2021 Genesis GV80 vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE

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 own signature look, characterized by a massive trapezoidal grille, Quad Lamp LED headlights, and a sleek, uncluttered interior. The GV80's design was a blend of elegance and modernity, with a focus on authentic materials like real wood, metal, and leather, creating a luxurious and spacious cabin environment.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, with its Selenite Gray paint and 22-inch forged aluminum wheels, presented a more traditional luxury SUV aesthetic. Despite its athletic sneaker-like appearance from certain angles, the GLE Coupe maintained a high-end feel with its sumptuous interior, featuring Nappa leather, a Dinamica suede headliner, and brushed aluminum trim. The GLE's design was both sporty and sophisticated, with a focus on high-tech features and comfort.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 with 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. The GV80's performance was enhanced by an eight-speed automatic transmission and available all-wheel drive. The 3.5T model featured advanced suspension technology, providing a smoother ride by predicting road conditions. The GV80's fuel economy varied, with the 2.5T achieving up to 23 mpg combined and the 3.5T AWD rated at 20 mpg combined.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine with 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque, supplemented by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. This setup provided robust acceleration and improved fuel efficiency, with an EPA rating of 19 mpg combined. The GLE 53 Coupe featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ all-wheel drive, along with multiple driving modes and an AMG sport exhaust system. The SUV's performance was further enhanced by an AMG Active Ride Control suspension and AMG Performance brakes, offering a dynamic and engaging driving experience.

The 2021 Genesis GV80's interior was a blend of technology and luxury, with a focus on ergonomic design. The center console featured a rotary gear selector and a multimedia controller with dual control capabilities. The GV80 offered a comfortable second row with available power adjustments and luxury features like power window shades and climate control. A third row was available on select models, increasing passenger capacity to seven.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe provided seating for up to five, with the front seats offering numerous power adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The back seat was surprisingly spacious, and the cargo area offered 27.5 cubic feet of space, expandable to 63.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The GLE Coupe's interior was equipped with comfort upgrades like a four-zone climate control system and an in-cabin fragrance system, enhancing the overall luxury experience.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 featured a sixth-generation Genesis UX infotainment system with a 14.5-inch HD screen, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system offered cloud connectivity, over-the-air updates, and a digital key function for Android users. The GV80 also included Genesis Connected Services, providing 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, along with a premium Lexicon audio system.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe came standard with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch screens and a range of connectivity options. The system was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition and multiple interaction methods. Optional features included an MBUX Interior Assistant, augmented video for navigation, and an upgraded Burmester audio system. The GLE Coupe's technology package offered a comprehensive and intuitive user experience.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including 10 airbags, adaptive cruise control with machine learning, and a range of collision avoidance systems. The GV80 also offered highway-driving assist and Remote Smart Parking Assist. However, it had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA at the time.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe included standard safety features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The optional Driver Assistance Package added 15 additional systems, including Traffic Jam Assist and Active Lane Change Assist. The GLE Coupe's safety systems were refined and effective, though crash-test results were not available for the Coupe variant.