2024 Genesis GV80 vs 2023 Volvo XC90

The 2023 Volvo XC90 marked a significant departure from the brand's past design ethos, which was often likened to utilitarian appliances. This model showcased a purposeful yet understated aesthetic, with a stout front end and an assertive grille that avoided being ostentatious. The signature "Thor’s Hammer" headlights added a modern touch, distinguishing it from the boxy Volvos of the past. The XC90's rectilinear dimensions were complemented by 21-inch wheels and a sophisticated Platinum Gray paint with subtle brown undertones. Inside, the XC90 exuded elegance with its two-tone leather steering wheel, metal Bowers and Wilkins speaker covers, and luxurious Nappa leather upholstery. The minimalist interior design was enhanced by wood deco inlays, creating a serene and refined atmosphere.

In contrast, the 2024 Genesis GV80, particularly in the Prestige Signature trim, exuded luxury with its Matterhorn White Matte paint and dark chrome trim. The exterior, while stylish, was somewhat understated due to the black-painted 22-inch wheels. Inside, the GV80's Ultramarine Blue over Dune interior was opulent, featuring diamond-stitched Nappa leather, a suede headliner, and metallic accents. The cabin was equipped with ambient lighting, a 3D digital instrument cluster, and a wide touchscreen display, reinforcing its status as a flagship luxury SUV. Despite its luxurious appointments, the GV80's exterior design was less striking than its interior, and the Prestige Signature trim's limited seating capacity was a drawback for those needing more passenger space.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 introduced new B5 and B6 engines, both featuring mild-hybrid technology. The B5 engine, with a turbocharger and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, produced 247 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The B6 powertrain, similar to the previous T6, combined a supercharger and turbocharger to deliver 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. While the mild-hybrid system didn't allow for electric-only driving, it improved fuel efficiency slightly and enhanced the smoothness of the driving experience. The XC90's eight-speed automatic transmission provided seamless shifts, and its handling was surprisingly agile for its size, with minimal body roll. The vehicle's brakes were responsive, and the cabin remained quiet, thanks to effective insulation.

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. The 3.5T engine delivered robust performance but was less fuel-efficient, achieving 17.2 mpg during testing. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard 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 an adaptive damping suspension, providing a sporty and engaging driving experience. However, the steering was unremarkable, and seat comfort was an issue on long trips.

The 2023 Volvo XC90's interior was characterized by Scandinavian minimalism, which, while aesthetically pleasing, resulted in limited storage space. The front seats were comfortable, but the lack of dedicated storage for small items, such as cell phones, was a drawback. The second row offered reasonable comfort, but accessing the third row was challenging, especially with the standard seven-passenger configuration. The XC90 provided 12.5 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats in use, expanding to 65.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Despite its smaller size compared to other three-row SUVs, the XC90's driving dynamics were commendable.

In the 2024 Genesis GV80, only the 3.5T Advanced trim offered a third-row seat, while the Prestige Signature trim limited seating to four passengers. The interior featured high-quality materials, including premium leather and a panoramic glass roof. However, the seats were not as comfortable as expected, with the diamond-stitched surfaces feeling firm. 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 cargo loading, but overall, the GV80 provided ample storage space.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 featured a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment display running Google OS, the first of its kind in a standard infotainment system. The system integrated Google Maps, Spotify, and Google Assistant, offering natural-language recognition for seamless interaction. However, the reliance on the touchscreen for many functions could be frustrating, as physical buttons were limited. Despite this, the system's capabilities were impressive, and the integration with Google Home devices added convenience.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 came equipped with a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment display, complemented by a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel in the Prestige trims. The infotainment system included navigation, SiriusXM, and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A Wi-Fi hotspot was introduced in 2024, and wireless smartphone charging was standard. The GV80's voice-recognition system was user-friendly, and the digital key system allowed smartphone access. The Prestige trims featured a head-up display, enhancing safety by displaying blind-spot warnings.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 continued Volvo's legacy of safety, earning a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and Pilot Assist technology, which maintained distance and lane position at various speeds. These features contributed to the XC90's reputation as one of the safest vehicles on the road.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 was equipped with advanced driving-assistance systems, including a Blind-Spot View Monitor, Remote Smart Parking Assist, and Highway Driving Assist. The Blind-Spot View Monitor provided video feeds of 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, although the frontal-impact test received four stars for driver and passenger positions.