2022 Subaru Forester vs 2021 Genesis GV80

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 the distinctive "Quad Lamp" LED headlight array. The SUV's exterior was further accentuated 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 2022 Subaru Forester, particularly in its Wilderness trim, emphasized rugged functionality over aesthetic appeal. Its exterior was characterized by a suspension lift, higher ride height, and extensive protective cladding, giving it a robust, overlanding look. Inside, the Forester prioritized practicality with a functional layout, featuring water-repellant StarTex simulated leather and all-weather floor mats. The interior, while somewhat dated, was well-constructed and focused on utility, with an 8-inch Starlink infotainment system and intuitive controls. The Forester's design was less about luxury and more about durability and ease of use, appealing to those seeking adventure and practicality.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, and a more powerful twin-turbo 3.5-liter 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, with the V6 models featuring standard AWD. The SUV's ride was smooth, thanks to its electronically-controlled suspension with road preview and an available electronic limited-slip differential. Fuel economy for the GV80 varied, with the 2.5T achieving up to 23 mpg combined and the 3.5T AWD rated at 20 mpg combined.

The 2022 Subaru Forester continued with its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. While lacking a turbocharger, the Forester's continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive provided adequate performance for most driving situations. The Wilderness model featured a CVT design that increased initial torque supply and doubled the towing capacity to 3,000 pounds. The Forester's fuel economy was competitive, with an EPA rating of 26 mpg combined. Its driving dynamics were pleasing, with a re-tuned suspension and dual-function X-Mode system enhancing off-road capabilities, making it a versatile choice for adventurous drivers.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 was a sophisticated vehicle with a focus on luxury and technology. Its interior featured a complex array of controls, including a rotary gear selector and a circular multimedia controller with dual control capability. The GV80 offered a comfortable second row with available power seats and window shades, while a third row was standard on certain models, increasing passenger capacity to seven. The SUV's interior was spacious and well-appointed, with high-quality materials and advanced features that catered to luxury-seeking consumers.

The 2022 Subaru Forester excelled in functionality, with easy entry and exit and a practical interior design. The Forester Wilderness featured water-resistant StarTex upholstery and all-weather floor mats, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. The SUV's interior was comfortable, with tall seating positions and excellent visibility. It offered decent storage space, with a cargo capacity of up to 74.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The Forester's practicality extended to its upgraded roof rails, accommodating a three-person roof tent, and a full-size spare tire, making it a reliable choice for those seeking adventure and utility.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 boasted a state-of-the-art 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, with cloud profiles for personalized settings. The GV80 featured a digital key function for Android users and came with three years of complimentary Genesis Connected Services. Advanced features included a head-up display and a 12.3-inch 3D digital instrument cluster, while the Lexicon Quantum Logic Surround audio system provided an exceptional audio experience.

The 2022 Subaru Forester offered a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an 8-inch screen available on higher trims. The system included a navigation system and a Harman Kardon premium sound system, providing clear and rich audio. The Forester Wilderness featured a 180-degree forward-view camera for off-roading, and the SUV's technology was complemented by the PIN Code Access feature, allowing keyless entry for outdoor activities. The Forester's infotainment system was user-friendly, though the voice recognition system had room for improvement.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including 10 airbags, vehicle stability management, and a range of collision-avoidance assists. The SUV featured adaptive cruise control with machine learning and highway-driving assist, enhancing driver convenience and safety. The GV80's Remote Smart Parking Assist allowed for automated parking, adding to its advanced safety capabilities. However, the GV80 had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA at the time of review.

The 2022 Subaru Forester debuted the next-generation EyeSight 4.0 safety system, offering improved accuracy and smoother operation. The system included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. The Forester featured a rear-seat reminder system, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert, with the Touring trim adding DriverFocus facial recognition technology. The Forester earned a 5-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA, and it was expected to retain its "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS.