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Genesis ups the ante with its flagship SUV, giving the GV80 some styling changes and a big update to the interior.
“The 2025 GV80 brings a new level of elevated cabin experience to the Genesis SUV lineup, making all occupants feel like honored guests,” says Eric Marshall, director of Genesis Motors Canada, in a media release. “Its new 27-inch widescreen display and array of new interior colors, materials, and finishes introduce an even greater sense of elegance to GV80.”
The grille now features a polished frame going all the way around, and the corners of the crest shape have also been softened together, giving off a more premium vibe. The signature Two-Line LED headlights retain a similar silhouette as before but house Micro Lens Array technology, comprised of several small lenses, borrowed from the G90 sedan, creating a distinct look.
Designers swapped out the formerly understated front bumper for a sportier unit that is reminiscent of the Mercedes-Benz GLE Class. Large center and side mesh-covered air intakes sit above a shiny decorative skid plate. Around the other end, a couple strips of mesh and V-shaped chrome trip are added to the lower portion, concealing the dual muffler tips, which tie everything together. A pair of fresh 20 and 22-inch wheel options is offered as well.
Interiors are where the brand has always possessed a wow factor, and this continues in the latest model. The long, combined instrument cluster and infotainment display first seen in the Hyundai Ioniq lineup of vehicles is implemented in the GV80, here as a gorgeous 27-inch example. The touch-based climate control panel below works well enough, and it’s nice that a few physical knobs still remain.
When I drove the SUV shortly after the initial release a few months back, I was surprised at the lack of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. However, an over-the-air (or dealer) update later became available. The quilted Nappa leather seating surfaces are top notch, and our press loaner had unique light-colored wood trim resembling a vintage signboard. The cabin fits up to seven passengers—albeit a bit tight for adults in the third row—and lots of cargo space. About 1,000 liters with the rear bench folded down.
As before, there are two packaged powertrains: a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine on the Advanced and Advanced Tech grades, and the silky-smooth 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine on the Prestige, making a healthy 375 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque, mated to an
eight-speed automatic transmission. The mid-size crossover is quiet on the road, and the multi-link suspension keeps the ride composed and even dare-I-say sporty in the corners.
Buyers in the market for a slightly sleeker form factor and a bit of extra go can check out the GV80 Coupe, launched just last year. The variant boasts a steeply sloping rear roof, window spoiler, liftgate ducktail lip, quad exhaust outlets, and an optional 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 with a 48-volt electric supercharger. In addition, an electric version based on the next-generation eM platform that will also underpin the upcoming all-new zero-emissions GV90 is rumored to debut next year.
Highlights:
MSRP: $95,500 (base)
Motor: 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6
Horsepower: 375 @ 5,800 rpm
Torque (lb-ft): 391 @ 1,300 rpm
Gearbox: eight-speed automatic
Layout: front-engine, all-wheel drive
Fuel economy: 17.7 L/100 km mixed city/highway (observed)
