2023 Genesis GV80 vs 2023 Ford Bronco

The 2023 Genesis GV80 presented a sophisticated and graceful exterior with its quad-lamp headlights and bold grille, embodying a stately presence at over 16 feet long. The Prestige trim featured 22-inch alloy wheels, enhancing its elegant appearance, especially with the matte Brunswick Green paint. The rear design echoed the quad lamp look with four-part taillamps above the dual exhaust, and the boxy hands-free liftgate added to its charm. Inside, the dark green quilted leather seats complemented the metal and matte wood trim, while the center console was highlighted by three large dials for infotainment, transmission, and drive modes. The two-spoke steering wheel added a unique touch, though the 14.5-inch infotainment screen seemed awkwardly placed atop the dash. Despite this minor annoyance, the interior was spacious and luxurious, offering a pleasant environment.

The 2023 Ford Bronco stood out with its retro-cool styling and modern engineering across nine distinct trim levels. Its blocky shape, wide horizontal grille, and big round headlights were unmistakable. The Base trim had a primitive charm with steel wheels, while the Raptor showcased a wide stance and massive tires. The Heritage trim added nostalgia with a white grille, roof, and plaid seat upholstery. The Bronco's styling was not just for aesthetics; functional elements like cleats above the headlights and raised fins aided in cargo securing and obstacle navigation. Inside, the rugged theme continued with a broad dash and sealed switches for easy cleaning. The interior materials prioritized durability over luxury, with features like drain plugs and marine-grade vinyl upholstery. Despite some creaking over bumps, the Bronco was quieter than a Jeep Wrangler, offering a unique blend of style and function.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 offered all-wheel drive with a choice between a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, or a turbo 3.5-liter V6 with 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with 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 power delivery and shifts were smooth, and the electronically controlled suspension, combined with active noise cancellation, provided a serene freeway commute.

The 2023 Ford Bronco offered three engine choices: a 2.3-liter four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque, a twin-turbo 2.7-liter V6 with 330 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 in the Raptor with 418 hp and 440 lb-ft of torque. All engines came with four-wheel drive and a two-speed transfer case. The base four-cylinder was adequate for most adventures, while the 2.7-liter V6 suited the heavier four-door model. The Raptor's engine provided exhilarating power, though not necessary for most. The Bronco's ride was bouncier than typical SUVs but more stable than a Jeep Wrangler, with quieter interiors. Despite its high-riding dimensions, the Bronco handled curving roads confidently, aided by cameras for maneuvering.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 compensated for its lack of driving excitement with luxury features. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were standard, with ventilated front and rear seats in the tester. The Ergo Motion driver’s seat offered fatigue-reducing inflation pockets. Nappa leather seats added to the sumptuous feel. A third row was optional but cramped. The proximity key and digital key provided convenience, while the tri-zone climate control and 21-speaker stereo system enhanced comfort. The GV80 boasted significant cargo space, with 34.9 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 84 cubic feet with seats folded. It also had a towing capacity of 6,000 pounds.

The 2023 Ford Bronco's boxy shape maximized interior space, with ample room in both two- and four-door models. The four-door model offered easier rear seat access. Up front, storage options included netted door pockets and a rubberized tray for phones. Accessory rails and USB jacks were available for additional equipment. Cargo space varied, with the two-door offering up to 22.4 cubic feet and the four-door up to 35.6 cubic feet, though rear seats didn't fold flat. The Bronco's design allowed for easy removal of fenders and doors, appealing to off-road enthusiasts.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen for infotainment, accompanied by a 12.3-inch 3D digital gauge cluster. The infotainment system had a learning curve, with a dial for navigation and handwriting detection. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available but not wireless. The GV80 included wireless charging, multiple USB ports, and a 110-volt outlet. Remote smart parking assist allowed for maneuvering in tight spaces without the driver in the car.

The 2023 Ford Bronco integrated technology to enhance off-road capabilities with G.O.A.T. drive modes for various terrains. Camera views aided in navigating tight spaces, while Trail Turn Assist allowed sharp turns. The infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with Ford’s SYNC 4. Most Broncos had an eight-inch touchscreen, with a 12-inch display available for easier use.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 was equipped with advanced driver aids, including forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. A video feed of the blind spot was displayed in the digital gauge cluster. Highway Drive Assist provided hands-on/eyes-up driving aid on approved highways. The GV80 received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and a Good rating from IIHS for crashworthiness.

The 2023 Ford Bronco received partial NHTSA ratings, with four stars for frontal crash protection and three stars for rollover protection. IIHS awarded it a Good rating in most crashworthiness tests. Standard safety features included forward collision warning and hill-start assist. The Mid package added blind-spot monitoring and lane-keep assist, while the High and Luxe packages offered additional features like adaptive cruise control.