand a torque of up to 700 Nm, while this figure is lower for all engines. There should be no problems with the reliability of the gearbox.
Parking assistants can be found today not only on premium but also on regular models. But the GV80 has expanded the capabilities of the car parker. In the most expensive versions, there is an RSPA (Remote Smart Parking Assist) system.
The driver can get out of the car – the GV80 will park itself. To do this, you need to drive past the desired parking spot at a low speed (about 20 km / h) so that the car can see it, then exit and press the corresponding button on the smart key. The sensors recognize not only other cars but all obstacles – posts, fences, people. If someone suddenly “jumps out” in front of a moving vehicle, it will immediately stop. The car can drive to you, to a spacious and comfortable place. This is a nice option, especially if there is a deep puddle under the driver’s door or a dirty car is next to it.
The level of comfort inside is impressive. At the front, there is double glazing, triple-contoured door seals, and thick soundproofing – all this contributes to acoustic comfort. The top-end versions offer excellent sounding Lexicon acoustics.
An interesting option is a virtual dashboard with a 3D effect. Two sensors are mounted in the upper part, they follow the eyes of the driver. The 3D image is formed depending on the direction of the gaze. If desired, the effect can be turned off.
The interior is made from very high-quality materials. Soft plastic is found even at the bottom of the door trim. The upholstery color palette is wide. The 15-inch screen of the media system is available already in the basic version. There are also heated seats and a power liftgate. The Prestige model has rear seats with cooled and heated cushions and Nappa leather upholstery.
If we don’t pay attention to some insignificant flaws, we can say with confidence: never before have Korean vehicles come so close to the Germans cars in quality and comfort. At the same time, the price of the GV80 is significantly lower. The price for the basic model starts at $50 000, the most luxurious 3.5T Prestige costs $71 000.