2021 Genesis GV80 vs 2021 Lexus NX

The 2021 Genesis GV80, as a new entrant in the luxury SUV market, offered a fresh design perspective unburdened by a long legacy. This allowed Genesis to innovate and establish its signature look, characterized by a massive trapezoidal grille, Quad Lamp LED headlights, and elegant two-box design. The GV80's interior was a testament to luxury, featuring a sleek dashboard with minimal controls, a 14.5-inch high-definition display, and authentic materials like real wood and leather. The SUV's design successfully tied in with the brand's sedans, creating a cohesive and sophisticated aesthetic.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus NX retained the familiar design language of its brand, echoing the styling of the smaller UX and larger RX models. The NX's exterior featured sharp lines and a sporty appearance, especially in the F Sport variant, which included a honeycomb grille and 18-inch wheels. Inside, the NX offered a comfortable and upscale environment with quilted NuLuxe sport seats and a familiar gauge cluster. However, the center stack's design appeared dated, and the infotainment system was less user-friendly compared to competitors.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 provided two engine options: a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 producing 375 horsepower. The V6 models came standard with all-wheel drive, while the four-cylinder models offered rear-wheel drive with optional AWD. The GV80's ride was enhanced by an electronically-controlled suspension and an available electronic limited-slip differential. The four-cylinder engine delivered adequate power for most driving situations, while the V6 offered a smoother and more robust performance. Fuel economy for the GV80 ranged from 18 to 25 mpg, depending on the engine and drivetrain configuration.

The 2021 Lexus NX, powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivered 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The NX's six-speed automatic transmission was adequate, though not as smooth as newer multi-speed options. The NX accelerated from zero to 60 mph in about seven seconds, providing a relatively quiet ride despite some engine noise under hard acceleration. The NX offered front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available across all trims. Fuel economy for the NX ranged from 22 to 28 mpg, with the F Sport AWD achieving 24 mpg combined. The NX's adaptive suspension and drive modes contributed to a smooth and comfortable driving 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 circular multimedia controller with dual control capabilities. The second row offered ample space for two adults, with power seats and window shades available. A third row was standard on certain models, increasing passenger capacity to seven. The GV80's interior was a blend of luxury and functionality, with thoughtful design elements and high-quality materials.

The 2021 Lexus NX provided a comfortable and well-styled interior, with front seats offering plenty of room for adults and a 60/40 split-folding rear seat. However, the NX's cargo space was limited, with 17.7 cubic feet behind the second row and 54.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. The NX's interior was quiet, with minimal road and wind noise, and offered features like a power liftgate and power-folding rear seats. Despite its smaller cargo capacity, the NX maintained a luxurious and comfortable cabin environment.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 boasted 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 cloud connectivity for over-the-air updates. Android users could utilize a digital key function, while the GV80 also provided three years of complimentary Genesis Connected Services. A head-up display and a 12.3-inch 3D digital instrument cluster were available on higher trims, along with a premium Lexicon audio system.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 10.3-inch display available in the Navigation package. The infotainment system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though the Lexus interface was less intuitive. The NX offered standard features like keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, and a WiFi hotspot. The Lexus Enform Remote app allowed for remote vehicle control, and a Mark Levinson audio system was available on top-tier models. Despite its comprehensive feature set, the NX's infotainment system was not as user-friendly as some competitors.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including 10 airbags, electronic stability control, and various collision-avoidance assists. The GV80 also offered adaptive cruise control with machine learning and highway-driving assist. While the GV80 had not yet been rated by safety organizations, Genesis aimed for top ratings from IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2021 Lexus NX came standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which included features like lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and forward-collision warning. The NX received top "Good" scores from IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. Lexus Enform Safety Connect provided additional safety services, and the NX was backed by a comprehensive warranty.