The Genesis GV80 debuted four years ago as the first sport utility vehicle offered by Hyundai’s luxury brand. It was a near-instant success, earning accolades from safety watchdog organizations and engineering firms alike. Long-tenured rivals from Acura, BMW, Lexus, Lincoln and Mercedes-Benz suddenly had valid competition from a carmaker without dealerships; its vehicles sold at Hyundai locations. And some potential buyers may have still thought the Genesis was the top-line executive offering from Hyundai, which it was until 2016.
The same issue remains for Genesis. It emerged from Hyundai in 2016 with the EQ900, the start of what was then a small lineup in the United States. It’s small no more. In August, Genesis announced the opening of 21 new dealerships in various states, including an increase in Florida to 34 dealerships. It’s one reason onlookers may notice the 2025 GV80, a mid-sized luxury SUV, and still ask “Who makes the Genesis? I’ve never seen one before.”
It shouldn’t be that way. The updated luxury people mover has several changes in its 2025 trims that take a vehicle already offering a smooth, quiet ride, a top-line interior and superior technology and do it all better.
The 2025 Genesis GV80 is available with two engines, the 2.5T and the reviewed 3.5T; the latter is powered by a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6. Genesis GV80 buyers aren’t likely too concerned about gas mileage, but it’s underwhelming and it may be the vehicle’s only downfall. All-wheel drive is standard, as is an eight-speed automatic transmission on both powertrains.
Standard equipment includes 19-inch wheels, LED headlights, a full suite of driver-assistance features, a hands-free power liftgate, five-passenger seating and heated eight-way power front seats. Leatherette upholstery, a power tilt and telescoping steering wheel, four USB-C ports, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and a new 27-inch infotainment digital cluster screen provide additional Genesis prowess.
The 3.5T Prestige adds further luxury through an electronic limited-slip differential, Nappa leather seating, ventilated second-row seats and three-zone climate control for extra versatility of comfort. Power rear side sunshades, power-soft-closing doors and active noise canceling vault the Genesis into a grand challenger for any of its well-heeled colleagues. The 3.5T V6 Advance trim is the only offering with a third row, though with options it pushes the price to more than $80,000.
Sport utility vehicles once were utility oriented. But the segment, now the largest in the industry, has adapted more toward executive vehicles. Top-line leather seats to inlaid wood and ambient lighting to small refrigerators in a box on wheels. Who knew?
Genesis didn’t forget the SUV legacy, though. For hauling stuff, the GV80’s cargo area is spacious and accessible. The second row has a 40/20/40-split configuration and can fold flat via a push of a button. The third-row seats available in V6 models have the same system.
Like other three-row SUVs, the Genesis approach is best reserved for petite adults and children. The area is comfortable, and the compact space is improved with its hip-height seat placement. Large windows and a surround-view camera system add to the third row’s appeal despite the tight quarters.
What’s a Genesis and who makes it? The manufacturer now has nine vehicles in its lineup, four sedans and five SUVs including the electrified G80 sedan and GV70 SUV. The GV80, like its stablemates, just needs to be seen more — because it’s worth being seen.
Facts & figures
Acceleration: 0-60 mph, 5.7 seconds
Airbags: 10
Gas mileage: 16 mpg city; 22 mpg hwy
Horsepower: 375
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $75,150
Price as tested: $80,650
Manufacturer’s website: genesis.com
Warranty: Bumper-to-bumper, 5 years/60,000 miles; Powertrain, 10 years, 100,000 miles; Corrosion, 5 years/unlimited miles; Roadside Assistance, 5 years/unlimited miles; Replacement Accessories, 3 years/36,000 miles
