2024 Genesis GV70 vs 2024 BMW X5

The 2024 BMW X5, last redesigned in 2019, maintained a timeless appeal, though the M Sport treatment was not universally appreciated, giving it a station wagon-like appearance. The test vehicle featured optional 21-inch "741M" wheels with staggered-width summer tires, which were considered a worthwhile upgrade despite the potential cost of tire replacement. The X5 offered a range of powertrains, including a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, a turbo-six PHEV powertrain, and a turbocharged V8 engine, with the high-performance X5 M Competition variant. The xDrive50e M Sport model tested came with Brooklyn Grey paint, optional wheels, and all available equipment packages, priced at $88,075. The 2024 model received a light styling refresh and introduced the BMW Curved Display, enhancing the interior's modernity while retaining high-quality materials and construction.

The 2024 Genesis GV70 stood out in the Genesis lineup and its competitive set, featuring signature styling elements like split headlights and a large grille. It was sleeker than the GV80 and avoided the quirkiness of the GV60. Notable details included a hatchback-like rear window profile, large exhaust outlets on the Sport Prestige trim, and distinctive 21-inch wheels. The GV70 balanced SUV size with luxury-car style, surpassing competitors like the Audi Q5 and BMW X3 in finesse. The Electrified GV70 retained the gasoline model's styling, with a shiny grille housing the charge port. The interior was distinctive, with quilted Nappa leather, a panoramic sunroof, and unique design elements like an elliptical pod for controls and a rotary infotainment controller. Genesis aimed for a different approach, making the GV70 memorable.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced new mild-hybrid six-cylinder and V8 engines, with the xDrive50e PHEV receiving a significant upgrade in electric range and power output. It featured a more powerful electric motor integrated into the eight-speed automatic transmission and a 19.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The xDrive50e offered 38 miles of electric-only driving, with a combined fuel economy of 22 mpg. It produced 483 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, accelerating to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. The PHEV was favored for its balance of performance and efficiency, though a Level 2 home charging station was recommended for maximizing electric driving. The adaptive damping air suspension masked the vehicle's weight, and the 21-inch wheels did not compromise ride quality. The X5 excelled in handling, with quick steering and excellent visibility. During testing, it achieved an average fuel economy of 38.8 mpg over 95.5 miles.

The 2024 Genesis GV70 retained its powertrain options, with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 with 375 hp and 391 lb-ft. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The Electrified GV70 featured front and rear electric motors producing 429 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque, with a 77.4 kWh battery pack. Boost Mode provided 483 hp for short bursts. While the GV70 offered strong acceleration, its chassis tuning was less sporty than rivals like the Acura RDX and BMW X3. The suspension was reasonably comfortable but less refined over bumps. The Electrified model maintained similar handling to the gasoline version, with adjustable regenerative braking for one-pedal driving. The GV70 was competent but not sporty, with a 236-mile EPA-rated range for the Electrified model.

The 2024 BMW X5 excelled as a midsize luxury SUV, accommodating five passengers in two rows. The cargo area offered 33.1 cubic feet, expanding to 71.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The split liftgate design provided a seating area but required stretching to access deep cargo. The test vehicle featured Sensafin artificial leather upholstery, which was indistinguishable from genuine leather. Standard sport seats and the Climate Comfort Package added 20-way power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, four-zone climate control, and heated rear seats. Rear passengers enjoyed comfort and a panoramic sunroof. The X5 no longer offered a third-row seat, requiring a step up to the X7 for that feature.

The 2024 Genesis GV70 offered competitive interior space, with slightly less headroom than the Audi Q5, BMW X3, and Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, but more front-seat legroom than the BMW and Mercedes. The GV70's 28.9 cubic feet of cargo space was better than the Mercedes but slightly less than the Audi. Folding the rear seats provided 56.9 cubic feet, less than its German rivals. The Electrified GV70's battery pack minimally impacted interior space, with slight reductions in legroom and headroom. The stylish interior design limited small-item storage, but a dedicated phone storage nook and rear-seat climate controls were included. The Electrified GV70 featured automatic side bolsters for the front seats, enhancing support during spirited driving.

The 2024 BMW X5 featured the BMW Curved Display, combining a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel with a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Running BMW Operating System 8.5, it offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L, connected services, and over-the-air updates. The cloud-based navigation system and Intelligent Personal Assistant were highlights, though the latter struggled with voice recognition accuracy. The optional Harman Kardon sound system impressed, but the Intelligent Personal Assistant's performance was disappointing, with incorrect navigation responses. The head-up display effectively conveyed data, and the augmented video function enhanced navigation, though accurate directions were needed for optimal use.

The 2024 Genesis GV70's infotainment system, derived from Hyundai, was simpler than rivals but user-friendly. It featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Lower trims had an 8-inch digital instrument cluster, while higher grades offered a 12.3-inch unit with a 3D effect. A 12-inch head-up display and a 16-speaker Lexicon audio system were available. The touchscreen's intuitive layout and rotary controller provided ease of use. Genesis included a fingerprint scanner for driver profiles and digital key functionality, allowing a phone to replace the key fob for unlocking and starting the vehicle.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced the Highway Assistant hands-free driving system, requiring activation through the infotainment screen and steering wheel controls. It performed well in dense or light traffic but could be frustrating in moderate traffic. The system occasionally engaged brakes without cause, but adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance worked effectively. The X5 received high ratings from the IIHS, though lower headlight ratings prevented an award. The NHTSA gave it a four-star overall crash-test rating.

The 2024 Genesis GV70 received the IIHS's Top Safety Pick+ award for both gasoline and Electrified models. NHTSA ratings for 2024 were incomplete, but the gasoline model received four-star frontal and rollover ratings, with the 2023 model earning a five-star overall rating. All GV70 models included standard safety features like lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, and Highway Driving Assist. The optional Highway Driving Assist 2 added automated lane-change capability. Genesis offered high-tech safety features like safe exit assist and a radar-based rear occupant alert system.