2024 Genesis GV80 vs 2023 Honda HR-V

The 2023 Honda HR-V underwent a significant styling transformation, shedding some of its previous quirky charm for a more sophisticated and modern appearance. The lowered beltline and simplified detailing contributed to a sleeker look, with cleaner lines and fewer interruptions. The windshield wipers were discreetly tucked under the hood, and the black molding strips on the roof were removed. The test model, finished in Nordic Forest Pearl, showcased one of the two new color options. The HR-V offered various wheel designs, with the Sport trim featuring 18-inch black alloy wheels and a more aggressive grille.

Inside, the HR-V's interior was refined, echoing the trend set by the 2022 Civic. The EX-L trim, which was tested, featured perforated leather seats, dual-zone climate control, and a power moonroof. The metal honeycomb grille and touch-sensitive lights added a premium feel. Despite the fastback design, visibility remained strong, with larger rear windows and door-mounted mirrors enhancing the view.

The 2024 Genesis GV80, particularly in the Prestige Signature trim, exuded luxury with its Matterhorn White Matte paint and dark chrome trim. The 22-inch wheels, though stylish, were nearly invisible due to the black paint. The interior was lavish, featuring Ultramarine Blue over Dune with diamond-stitched Nappa leather, a suede headliner, and metallic accents. Ambient lighting and a 3D digital instrument cluster underscored its flagship status. Despite its opulence, the Prestige Signature's exterior was relatively plain, and the wheel design was less visible.

The GV80's interior was undeniably luxurious, with features like a panoramic glass roof and triple-zone climate control. However, the seats, though ventilated and equipped with massage functions, were not as comfortable as expected. The rear captain’s chairs offered limited legroom, and the diamond-stitched surfaces felt like bubble wrap. Cargo space was generous, but the rear center console's height required caution when loading items.

The 2023 Honda HR-V featured a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine producing 158 horsepower and 138 pound-feet of torque, an improvement over the previous model. The CVT included a Step-Shift function to mimic traditional automatic transmission sounds. Drivers could choose from Normal, Snow, ECON, and Sport modes, with each mode adjusting various vehicle dynamics. The HR-V offered both FWD and AWD, with improved suspension and widened tracks enhancing its driving experience. Despite being fun to drive, it lacked the power options available in some competitors.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 offered two engine choices: a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 with 375 horsepower. The 3.5T model, tested, provided robust performance but was less fuel-efficient, achieving 17.2 mpg in real-world conditions. Both engines paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The GV80 excelled in driving dynamics, with swift acceleration and commendable grip from its all-season tires. The adaptive damping suspension and upgraded brakes contributed to its athletic feel, though the steering was unremarkable.

The 2023 Honda HR-V, a subcompact SUV, offered a well-thought-out interior with a center console featuring a shelf for storage. Rear-seat headroom was slightly reduced, but cargo space remained competitive at 24.4 cubic feet with seats up and 55.1 cubic feet with them folded. The HR-V's passenger volume varied slightly across trims, with the EX-L offering a bit more space. The rear seats provided a higher seating position and folded to create a nearly flat floor.

In 2024, the Genesis GV80 3.5T Advanced was the only model with a third-row seat. The Prestige Signature trim, tested, accommodated four people with its captain’s chairs. The GV80's interior featured various leather options and standard amenities like heated front seats and a power liftgate. The test vehicle included a panoramic roof and triple-zone climate control. However, seat comfort was lacking, and rear legroom was limited. Cargo space was ample at 34.9 cubic feet, expanding to 84 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2023 Honda HR-V's infotainment system featured a tablet-style touchscreen with physical controls for power and volume. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with wireless versions available on the EX-L trim. The EX-L also offered a 9-inch display, wireless charging, and an eight-speaker audio system. The HR-V included a 7-inch digital gauge cluster and various connectivity options.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 boasted a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment display, though its placement encouraged use of the control dial. The system included navigation, SiriusXM, and wired smartphone integration. The Prestige Signature added wireless charging in the second row. The GV80's digital key system and Lexicon premium sound system were notable features, with a head-up display providing additional safety information.

The 2023 Honda HR-V came standard with the Honda Sensing suite, including adaptive cruise control, collision-mitigation braking, and lane-keeping assist. New features for 2023 included traffic-sign recognition and traffic jam assist. The HR-V had not yet been crash-tested for 2023, but the previous model received high safety ratings.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 offered advanced safety features like a Blind-Spot View Monitor and Highway Driving Assist. The GV80's collision-avoidance tech was complemented by a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. The GV80's safety systems provided a comprehensive safety net for drivers.