2022 Genesis GV70 vs 2021 BMW X5

The 2021 BMW X5 was a testament to BMW's renowned craftsmanship, fitting seamlessly into the brand's SUV lineup. Its design was unmistakably BMW, from the iconic kidney grille to the body shape, ensuring it stood out as a luxury SUV. However, this familiarity also meant it could blend in with other BMW models in a crowded parking lot. The X5 featured full adaptive LED headlights and a choice of matte aluminum or high-gloss black finishes, depending on the trim. The M Sport models added a sporty flair with body-color matched trims and unique styling elements. Inside, the X5's interior was consistent with BMW's design language, featuring a mix of leather and soft-touch materials, though it was criticized for its overuse of black plastic. The M Sport models offered additional aggressive styling cues, including an M sports steering wheel and exclusive interior trim.

The 2022 Genesis GV70, while borrowing some styling elements from other Genesis models, maintained a unique appearance. It combined quad LED headlights and a large shield-shaped grille with a sloping roofline, giving it a sleek yet rugged look. The Sport Prestige models added character with unique styling features, including a model-specific front fascia and 21-inch wheels with a web pattern. The interior of the GV70 was inspired by an airplane wing's cross-section, featuring an elliptical theme and a minimalistic design. The touchscreen was perched atop the dashboard, and the rotary gear selector added a futuristic touch. Genesis offered a variety of interior color options, and the material quality in the Sport Prestige model was luxurious, with Nappa leather upholstery and suede seat inserts.

The 2021 BMW X5 offered a range of powertrain options, all paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base X5 sDrive40i/xDrive40i featured a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine producing 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. The X5 M50i boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 with 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, while the X5 M delivered 600 hp, increasing to 617 hp with the Competition Package. The X5 xDrive45e plug-in hybrid model achieved 389 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque, with a 30-mile all-electric range. Despite its power, the X5's steering and handling were criticized for lacking the connected drive experience BMW was known for. The SUV's dynamics were likened to those of a Lincoln, with a smooth ride but less engaging handling. The X5's fuel efficiency varied, with the X5 M achieving 15 mpg combined, the X5 M50i at 18 mpg, and the X5 xDrive45e rated at 50 MPGe when using electricity and gas.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 came with two engine options: a 2.5-liter turbo-four producing 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 generating 375 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The GV70 featured a rear electronic limited-slip differential and launch control, emphasizing its sporty intentions. The Sport+ drive mode sharpened throttle response and held high revs, but the chassis and steering lacked the precision of competitors like the BMW X3 or Porsche Macan. The GV70 excelled in highway cruising, though its firm ride and lack of solidity detracted from its luxury feel.

The 2021 BMW X5 made efficient use of space, with well-placed cupholders and a wireless phone charging pad. The seating was spacious and comfortable for short trips, though the front seats could feel hard after extended periods. The rear seats accommodated two adults comfortably, and an optional third row was available. The X5's climate controls were easy to manage, and the split liftgate with power functionality made loading cargo convenient. The X5 xDrive45e offered slightly less cargo space than the traditional X5, but the difference was negligible for most buyers.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 offered mid-pack interior space for its segment. Despite its car-like roofline, it provided adequate headroom and legroom in both rows. The cargo space measured 28.9 cubic feet with the rear seats in place and 56.9 cubic feet with them folded. The daring interior design compromised storage space, with a slim center console and thin door pockets. The front seats in the Sport Prestige model were heavily bolstered, offering heating, ventilation, massage, and posture-assist functions. However, the massage controls were buried in touchscreen menus, and the posture assist activated unexpectedly.

The 2021 BMW X5 came equipped with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The infotainment system included a digital gauge cluster, a 10-speaker sound system, voice recognition, Bluetooth, and navigation. Optional features included a head-up display, massaging seats, and premium audio systems. The iDrive system required some acclimation but was user-friendly once familiar.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system's tile-based layout and crisp graphics were praised, and the glass rotary controller added functionality. Higher trims offered a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with a 3D effect and a 12-inch head-up display. The GV70 included a digital-key feature, a fingerprint scanner, and a radar-based rear-seat monitor. Genesis Connected Services provided additional features like remote camera activation and driver profiles.

The 2021 BMW X5 was equipped with a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. However, the Driving Assistance Professional Package's adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping systems were criticized for their performance. The X5 received nearly all Good ratings from the IIHS and a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 came standard with numerous safety features, such as lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included Highway Driving Assist 2 with lane-change functionality. The GV70's Highway Driving Assist impressed with smooth control inputs, though its lane-centering function struggled with curves.