2023 Genesis GV70 vs 2024 Volvo XC90

The 2023 Genesis GV70 exhibited a design that drew inspiration from its sedan counterpart, the G70, particularly noticeable above the belt-line. The split-bar headlights and a distinctive chrome line that gracefully curved from behind the rear window were key stylistic elements that connected the GV70 to its sedan sibling. This chrome bar cleverly suggested a coupe-like SUV design without compromising versatility. Inside, the GV70's cabin was a testament to luxury, featuring top-notch materials and impeccable fit and finish. The interior design was a harmonious blend of contemporary and classic aesthetics, with climate controls integrated into a curving bezel and a touchscreen that seamlessly emerged from the dash. The GV70's dashboard was equipped with a full touchscreen, complemented by a rotary dial and button controls on the center console, offering a tactile experience superior to touch capacitive controls found in some competitors.

The 2024 Volvo XC90, on the other hand, was available in B5, B6, and Recharge T8 model series, each offering a unique powertrain configuration. The XC90's exterior design was characterized by a subdued and earthy paint palette, aligning with its focus on practicality, safety, and sustainability. The interior, though dated, was adorned with rich materials, especially in the Ultimate trim. Volvo's wool-blend upholstery and ventilated Nappa leather options added a touch of luxury, while the Orrefors crystal shift knob and natural wood trim enhanced the cabin's elegance. The XC90 allowed buyers to mix and match paint, wheels, and upholstery, catering to individual preferences. Despite its dated design, the XC90's interior was a testament to Volvo's mastery of color and materials.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 offered two gas-powered trims: the 2.5T and the 3.5T. The 2.5T was equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. The 3.5T, on the other hand, featured a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive (AWD). The GV70's turbo-four engine provided ample power for most driving situations, while the V6 catered to performance enthusiasts with its extra grunt and throaty engine note. The GV70's driving experience was a refined blend of comfort and sharp handling, allowing for confident cornering and a smooth ride over bumps.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8 combined an 18.8-kilowatt-hour battery and a 107-kilowatt electric motor with the B6 model's supercharged and turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. This setup produced a total of 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque, delivered to all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. The XC90 Recharge T8 offered 32 miles of electric-only driving in Pure mode, with an average of 27 mpg in hybrid mode. The SUV could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in an estimated five seconds in Power mode. Recharging the battery was straightforward, with options for standard household outlets or faster 240-volt outlets. The XC90's driving modes, including Hybrid, Constant AWD, and Off-Road, provided versatility for different driving conditions. However, the XC90's handling was more focused on luxury than performance, with a firm ride and less communicative steering.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 offered 56.9 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 28.9 cubic feet with the seats in use, making it competitive in the compact luxury SUV segment. The GV70 featured a hands-free power liftgate, large cupholders in the center console, and a retractable tray for added convenience. While the front seats provided ample comfort and adjustability, the rear seats had tighter legroom, requiring front-row occupants to adjust their seats for rear passenger comfort. The rear bench was reclinable, enhancing seating comfort.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8, even in Core trim, was well-equipped with power-adjustable and heated front seats, leather upholstery, wood trim, and a four-zone climate control system. The panoramic glass roof added natural light to the interior, and higher trims offered additional features like a heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats with massage, and upgraded interior lighting. The XC90's front seats had adjustable lower leg support bolsters, though they could catch on clothing when entering the vehicle. The SUV's seating was comfortable, with a commanding driving position and good sightlines. The XC90 accommodated seven passengers, with a third-row seat that was surprisingly accommodating. Cargo space was limited with the third-row seat in use, but folding it down provided up to 65.5 cubic feet of cargo capacity, expandable to 85.7 cubic feet with the second-row seat folded.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The touchscreen was user-friendly, with large icons and logical menu navigation. Genesis included helpful buttons in the center console and a rotary dial for scrolling and selecting, though its proximity to the rotary shifter could cause confusion. The GV70 came with four USB ports, wireless device charging, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a nine-speaker stereo system. Optional features included ambient lighting, a digital instrument panel, and the Genesis digital key.

The 2024 Volvo XC90's 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system utilized Google Built-in technology, offering Google Maps, Google Play, and Google Assistant. These features were complimentary for four years, with subscription payments required afterward. Apple CarPlay and SiriusXM satellite radio were standard, with optional Harman Kardon or Bowers & Wilkins audio systems. The XC90's infotainment system, though smaller than some competitors, was intuitive and user-friendly. The digital voice assistant, activated by saying "Hey Google," provided a generally rewarding experience. The XC90 Recharge T8 also included a 12-inch digital instrumentation panel and optional head-up display and surround-view camera.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, driver attention monitoring, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The 2.5T's Advance Package added a blind-spot camera system, reverse automatic emergency braking, and a 360-degree parking camera system, while the 3.5T's Sport Advance package included these features. The Electrified GV70 offered most of these features as standard, with the head-up display available in the Prestige trim.

Volvo's commitment to safety was evident in the 2024 XC90, which received a five-star rating from the NHTSA in all assessments except rollover resistance, where it earned four stars. The IIHS named the XC90 a Top Safety Pick+ in 2023. However, the XC90's advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) lagged behind competitors, lacking innovative features and a hands-free driving system. The SUV included Pilot Assist, which combined adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assist. While Pilot Assist generally performed well, it struggled with certain road conditions and made a significant error during testing, affecting confidence in the system.