2021 Chevrolet Suburban vs 2021 Genesis GV80

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban presented a bold and somewhat polarizing front-end design, borrowing elements from the Camaro's design language. This approach resulted in a combination of small headlights and large, busy grilles that did not necessarily enhance its aesthetic appeal. Despite these exterior design choices, the interior of the Suburban remained familiar and functional, with controls conveniently placed and a user-friendly infotainment system. The range-topping High Country trim offered upscale features like a panoramic sunroof and a rear-seat media system, but it lacked the soft-touch materials typical of a true luxury SUV, making it feel more like an upscale pickup.

In contrast, the 2021 Genesis GV80, as Genesis' first SUV, was a fresh design that successfully integrated the brand's signature styling cues. Its elegant two-box design featured a long hood, a massive trapezoidal grille, and distinctive Quad Lamp LED headlights. The GV80's interior was a highlight, with a sleek and uncluttered dashboard, authentic materials like real wood and leather, and a sophisticated center console. The GV80's design and build quality were impressive, offering a true luxury SUV experience with a focus on technology and comfort.

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban offered a range of engine options, including a standard 5.3-liter V8 with 355 horsepower and a more powerful 6.2-liter V8 producing 420 hp. A newly available 3.0-liter Duramax turbodiesel engine delivered 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque, providing excellent pickup and towing capabilities. All engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, with rear-wheel drive standard and four-wheel drive available. The Suburban's independent rear suspension improved ride quality, but it still exhibited some truck-like handling characteristics, such as body roll and susceptibility to crosswinds.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered two engine choices: a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 300 hp and a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 producing 375 hp. The V6 models came with standard all-wheel drive, while the four-cylinder models had rear-wheel drive with optional AWD. An eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters was standard. The GV80's electronically-controlled suspension with road preview provided a smooth ride, and the V6 engine's active noise cancellation enhanced cabin quietness. The GV80's fuel economy was competitive, with the 2.5T achieving up to 23 mpg combined and the 3.5T AWD rated at 20 mpg combined.

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban excelled in cargo space, offering a massive 144.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Even with the second-row seats in use, it provided 93.8 cubic feet of cargo space, making it ideal for road trips. The interior was spacious, with ample head- and legroom for passengers. However, the button shifter design and power-sliding center console were less intuitive features that detracted from the overall user experience.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 featured a sophisticated interior with a focus on technology and ergonomics. The center console housed a rotary gear selector and a multimedia controller with a knurled metal finish. The second row was comfortable and roomy, with available power seats and window shades. A third row was standard on certain models, increasing passenger capacity to seven. The GV80's interior design and luxury features made it a standout in its class.

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban came standard with a 10.2-inch touchscreen running GM's intuitive infotainment system, which included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. An available rear entertainment system and head-up display added to the convenience and entertainment options for passengers.

The 2021 Genesis GV80's infotainment system was a highlight, featuring a 14.5-inch HD screen with user-configurable split-screen displays. It supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and offered over-the-air updates. The GV80 also included a digital key function for Android users and a comprehensive suite of Genesis Connected Services, enhancing connectivity and convenience for owners.

The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban was equipped with automatic emergency braking, forward-collision avoidance, and rear parking sensors. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. Unique options like the rear-view camera mirror and Safety Alert Seat provided additional safety benefits.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 came with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including 10 airbags, blind-spot collision avoidance, and adaptive cruise control with machine learning. The GV80's advanced safety technologies aimed to provide a high level of protection and convenience for drivers and passengers.