Article by Tom Appel
Article by Tom Appel2025 Genesis GV80 Prestige AWD
Specifications
Class: Premium Midsize Crossover
Color: Savile Silver
Seating Capacity: 5
Miles Driven: 154
Actual Fuel Economy: 19.8 mpg
| CG Report Card | |
|---|---|
| Room and Comfort | A- |
| Power and Performance | B+ |
| Fit and Finish | A |
| Fuel Economy | B- |
| Value | A |
| The report card reflects the consensus of test drivers and is relative to other vehicles in the same class. The value grade pertains to the specific trim evaluated and may not represent the entire model lineup. | |
| Big & Tall Comfort | |
| Big Guy | B+ |
| Tall Guy | A |
| The big and tall comfort ratings are for the front seats only. The “Big” rating is based on a male tester weighing approximately 350 pounds, while the “Tall” rating is based on a male tester measuring 6’6″. | |
| Drivetrain | |
| Engine Specs | 375-horsepower 3.5-liter |
| Engine Type | Turbocharged V6 |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Drive Wheels | AWD |
Driving Mix: 60% city, 40% highway
EPA-estimated Fuel Economy: 16/22/19 (city/highway/combined)
Fuel Type: Premium gas
Base Price: $79,300 (excluding $1,350 destination charge)
Options on Test Vehicle: Special paint ($650)
Tested Price: $81,300
Pros and Cons
The Great: Luxurious and comfortable interior, quiet ride, extensive list of standard comfort and convenience features.
The Good: Enjoyable acceleration, unique design.
The Not so Good: Average fuel efficiency, steering and handling aren’t quite on par with class leaders.
Review
Consumers can be resistant to change. While many seek out newer products, they often hesitate when those options feel too unfamiliar. Genesis appears to grasp this concept well.
Take Tesla, which has launched over six million electric vehicles in its approximately 15 years of operation with a limited lineup. Despite its success, it has not significantly refreshed any existing models. This lack of updates—coupled with increased competition in the EV market—has led to a notable decline in Tesla’s market share. Consequently, 2024 could mark the first year of declining sales for the brand. Essentially, Tesla may need to revamp its product lineup to maintain consumer interest; has other challenges as well, but that’s a different topic.
Updates
Freshly updated for the 2025 model year, the Genesis GV80 midsize crossover is the most traditional offering from the Korean luxury automaker. Returning customers will notice that the GV80, while updated, still feels reassuringly familiar.
New features for 2025 include a redesigned grille and headlight configuration, new wheel options, fresh color choices, and an upgraded instrument panel with touchscreen. Furthermore, there’s a new GV80 “Coupe,” featuring a stylish fastback roofline and a sleeker profile, although it still has four doors. More details on the GV80 Coupe can be found in other resources.
Engine Options
The GV80 Coupe is unchanged mechanically and continues to use either a 300-horsepower 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine or a powerful 375-horsepower turbocharged 3.5-liter V6. Both engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and feature standard all-wheel drive (AWD).
Trim Levels and Pricing
The 2025 GV80 is available in six trim levels: 2.5T Standard ($59,050), 2.5T Select ($60,050), 2.5T Advanced ($66,950), 2.5T Prestige ($71,800), 3.5T Advanced ($75,150), and 3.5T Prestige ($80,650).
Please note that only the 3.5T Advanced trim includes a third-row seat, increasing the passenger capacity from five to seven, while all other GV80 trims accommodate five passengers only.
Recently, Consumer Guide had the opportunity to drive the top-tier 2025 GV80 3.5T Prestige in Savile Silver. The total cost, including the destination charge, was $81,300.
Controls
In line with contemporary design trends, the 2025 GV80 now includes a single, continuous screen to replace the separate instrument panel and center-console touchscreen. The appearance is sleek and modern, although we found the menu navigation a bit less intuitive compared to previous designs. However, we adapted fairly quickly to the new system. Other modifications include moving the climate controls higher up the console, providing additional space but making these controls feel slightly cramped at their new location.
Interior
The GV80’s interior remains inviting and spacious. As noted in past reviews, the quality of materials and craftsmanship is outstanding, rivaling that of high-end brands like Bentley. The ample space ensures comfort for both the driver and passengers, aided by large door openings for easy access. The rear seating area does not lag significantly in comfort. Additionally, the Bang & Olufsen audio system delivers an impressive sound experience, well-suited for enjoying mid-century American jazz.
Performance
On the road, the GV80 continues to impress. While it may not match the sporty edge of offerings from Audi or BMW, the powerful Genesis provides a smooth and capable driving experience. The turbocharged V6 offers immediate response for acceleration and sufficient power for overtaking or merging onto highways. The standard 8-speed automatic transmission ensures seamless shifts that often go unnoticed during regular driving.
Ride and Handling
The ride quality is exceptional, with the suspension adeptly absorbing minor road imperfections and effectively navigating larger bumps and potholes. However, compared to its European competitors, the GV80 lacks some steering feedback and precision. Overall, handling is competent and somewhat athletic, but it doesn’t provide the same level of driving excitement as the Acura MDX or BMW X5. Nonetheless, it is significantly more engaging than the Lexus RX, known for its refined but less dynamic experience.
Value
We highly regard the Genesis GV80, which combines premium comfort with versatile crossover capabilities, making it ideal for long journeys. While Genesis cars are no longer considered bargains, they still represent great value in their class, particularly concerning cabin quality and materials.
The enhancements made for 2025 are consistent with market trends and don’t significantly elevate the vehicle’s appeal, but that’s acceptable as the GV80 was already an excellent choice in the Premium Midsize Crossover segment. Recognized as a Consumer Guide Best Buy, the GV80 stands out as one of the most intelligent and rewarding options in its category.
More Genesis news and reviews
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2025 Genesis GV80 3.5T Prestige Pictures
Click below for enlarged images
2025 Genesis GV80 Coupe: 2023 Los Angeles Auto Show
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