2021 Audi Q3 vs 2021 Genesis GV80

The 2021 Genesis GV80, as Genesis' first SUV, was a fresh design unburdened by a long legacy. It successfully integrated the brand's signature styling cues, such as the massive trapezoidal grille and Quad Lamp LED headlights, creating a distinctive look. The SUV's elegant two-box design featured a long hood and short front overhang, with big wheel arches over aluminum-alloy wheels. Inside, the GV80 offered a sleek, uncluttered dashboard with a 14.5-inch widescreen display, real wood, metal, and leather, emphasizing luxury and spaciousness.

In contrast, the 2021 Audi Q3 showcased a postmodern automotive styling with its massive corporate grille and chunky design, suggesting utility and dynamic handling. The interior echoed this modern aesthetic, with a standout dash design framing the center touchscreen. Although Audi's non-luxury sibling Volkswagen had caught up in design, the Q3's cabin remained refined. The Q3 offered trims like Premium and Premium Plus, with features such as leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and an 8.8-inch touchscreen, enhancing its appeal.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered two engine choices: a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 producing 375 horsepower. The V6 models came with standard all-wheel drive, while the four-cylinder models had rear-wheel drive with optional AWD. The GV80 featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and independent multi-link suspension. The 2.5T model, weighing between 4,506 and 4,850 lbs, provided sufficient power for most driving situations, while the 3.5T, weighing between 4,907 and 5,104 lbs, offered a smoother and stronger performance. Fuel economy for the 2.5T was 21/25/23 mpg (city/highway/combined) with RWD, and the 3.5T AWD was rated at 18/23/20 mpg.

The 2021 Audi Q3 came with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Quattro AWD. The S-Line trim offered a more potent 228 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The Q3's powertrain felt lively, especially in Sport mode, which enhanced throttle response and transmission mapping. The Q3 featured Audi’s Drive Select with multiple drive modes, providing nimble handling and a comfortable ride. Turbo lag was more pronounced in the base engine, but the overall driving experience was engaging.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 featured a sophisticated interior with a rotary gear selector and a circular multimedia controller. The second row was spacious, with power seats and luxury features like three-row climate control. The third row, available only on specific trims, increased passenger capacity to seven.

The 2021 Audi Q3 offered 48 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats folded and 23.7 cubic feet behind the seats. While cargo space was limited, the Q3 compensated with ample passenger space, providing comfortable seating for up to five, with impressive headroom and legroom.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 boasted a 14.5-inch HD screen with split-screen displays, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It featured cloud-connected profiles, NFC digital key for Android users, and three years of Genesis Connected Services. A head-up display and a 12.3-inch 3D digital instrument cluster were available on higher trims. The audio system included a 21-speaker Lexicon Quantum Logic Surround system.

The 2021 Audi Q3 came with an 8.8-inch touchscreen running Audi’s MMI system, with standard Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay. An upgraded 10.1-inch touchscreen with navigation was available, along with wireless charging and a Bang & Olufsen audio system. The Audi Virtual Cockpit offered a customizable digital display.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 had not been rated by IIHS or NHTSA but aimed for top safety ratings. It included 10 airbags, stability management, and a suite of driver assistance features like blind-spot collision avoidance and adaptive cruise control with machine learning. The GV80 also offered Remote Smart Parking Assist.

The 2021 Audi Q3 came standard with Audi Pre Sense and Pre Sense Front, including forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and a 360-degree camera system.