2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar vs 2023 Genesis GV80

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar was a testament to Land Rover's long-standing tradition of crafting luxury SUVs. It exuded class and elegance, with a design that was unmistakably Range Rover. The Velar's sporty yet sophisticated appearance, characterized by its long wheelbase, short overhangs, and signature grille, made it stand out among small luxury SUVs. Despite concerns about reliability, the Velar's aesthetic appeal was undeniable, with features like pop-out door handles and a sleek, almost liquid form that combined blocky and streamlined elements. The interior, though less opulent than previous models, maintained high-quality materials and a polished black center stack, offering a refined driving experience.

In contrast, the 2023 Genesis GV80 showcased sophistication and grace with its bold grille and quad-lamp headlights. The midsize SUV's stately presence was enhanced by its matte Brunswick Green paint and 22-inch alloy wheels. Inside, the GV80 continued the dark green theme with quilted leather seats and a dash split by thin air vents, complemented by metal and matte wood trim. The center console featured three large dials for infotainment, transmission, and drive modes, while the two-spoke steering wheel added a unique touch. Despite a minor quibble with the infotainment screen's placement, the GV80's interior was spacious and luxurious, offering a comfortable and elegant environment.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar shared its chassis with the Jaguar F-Pace, resulting in handling and steering that were a departure from traditional Land Rover models. Its lower center of gravity and lighter weight improved cornering and braking, while the optional air suspension provided a plush, isolated ride. The base engine, a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four, delivered 247 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive. While the base engine offered average response, the optional 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six, available in two states of tune, provided up to 395 horsepower and 405 pound-feet of torque, enhancing performance with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 offered a choice between a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a turbo 3.5-liter V6, with the latter producing 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. While the GV80 wasn't particularly athletic or quick, taking about five and a half seconds to reach sixty, it excelled in highway driving. The electronically controlled suspension, combined with active noise cancellation, ensured a smooth and quiet ride, making it ideal for long commutes.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar's interior was tighter than midsize SUVs, with limited headroom and visibility due to its stylish design. Cargo space was modest, offering 16 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 49 cubic feet with the seats folded. The Velar's design choices, such as the lack of a discrete parking brake control, were frustrating, with the P button serving dual functions for parking and engaging the brake. Despite these quirks, the Velar's Pivi Pro infotainment system improved usability with a cleaner interface and faster response.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 compensated for its lack of driving excitement with a wealth of features and luxury touches. Heated and ventilated seats, including the Ergo Motion driver's seat, provided comfort, while the optional third row offered limited legroom. The GV80's utility was impressive, with 34.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 84 cubic feet with the seats folded. Towing capacity was a robust 6,000 pounds. The GV80's interior featured a tri-zone climate control system, a 21-speaker stereo, and a panoramic glass roof, enhancing its appeal.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar's Pivi Pro infotainment system defied expectations with its reliability and user-friendly layout. The system featured a voice assistant, a PM2.5 air filter, and a heated windshield, among other innovations. The navigation system offered intelligent route suggestions, while the 4x4 app provided detailed off-road information. The Velar's instrument panel could display full-width maps and reconfigure gauges, though its driving assist display lacked detail compared to competitors. Standard features included LED headlights, a 12-speaker Meridian stereo, and adaptive cruise control with steering assist.

The 2023 Genesis GV80's infotainment system was housed in a 14.5-inch touchscreen, complemented by a 12.3-inch 3D digital gauge cluster and a head-up display. While the touchscreen was slightly out of reach, the dial offered a tactile experience, albeit with a learning curve. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were present, though not wireless. The GV80 featured remote smart parking assist, allowing the vehicle to park itself without the driver inside. The system's menu structure was inconsistent, but the vehicle offered ample connectivity options, including wireless charging and multiple outlets.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar lacked U.S. crash-test ratings but performed well in the European NCAP, scoring five stars and a 93-percent score for front and side impact tests. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and a driver attention monitor. Optional features included 360-degree cameras and adaptive cruise control with steering assist.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver aids, including forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The GV80's blind-spot video feed in the digital gauge cluster was a standout feature, providing a clear view of the car's blind spot. Highway Drive Assist offered hands-on/eyes-up driving aid, though it struggled in bright sunlight. The GV80 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and high marks from the IIHS, though its headlights and LATCH system were rated as Acceptable.