2022 Genesis GV80

The 2022 GV80 is a perfect flagship for the Genesis SUV lineup. From the moment you open the driver's door, the GV80's interior impresses with lap-of-luxury amenities and finishes, which earns it an Editors' Choice award from us. Aggressive drivers will likely find performance-oriented rivals such as the Audi SQ8 and the Porsche Cayenne more enticing, but the GV80's ride is composed and comfortable. A turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder is standard, but a more powerful twin-turbo 3.5-liter V-6 is available and helped the GV80 snap off a quick 5.3-second run to 60 mph at our test track. If you're looking for a premium SUV that's just as posh as a BMW X5 or a Mercedes-Benz GLE-class, the GV80 is worth a close look, especially because its unique approach to luxury sets it apart from its European rivals.

Engine Performance

This mid-size luxury crossover has the same underpinnings as the G80 sedan and is available with rear- or all-wheel drive. The engine choices start with a 300-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder and escalate to a 375-hp twin-turbo 3.5-liter V-6, the latter of which delivered a brisk 5.3-second 60-mph time at our test track. With the turbo four, the GV80 delivered a slower 6.1-second 60-mph time, but many drivers won't miss the extra power. After driving both versions of the GV80, we can say that the new SUV feels athletic in corners and delivers a quiet ride, but buyers seeking more thrills could consider a Cayenne or an SQ8.

Fuel Economy

The EPA estimates that GV80 models with the four-cylinder engine should deliver 21 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway; going with the V-6 reduces those to 18 mpg and 23 mpg respectively. We haven’t had the chance to put the V-6 version through our 75-mph highway fuel-economy test, but the GV80 with the turbocharged four-cylinder delivered exactly on its promise of 25 mpg highway.

Interior Design

The GV80's interior is nicely finished with burled-wood trim, metal accents, and integrated ambient lighting; a large slim-shaped infotainment display keep things upscale but uncluttered. Despite the fancy materials, the interior design provides a sense of minimalism that feels truly elegant in person. The front seats are comfortable, supportive, and available with a massage function that feels legitimately relaxing. A standard three-across bench seat in the second row allows for up to five passengers; a third row of seats is an optional feature but space back there is limited and should be considered a place solely for kids. We fit 13 carry-on suitcases behind the second row and the GV80 swallowed a total of 28 with the second row folded flat.