2021 Genesis GV80 vs 2021 Kia Sorento

The 2021 Genesis GV80, as Genesis' first SUV, was a fresh design that managed to balance innovation with the brand's emerging signature style. It featured a sleek two-box design with a long hood and short front overhang, highlighted by a massive trapezoidal grille and distinctive "Quad Lamp" LED headlights. The SUV's exterior was further enhanced by large wheel arches and elegant aluminum-alloy wheels, while the rear echoed the front with Quad Lamp taillights and twin trapezoidal tailpipes. Inside, the GV80 offered a luxurious experience with a sleek, uncluttered dashboard, real wood and leather materials, and a 14.5-inch high-definition display, creating a sophisticated and spacious environment.

In contrast, the 2021 Kia Sorento marked a significant departure from its predecessor's design, adopting a more athletic and muscular silhouette. The Sorento's front featured an expansive tiger-nose grille and distinctive headlights, while a silver accent along the side added visual interest. The rear design included vertical rectangle taillights, contributing to a modern yet cautiously styled appearance. Inside, the Sorento offered practical features like heated mirrors, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with comfortable seating and ample legroom. However, the third row was tight, making it more suitable as a four-seater in higher trims. The Sorento's interior was functional, with thoughtful storage solutions and a total cargo volume of 75.5 cubic feet.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder 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 setups and, on 3.5T models, an electronically-controlled suspension with road preview. The 2.5T provided sufficient power for most driving situations, while the 3.5T offered a smoother and more powerful experience, aided by active noise cancellation. Fuel economy for the 2.5T was rated at 21 mpg city/25 mpg highway with RWD, while the 3.5T AWD achieved 18 mpg city/23 mpg highway.

The 2021 Kia Sorento featured a range of powertrains, including a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 281 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque. The turbocharged engine, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission and AWD, provided ample power for highway driving. The Sorento also offered a hybrid version with a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine and electric motor. The AWD system included torque vectoring and a center-locking differential, enhancing traction and stability. The Sorento's suspension, with McPherson struts and a multi-link rear setup, delivered a smooth ride, while various drive modes allowed for tailored performance. Despite its weight, the Sorento handled corners well, offering a comfortable and controlled driving experience.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 boasted a sophisticated interior with advanced technology and luxury features. The center console and stack featured a rotary gear selector and a circular multimedia controller with dual control capabilities. The HVAC control panel used capacitive touch buttons with intelligent masking to prevent accidental misuse. The GV80's second row was spacious and comfortable, with available power seats and window shades. A third row was standard on 3.5T AWD Advanced+ models, increasing passenger capacity to seven, though it was not available on other trims. The third-row seats had a power-fold function, enhancing versatility.

The 2021 Kia Sorento, while practical, was best considered a four-seater in higher trims due to the tight third row. The second-row captain's chairs were comfortable, and the front and rear seats offered ample legroom. Cargo space was decent, with 12.6 cubic feet behind the third row and a total of 75.5 cubic feet with seats folded. The Sorento provided convenient storage solutions, including a phone spot with optional wireless charging, cupholders, and door pockets. While not as spacious as larger SUVs, the Sorento's interior was functional and well-designed for everyday use.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 featured a cutting-edge infotainment system with a 14.5-inch HD screen, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system offered user-configurable split-screen displays and over-the-air updates. Android users could utilize a digital key function, while Genesis Connected Services provided a range of remote and guidance features. A head-up display and a 12.3-inch 3D digital instrument cluster were available on higher trims. The standard audio system included 12 speakers, with an optional Lexicon Quantum Logic Surround system offering 21 speakers and 1050 watts of amplification.

The 2021 Kia Sorento offered an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on lower trims, while higher trims featured a 10.25-inch screen with haptic touch buttons. The larger screen required a wired connection for smartphone integration, and its layout limited usable display space. The Sorento included numerous USB ports but lacked USB-C options. The optional Bose stereo provided decent audio quality, though not exceptional. The navigation system had room for improvement, but most drivers would likely rely on smartphone apps for navigation.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including 10 airbags, electronic stability control, and various collision-avoidance assists. It also featured adaptive cruise control with machine learning and highway-driving assist, which could perform lane changes and adjust lane position. The GV80's Remote Smart Parking Assist allowed for automated parking in certain situations. While not yet rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, Genesis aimed for top safety ratings.

The 2021 Kia Sorento offered a robust array of standard safety features, such as automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The surround-view camera system provided additional parking assistance. The Sorento received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS, with higher trims achieving better headlight ratings.