2021 Genesis GV80 vs 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC presented a familiar yet slightly refreshed design, with a new front fascia featuring a trapezoidal grille and angled LED headlights. These updates aligned it with the aggressive styling of the A-Class and CLS-Class. The taillights retained their square LED design, making the changes subtle unless compared directly with older models. While the GLC's proportions were adequate, the mass-market GLC 300 lacked visual excitement, prompting some to consider alternatives like the Volvo XC60 or Acura RDX. The AMG versions, with their distinctive grilles and wider tires, added some flair, while the GLC Coupe's fastback roof offered a touch of elegance. Despite its understated exterior, the GLC boasted one of the best interiors in the industry, with high-quality materials and impeccable fit and finish. The 2020 model introduced a standard 10.3-inch touchscreen, replacing the previous smaller displays, and a more advanced steering wheel with additional controls.

The 2021 Genesis GV80, as Genesis' first SUV, had the advantage of a clean-slate design, free from legacy constraints. It successfully incorporated design elements from the G80 sedan, featuring a long hood, short front overhang, and a distinctive grille with a diamond mesh pattern. The "Quad Lamp" LED headlights and taillights established a signature look for the brand. The GV80's exterior was complemented by large aluminum-alloy wheels and a rear design echoing the front's elegance. Inside, the GV80 offered a luxurious and technologically advanced cabin, with a sleek dashboard and minimalistic controls. The center console featured a rotary gear selector and a 14.5-inch high-definition display. The use of authentic materials like real wood and leather added to the premium feel, making the GV80's interior a standout in the luxury SUV segment.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 was equipped with a new turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine, producing 255 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, offered improved performance over previous models, with better gear holding and downshifting. However, it still fell short in terms of sound quality and response compared to competitors like the BMW X3. The AMG GLC 43, with its twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine, delivered 385 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque, providing a thrilling driving experience. The AMG GLC 63 models offered even more power with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, but the GLC 300's handling and steering were less impressive, with noticeable body roll and vague steering. Fuel economy for the GLC 300 4Matic was rated at 21 mpg city, 28 highway, and 24 combined.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, and a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 producing 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. The V6 models came standard with all-wheel drive, while the four-cylinder models had rear-wheel drive with optional AWD. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The GV80's suspension system included independent multi-link suspension and, on 3.5T models, electronically-controlled suspension with road preview. The 2.5T engine provided sufficient power for most driving situations, while the 3.5T offered a smoother and more powerful experience. The GV80's fuel economy was rated at 21 mpg city, 25 highway, and 23 combined for the 2.5T RWD, and 18/23/20 for the 3.5T AWD.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured a mix of digital and physical controls, with a steep learning curve for those unfamiliar with modern Mercedes vehicles. The column shifter and door-mounted seat controls were unconventional but practical. The Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) system offered a user-friendly interface with customizable home screens and shortcut buttons. The GLC provided adequate space for four adults, though the back seat's reclining mechanism was cumbersome. Cargo space was limited, with 19 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 57 cubic feet with them folded.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 boasted a sophisticated interior with a focus on technology and ergonomics. The center console featured a rotary gear selector and a multimedia controller with dual control capability. The HVAC control panel used capacitive touch buttons with intelligent masking to prevent accidental misuse. The GV80's second row was comfortable for two adults, with available power seats and window shades. A third row was standard on certain models, increasing passenger capacity to seven. The third-row seats had a power-fold function, adding to the GV80's versatility.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC's MBUX system included advanced features like augmented reality navigation and a cloud-based voice assistant. While some features were ahead of their time, they were not fully integrated, leading to limited functionality. The system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with optional wireless charging. An Off-Road Engineering Package was available for those seeking additional driving modes and underbody protection.

The 2021 Genesis GV80's infotainment system was a highlight, featuring a 14.5-inch HD screen with user-configurable displays. It supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with over-the-air updates and cloud profiles for personalized settings. The GV80 offered a digital key function for Android users, allowing keyless entry and vehicle configuration. Genesis Connected Services provided a range of features, including remote start, vehicle health reports, and destination search. A head-up display and a 12.3-inch 3D digital instrument cluster were available on higher trims, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, with features like Exit Warning Assist and Pre-Safe Sound enhancing its safety credentials. The GLC's advanced safety systems, including predictive brake priming, set it apart from many competitors.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but Genesis aimed for top safety ratings. The GV80 came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including 10 airbags, adaptive cruise control with machine learning, and highway-driving assist. Its advanced safety systems, such as blind-spot collision avoidance and forward collision-avoidance assist, provided peace of mind for drivers.