2023 Genesis GV80 vs 2023 Volvo XC90

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. 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 dash was split by thin horizontal air vents. The center console featured three large dials for infotainment, transmission, and drive modes, and the two-spoke steering wheel added a unique touch. The 14.5-inch infotainment screen, though slightly awkwardly placed, was a minor inconvenience in an otherwise spacious and luxurious interior.

In contrast, the 2023 Volvo XC90 demonstrated a significant evolution from Volvo's past designs, shedding its "rolling brick" image for a more purposeful yet understated look. The front end was stout and solid, with an assertive grille and the recognizable "Thor’s Hammer" headlights adding modern flair. The XC90's dimensions remained somewhat rectilinear, but it was far from the toasters of the past. The AWD Ultimate trim featured 21-inch wheels with low-profile Pirelli Scorpion all-season tires, adding drama to its stoic demeanor. The Platinum Gray paint, with brown undertones, provided richness and depth. Inside, the XC90 boasted an elegant design with two-tone leather on the steering wheel, metal Bowers and Wilkins speaker covers, an Orrefors crystal shift knob, and luxurious Nappa leather upholstery. The minimalist interior featured wood deco inlays, but the lack of physical controls could be frustrating for some.

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 delivering 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. While the GV80 wasn't particularly athletic or nimble, it excelled in highway driving with smooth power delivery and shifts. The electronically controlled suspension, combined with active noise cancellation, provided a quiet and comfortable ride, although its acceleration to 60 mph in about five and a half seconds was slower than some competitors.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 introduced new B5 and B6 engines with mild-hybrid technology, replacing the older T5 and T6 engines. The B5 engine, with a turbocharger and 48-volt mild-hybrid system, produced 247 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, while the B6 engine, featuring a supercharger and turbo, delivered 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The mild-hybrid system improved fuel efficiency slightly and provided smoother operation, though it didn't offer full-hybrid benefits. The XC90's driving experience was enjoyable, with quick acceleration and a responsive eight-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle handled corners well despite its size, and road and wind noise were minimal. The XC90's brakes inspired confidence, and while it lacked extensive off-road features, it offered simplicity in driving dynamics.

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 ventilated front and rear seats available. The Ergo Motion driver's seat offered fatigue-reducing inflation and deflation pockets. Nappa leather seats added to the sumptuous interior. While a third row was optional, its limited legroom made it suitable only for children. 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 significant cargo space, with 34.9 cubic feet behind the second row and 84 cubic feet with seats folded, along with a towing capacity of 6,000 pounds.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 offered a peaceful and pleasant front-seat experience, though Scandinavian minimalism led to some storage frustrations. The lack of dedicated space for smaller items, such as cell phones, was notable. The second row was comfortable but challenging to adjust, and the third row was difficult to access. The XC90 came standard with a second-row bench seat for seven-passenger seating, with an option for captain's chairs at an additional cost. Cargo space was 12.5 cubic feet with the third row in place, expanding to 41.8 cubic feet with seats folded, and maxing out at 65.5 cubic feet. The XC90's smaller size contributed to its car-like driving feel.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, accompanied 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 was cumbersome, though it offered handwriting detection. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, but not wirelessly. The GV80 included wireless charging, multiple USB ports, and a 110-volt outlet. Remote smart parking assist allowed the vehicle to maneuver in and out of tight spaces without the driver inside, adding convenience.

The 2023 Volvo XC90's 9-inch touchscreen infotainment display ran on Google OS, integrating Google Maps, Spotify, NPR, and Google Assistant. Natural-language recognition enhanced the user experience, and commands could be issued via Google Home devices. However, the reliance on the touchscreen for key functions could be frustrating, and more physical controls would have been appreciated. While the minimalist design was appealing, some features required time to get used to.

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. Highway Drive Assist 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 Superior front crash prevention.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of safety, earning a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS. The XC90 featured adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and Pilot Assist technology, which maintained distance and lane position. These safety features were standard on the XC90, reinforcing its reputation as a safe vehicle.