2023 Genesis GV80 vs 2023 Subaru Forester

The 2023 Genesis GV80 presented a sophisticated and graceful exterior, highlighted by its quad-lamp headlights and bold grille. This midsize SUV, measuring over 16 feet in length, exuded a stately presence. Standard 19-inch wheels were available, but the Prestige trim featured impressive 22-inch alloy wheels. The rear design mirrored the front with four-part taillamps above dual exhausts, and the hands-free liftgate maintained a boxy shape, contributing to its elegant appearance, especially in the matte Brunswick Green paint. Inside, the dark green quilted leather seats complemented the metal and matte wood trim, while the center console featured 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 comfortable environment.

In contrast, the 2023 Subaru Forester maintained a functional design, prioritizing substance over style. Its appearance was reminiscent of previous Forester models, especially in Cascade Green Silica paint. The Forester came in various trims, with the Touring trim offering the best aesthetics, featuring 18-inch alloy wheels and satin chrome exterior trim. The robust roof rails were a practical addition, supporting up to 700 pounds of static weight. Inside, the Forester Touring boasted Saddle Brown leather, exposed stitching, and metallic accents, maintaining a traditional Subaru design with analog gauges and an 8-inch touchscreen. While hard plastic was prevalent, it facilitated easy cleaning. The interior layout was busy but practical, with traditional buttons and knobs for easy control. Despite its back-to-basics nature, the Forester's design was appreciated for its functionality.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options, both paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produced 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, while the turbo 3.5-liter V6 in our test model delivered 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. Despite its power, the GV80 was not particularly quick, taking about five and a half seconds to reach sixty mph, slower than some competitors. It handled turns adequately but lacked the agility of its German rivals. However, the GV80 excelled in highway driving, with smooth power delivery and shifts. The electronically controlled suspension, combined with active noise cancellation, ensured a quiet and comfortable ride.

The 2023 Subaru Forester featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine generating 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and all-wheel drive. The CVT mimicked a traditional automatic with eight programmed ratios, and the Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-Drive) system offered a Sport mode for enhanced responsiveness. Most trims included an X-Mode off-road traction management system, with additional settings for different terrains. The Forester Wilderness trim provided even greater off-road capability. During testing, the Forester Touring handled various weather conditions with ease, inspiring confidence in its capabilities. While the engine was merely adequate, the Forester's excellent driving dynamics, including light and accurate steering, responsive brakes, and well-tuned suspension, contributed to a comfortable and engaging ride. However, the Forester's fuel economy fell short of expectations, and a turbocharged engine option would have been appreciated.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 compensated for its lack of driving excitement with numerous luxury features. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were standard, with our test model offering ventilated front and rear seats. The Ergo Motion driver's seat provided fatigue-reducing adjustments, and the Nappa leather seats were exceptionally comfortable. A third-row option was available, though legroom was limited. The GV80 featured Genesis puddle lamps, a proximity key, and a digital key option. The tri-zone climate control system and optional 21-speaker stereo system enhanced comfort and entertainment. The GV80 boasted ample cargo space, with 34.9 cubic feet behind the second row and 84 cubic feet with the seats folded. It also had a towing capacity of 6,000 pounds.

The 2023 Subaru Forester prioritized function over form, offering practical features across its trims. The Premium trim included a panoramic glass sunroof, power-adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats, and more. Higher trims offered additional luxury features, such as StarTex artificial leather or genuine leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, and heated rear seats. The Forester's excellent outward visibility and easy entry and exit made it user-friendly. However, the panoramic sunroof's insufficient tinting and lack of ventilated front seats in the Touring trim were drawbacks. The Forester's interior storage was plentiful, with well-sealed doors and a spacious cargo area. It offered 26.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the back seat, expanding to 69.1 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, complemented by a 12.3-inch 3D digital gauge cluster and a head-up display. While the infotainment screen was slightly out of reach, the dial control offered a tactile experience, though navigating through icons was cumbersome. The system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, albeit not wirelessly. The GV80 included wireless charging, multiple USB ports, and a 110-volt outlet. The remote smart parking assist allowed the vehicle to maneuver in and out of tight spaces without the driver inside, adding convenience.

The 2023 Subaru Forester's technology appeared outdated at first glance, but its functionality was appreciated. The Base trim featured a 6.5-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims offered satellite radio, HD Radio, and Starlink connected services. An 8-inch touchscreen with navigation and a Harman Kardon audio system was available. The Forester's user interface was straightforward, with separate climate controls and easy-to-use knobs and buttons. However, the voice-recognition system was unreliable, making Apple CarPlay or Android Auto preferable for navigation.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver aids, including forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. A standout feature was the video feed of the car's blind spot displayed in the digital gauge cluster. The Highway Drive Assist system provided hands-on/eyes-up driving aid on approved highways, though it struggled in bright sunlight. The GV80 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Good rating for crashworthiness from the IIHS, with some areas rated as Acceptable.

The 2023 Subaru Forester featured the next-generation EyeSight system, offering improved driving assistance and collision avoidance technologies. Models with blind-spot monitoring included Automatic Emergency Steering, and higher trims added Rear Automatic Braking. The DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System in the Touring trim monitored driver attention. The Forester received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, a step down from the previous year's Top Safety Pick+ award, and five-star crash-test ratings from the NHTSA.