2023 Toyota RAV4 vs 2024 Genesis GV80

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 was available in six trim levels, offering a range of options from the budget-friendly RAV4 LE to the more luxurious RAV4 Limited, with off-road-oriented Adventure and TRD Off-Road trims in between. The Adventure trim, which we tested, featured a distinctive design with a more aggressive grille, blacked-out wheels, and faux skid plates, although it was more about style than substance. Inside, the Adventure trim added orange accents, including a stripe on the seats and contrast stitching, enhancing the otherwise basic interior. The RAV4 provided a rugged, truck-like feel, with options for fabric or synthetic leather seats, and various levels of adjustability and heating features.

In contrast, the 2024 Genesis GV80 exuded luxury, especially in the top-tier Prestige Signature trim we tested. This model featured a Matterhorn White Matte paint job and dark chrome trim, with 22-inch wheels that were nearly invisible due to their black paint. The interior was a showcase of opulence, with Ultramarine Blue over Dune color scheme, diamond-stitched Nappa leather, and a suede headliner. The GV80's cabin was filled with high-end materials and technology, including ambient lighting, a 3D digital instrument cluster, and a wide touchscreen display. While the Prestige Signature trim was undeniably luxurious, some might prefer the regular Prestige model for its more visible wheel design.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 came standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. While the RAV4's acceleration was not particularly thrilling, it was adequate for most driving situations. The Adventure and TRD Off-Road trims came with all-wheel drive as standard, and the RAV4 offered a Snow Mode for added traction. The TRD Off-Road trim featured unique suspension components and all-terrain tires, making it more capable off-road than the Adventure trim.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, and a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 with 375 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. Our test vehicle had the V6, which provided strong performance but was less fuel-efficient, achieving 17.2 mpg in real-world testing. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The GV80 featured five driving modes and could tow up to 6,000 pounds. The 3.5T model included upgraded brakes and adaptive damping suspension, offering a sporty and composed driving experience.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 was designed to seat five passengers, with 37.7 inches of headroom in the front and 39.5 inches in the rear. It offered 41 inches of front legroom and 37.8 inches in the back, providing ample space for most passengers. The RAV4's cargo space measured 37.5 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. The interior featured convenient storage options, including a shelf above the glove compartment and large door pockets.

In 2024, the Genesis GV80 3.5T Advanced was the only model with a third-row seat, while the Prestige Signature trim offered seating for four with second-row captain's chairs. The GV80's interior featured high-quality materials, including leather upholstery and a panoramic glass roof. However, the seats were not as comfortable as expected, with limited legroom in the second row. The GV80 offered 34.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 84 cubic feet with the seats folded. The Prestige Signature's rear center console limited the ease of loading larger items.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 introduced a new infotainment system with an 8.0-inch touchscreen as standard, and a 10.5-inch screen for higher trims. The system supported over-the-air updates, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Our Adventure trim test vehicle featured an upgraded multimedia system with an 11-speaker JBL audio system. A 7-inch driver-information display was standard, with a 12.3-inch version available on select trims.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment display, controlled via a dial on the center console. The system included navigation, SiriusXM, and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The GV80 offered a Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless smartphone charging, and a digital key system. The Prestige and Prestige Signature trims included a head-up display and a Lexicon premium sound system. The GV80's infotainment system was user-friendly, with a pleasing graphical interface and minimal glare.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 came with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The RAV4 was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, which included Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. The RAV4 earned a 2023 Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, with top scores in crash-testing.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 offered advanced safety features, including a Blind-Spot View Monitor, Remote Smart Parking Assist, and Highway Driving Assist. The GV80's Highway Driving Assist worked well in light traffic but was less effective in heavy traffic. The Blind-Spot View Monitor provided a video feed of the blind spots, enhancing safety during lane changes. The GV80 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.