2024 Genesis GV80 vs 2023 Volvo XC60

The 2023 Volvo XC60 presented a sophisticated and stylish exterior, with its test model arriving in the Recharge spec with the Ultimate package and a Dark exterior theme. The Thunder Grey paint and blacked-out trim on 20-inch wheels enhanced its visual appeal. Inside, the XC60 exuded Scandinavian minimalism, with black leather seats complemented by wood trim, metal accents, and ambient lighting. The panoramic sunroof and Orrefors crystal gear selector knob added a touch of opulence, making the cabin a pleasant place to spend time.

In contrast, the 2024 Genesis GV80, particularly in the Prestige Signature trim, offered a luxurious yet understated exterior with its Matterhorn White Matte paint and dark chrome trim. The 22-inch wheels, though stylish, were somewhat obscured by the black paint. Inside, the GV80's Ultramarine Blue over Dune interior was lavish, featuring diamond-stitched Nappa leather, a suede headliner, and metallic accents. Despite its luxury, the seating comfort was questionable, with the diamond-stitched surfaces feeling like bubble wrap, leading to discomfort on long drives.

The 2023 Volvo XC60 Recharge combined a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, delivering a total of 455 horsepower and 423 pound-feet of torque. This setup allowed for an impressive 0-60 mph time of 4.5 seconds. The XC60 offered multiple driving modes, including Hybrid, Power, and Pure, with the latter providing up to 35 miles of electric-only driving. The XC60 excelled in fuel efficiency, averaging 54.6 mpg over a 65-mile evaluation route, and offered a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 3.5T featured a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. While it offered robust performance, it was less fuel-efficient, achieving 17.2 mpg during testing. The GV80's driving experience was rewarding, with swift acceleration and commendable grip from its all-season tires. It featured five driving modes and a towing capacity of up to 6,000 pounds. The adaptive damping suspension and upgraded brakes enhanced its athleticism, though the steering was unremarkable.

The 2023 Volvo XC60, as a compact crossover SUV, was best suited for four passengers, though it could accommodate five if needed. The front seats, wrapped in Nappa leather, offered exceptional comfort with heating, ventilation, and power cushion extensions. The rear seats, while comfortable, had limited legroom. The XC60 provided 25.8 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 63.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Practical storage solutions included door panel bins and a glovebox, though the center console bin was small.

The 2024 Genesis GV80, particularly in the Prestige Signature trim, seated only four due to its second-row captain's chairs. The interior featured premium materials, but the seating comfort was lacking, especially on long trips. The GV80 offered 34.9 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 84 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. However, the rear center console's height required caution when loading items. The cabin's storage space was commendable, with features like a panoramic glass roof and triple-zone climate control enhancing comfort.

The 2023 Volvo XC60 came equipped with a 12-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 9-inch Google Built-in infotainment system. The system offered access to Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play, with support for Apple CarPlay. The voice-recognition system was impressive, though it occasionally required specific phrasing. The optional Bowers & Wilkins sound system delivered exceptional audio quality, though the standard Harman Kardon system was likely sufficient for most users.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment display, though its distance from the driver necessitated using the center console's control dial. The system included navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio, and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The GV80 also offered a digital key system and a head-up display, with most trims featuring a Lexicon premium sound system. The voice-recognition system was user-friendly, and the infotainment display was graphically pleasing and intuitive.

The 2023 Volvo XC60 was synonymous with safety, featuring Pilot Assist, which combined adaptive cruise control with lane-centering capability. The system excelled on multi-lane freeways, providing smooth and accurate performance. Oncoming Lane Mitigation helped avoid collisions with oncoming vehicles. While the XC60 Recharge had not been crash-tested by the NHTSA, the B5 and B6 models received top marks. The IIHS awarded the XC60 a Top Safety Pick+ rating for 2022, with the possibility of carrying it forward to 2023.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 offered numerous advanced driving-assistance systems, including Highway Driving Assist and a Blind-Spot View Monitor. Highway Driving Assist worked well in light or dense traffic but was less desirable in moderate to heavy traffic. The Blind-Spot View Monitor provided a video feed of the blind spots, enhancing safety during lane changes. The GV80 also featured Remote Smart Parking Assist, allowing the SUV to park itself. The IIHS awarded the GV80 a Top Safety Pick+ rating, while the NHTSA gave it a five-star overall rating.