2021 Genesis GV80 vs 2022 Volvo XC90

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 long hood, short front overhang, and a distinctive grille with a diamond mesh and the Genesis flying "G" badge. The SUV's design was further accentuated by the "Quad Lamp" LED headlight array and large wheel arches over aluminum-alloy wheels. The interior was a testament to luxury, with a sleek dashboard, minimalistic controls, and authentic materials like real wood and leather, creating a sophisticated and spacious environment.

In contrast, the 2022 Volvo XC90 embraced its Swedish heritage with a modern twist. The SUV's design was sleek and athletic, with a long roofline and pronounced wheel arches. The "Thor's Hammer" LED headlights added a playful nod to its origins. Inside, the XC90 exuded "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury," with natural wood and metal trim. The interior was both functional and elegant, featuring a sliding wood tambor cover and a clear crystal gear selector handle. Volvo's commitment to sustainability was evident in its upholstery options, offering both Nappa leather and a tailored wool blend.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet 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. The GV80's ride was enhanced by an electronically-controlled suspension with road preview on the 3.5T models, providing a smooth driving experience. Fuel economy for the 2.5T was 21 mpg city/25 mpg highway, while the 3.5T AWD achieved 18 mpg city/23 mpg highway.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 250 hp, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version delivering 316 hp, and the T8 plug-in hybrid with a combined 455 hp. The T5 models were front-wheel drive with optional AWD, while the T6 and T8 were AWD only. The T8's electric motor provided a seamless power delivery, enhancing the driving experience. Fuel economy for the T5 FWD was 21 mpg city/30 mpg highway, while the T8 achieved 27 mpg combined on gas and 55 MPGe with an 18-mile EV range.

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 multimedia controller with dual control capability. The second row offered ample space for two adults, with power seats and window shades available. The third row, standard on 3.5T AWD Advanced+ models, increased passenger capacity to seven but was limited in availability.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 provided flexible seating configurations, with six or seven-passenger options. The third row was accessible via a one-handed slide and fold of the second row, though it was best suited for children. The XC90 offered generous cargo space, with up to 85.7 cubic feet available with the second and third rows folded. The interior was designed for family comfort, with ample storage and a panoramic moonroof enhancing the cabin's airy feel.

The 2021 Genesis GV80's infotainment system featured a 14.5-inch HD screen with split-screen displays, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system offered cloud connectivity and over-the-air updates, with personalized driver profiles. The GV80 also included Genesis Connected Services, providing remote functions and vehicle health reports. A head-up display and a 21-speaker Lexicon audio system were available on higher trims.

The 2022 Volvo XC90's Sensus infotainment system offered tablet-like functionality with a nine-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen. While the system was intuitive, it occasionally lagged, performing better with Apple CarPlay. The XC90 included a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and an optional head-up display. The Bowers & Wilkins audio system upgrade provided exceptional sound quality, and the vehicle offered multiple USB ports and a WiFi hotspot.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 was equipped with 10 airbags and a suite of advanced safety features, including blind-spot collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and forward collision-avoidance assist. It also featured adaptive cruise control with machine learning and highway-driving assist. However, it had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of safety with features like blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping aid, and adaptive cruise control. The Pilot Assist system provided semi-autonomous driving assistance on highways. The XC90 received top safety ratings, earning the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.