2024 Honda Prologue vs 2024 Genesis GV80

In the past, the 2024 Genesis GV80 offered buyers a choice between the 2.5T and 3.5T models, with trim levels including Standard, Advanced, Prestige, and Prestige Signature. Prices ranged from $57,700 to $81,750, along with a $1,350 destination charge. The GV80 3.5T in Prestige Signature trim, featuring an optional Matterhorn White Matte paint job, reached an MSRP of $84,600.

The Prestige Signature model choices included Vik Black, Matterhorn White Matte, and exclusive Mauna Red, paired with dark chrome trim and stylish 22-inch wheels. However, the appeal of the Prestige Signature version didn't necessarily outweigh that of the base Prestige model, as the wheel design wasn’t particularly visible. The Ultramarine Blue over Dune interior was a highlight, with diamond-stitched Nappa leather, artificial leather dashboard wrap, matte-finish wood trim, suede headliner, and metallic accents, all exuding luxury. Ambient lighting, a 3D digital instrument cluster, and a wide touchscreen infotainment system emphasized the GV80’s luxury status. Overall, the GV80 Prestige Signature exuded luxury, but the regular Prestige trim provided a more visually appealing balance.

The 2024 Honda Prologue, on the other hand, had a more subtle design, with the EX trim available in five colors and Touring and Elite trims adding Sonic Grey and North Shore Pearl. The punchy turquoise North Shore Pearl was perhaps the most noticeable design element. The EV design included a smooth black front panel with a centered Honda logo, suggesting nothing required air cooling behind it. Personalization options included accessories like skid plates and side cladding.

The Prologue’s lengthened dimensions, being 3 inches longer but 8 inches shorter than the Passport, gave it a low appearance. Wheel sizes ranged from 19 inches standard to 21 inches on the Elite trim. The interior, particularly in the Elite trim with its brown and black color scheme, felt welcoming. The dash layout mirrored other revamped Honda models but featured piano black plastic instead of hidden air vents. The spacious, familiar interior ensured comfort without sacrificing an upscale feel.

The Genesis GV80 2.5T featured a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. Our 3.5T test vehicle boasted a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, achieving 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. While this powertrain offered satisfying performance, it consumed more fuel, with an EPA-rated 20 mpg in combined driving, though our test showed 17.2 mpg.

Both engines paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and a standard AWD system, supporting five different drive modes: Eco, Comfort, Sport, Custom, and Snow. With 8.1 inches of ground clearance and a towing capacity of up to 6,000 pounds, the GV80 3.5T proved unexpectedly athletic, swift in acceleration, and comfortable on long drives despite some seat discomfort. The larger front brakes and adaptive damping suspension reinforced its driving dynamics, though the steering was unremarkable.

The Honda Prologue offered FWD and AWD options. The FWD version, available on EX and Touring trims, provided 212 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque, and was rated for 296 miles of range with 19-inch wheels. The AWD system, standard on the Elite trim, combined dual motors for 288 hp and 333 lb-ft, with a 273-mile range on 21-inch wheels. The Prologue excelled with a best-in-class 296-mile base range, although competitors had longer-range versions.

Honda’s emphasis on familiar driving dynamics resulted in the Prologue feeling traditional yet advanced. It featured various regenerative braking settings and a one-pedal drive option. The 121.8-inch wheelbase ensured a comfortable ride, and Sport mode enhanced the driving experience on winding roads. The Prologue’s driving dynamics defied its size and powertrain setup, providing a balanced and engaging experience.

For 2024, the Genesis GV80 3.5T Advanced was the only model with a third-row seat. The Prestige Signature, which seated only four due to power-adjustable captain’s chairs, necessitated leaving the vehicle behind for family trips. Equipped with real or premium leather, heated front seats, and a panoramic glass roof, our test vehicle was packed with features. However, the diamond-stitched seats felt uncomfortable on long trips, and the rear seats lacked significant legroom. Despite limited passenger capacity, the GV80 offered commendable cargo space, with 34.9 cubic feet behind the second row and up to 84 cubic feet with seats folded, though caution was needed with the rear center console.

The Honda Prologue featured traditional door handles, easing the transition to EVs. With a total passenger volume of 111.7 cubic feet, it boasted more legroom than the Cadillac Lyriq. Heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a spacious center console were standard. The Elite trim added seat ventilation and a heated steering wheel. The Prologue’s cargo space, at 25.2 cubic feet, expanded to 57.7 cubic feet with back seats folded, although a deep compartment below the load floor offered additional storage. Unlike the GV80, the Prologue’s hatch area required a longer reach, potentially challenging for shorter individuals.

In the 2024 Genesis GV80, traditional analog gauges were on their way out, replaced by a 12.3-inch digital display in higher trims. The 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment display, while far away, could be operated via a center console dial. Standard features included navigation, SiriusXM, wired Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Wireless charging and a Wi-Fi hotspot were also included. The Prestige Signature trim featured additional rear cabin wireless charging and a head-up display (HUD). The digital key system allowed smartphone access and start, with most trims featuring a Lexicon premium sound system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with intuitive controls and minimal glare.

The Honda Prologue came with standard keyless access, with the Elite trim offering a card-format key. Equipped with a pocket-style wireless charger and multiple USB-C ports, the Prologue supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto via an 11.3-inch screen. A configurable 11-inch digital driver-information display and optional HUD were also available. Google Built-In technology included Google Maps with route planning and battery preconditioning. Touring and Elite trims featured a 12-speaker Bose premium audio system with Active Sound Control, enhancing the driving experience with artificial sound effects.

The Genesis GV80 included numerous advanced driving-assistance systems (ADAS) and safety features, such as a camera-based Blind-Spot View Monitor, Remote Smart Parking Assist, and Highway Driving Assist. These features enhanced safety and convenience, although Highway Driving Assist performed best in lighter traffic. The Blind-Spot View Monitor provided a video feed within the digital instrument panel, while the Remote Smart Parking Assist allowed autonomous parking. The GV80 earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The Honda Prologue featured the Honda Sensing suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies, with new additions like rear cross-traffic braking and blind-zone steering assist. Front-park assist, surround-vision, and rear pedestrian alert were exclusive to higher trims. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. While the Prologue hadn’t been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA yet, Honda aimed for top safety ratings.