2024 Genesis GV80 vs 2023 Honda Pilot

The 2023 Honda Pilot underwent a complete redesign, presenting a more rugged and substantial appearance. Its upright grille and boxier styling not only made it look larger but also contributed to its actual increase in size, being 3.4 inches longer, up to 1.5 inches wider, and 0.8 inches taller than its predecessor. These changes complemented the all-terrain-capable TrailSport model, which featured legitimate off-road enhancements such as a one-inch taller ride height, unique 18-inch wheels, chunky all-terrain tires, and underbody skid plates. The interior took a more conventional styling route, maintaining attractiveness while enhancing functionality and versatility. The materials quality met class expectations, and the overall design emphasized function over form without sacrificing appeal.

In contrast, the 2024 Genesis GV80 offered a luxurious and sophisticated design, particularly in the Prestige Signature trim. The exterior, available in exclusive colors like Vik Black and Mauna Red, featured dark chrome trim and stylish 22-inch wheels. However, the wheel design was somewhat obscured by the black paint. Inside, the GV80 exuded luxury with its Ultramarine Blue over Dune interior, diamond-stitched Nappa leather, and matte-finish wood trim. The ambient lighting, 3D digital instrument cluster, and wide touchscreen display underscored its flagship status. Despite its opulence, the GV80's Prestige Signature trim was not necessarily more attractive than the regular Prestige model, and the exterior design was relatively plain compared to its lavish interior.

The 2023 Honda Pilot was equipped with a new 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 285 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on all models and standard on the Elite and TrailSport trims. The Pilot offered quick initial acceleration and a pleasant engine hum when pushed. It was tuned for comfort rather than performance, with light steering effort and noticeable body roll in corners. The TrailSport model added an inch of ground clearance and all-terrain tires, enhancing its off-road capabilities without sacrificing on-road comfort.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, and a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 producing 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The GV80 provided a rewarding driving experience, with swift acceleration and a sporty feel. It featured an adaptive damping suspension and upgraded front brakes, contributing to its athletic performance. The GV80's steering was unremarkable but did not detract from the overall driving experience. The SUV was capable of towing up to 6,000 pounds and offered 8.1 inches of ground clearance.

The 2023 Honda Pilot's interior was more conventional compared to other new Honda models, offering a handy dash shelf for the front passenger. The entry-level trims featured a seven-inch infotainment touchscreen, while higher trims upgraded to a nine-inch display. The Elite trim's touchscreen seemed small for the available space but was adequate. The Pilot offered plenty of clever storage solutions, including a stowable second-row center seat that provided a useful pass-through for third-row passengers. The second row offered ample space for adults, while the third row was less inviting but suitable for short trips. Cargo capacity was impressive, with up to 114.3 cubic feet available with the second row folded flat.

In the 2024 Genesis GV80, only the 3.5T Advanced trim offered a third-row seat, while the Prestige Signature trim featured second-row captain's chairs, reducing passenger capacity to four. The GV80's interior was luxurious, with features like a panoramic glass roof, triple-zone climate control, and ventilated front seats with massage programs. However, the seats were not as comfortable as expected, and the rear seats offered limited legroom. Cargo space measured 34.9 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 84 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The Prestige Signature's rear center console required careful loading of cargo.

The 2023 Honda Pilot offered a range of technological features, with the EX-L trim and higher providing a larger infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless phone charger. Higher trims included a multi-view camera system, head-up display, and a fully digital instrument panel. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with quick responses and a logical layout. Additional features included Honda's CabinTalk, a navigation system, Bose premium audio, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment display, with a control dial on the center console for ease of use. The standard infotainment package included a navigation system, SiriusXM satellite radio, and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The GV80 also offered a digital key system, a Lexicon premium sound system, and a head-up display. The voice-recognition system was easy to use, and the infotainment display was graphically pleasing and intuitive.

The 2023 Honda Pilot came with standard Honda Sensing safety features, including forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Pilot received a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, and Honda expected top scores from the NHTSA. Higher trims added low-speed automatic braking and parking sensors, while the TrailSport and Elite included surround-view and multi-view camera systems.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 offered advanced driving-assistance systems, such as a Blind-Spot View Monitor, Remote Smart Parking Assist, and Highway Driving Assist. The GV80 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. The Blind-Spot View Monitor and Remote Smart Parking Assist provided additional safety and convenience features.