2025 Genesis GV80 test drive review

We would like to go on record with a pretty bold statement for a car reviewer to make: We have yet to drive a Genesis I didn’t like. Whatever this brand is doing, it’s doing it right.

Genesis has flown under the radar for the past few years as the name continues to gain recognition, but we’re worried that the secret might soon leak out about what a bargain these vehicles are compared to other more established brands in the luxury sphere.

As much as we wish Genesis all the luck and success it deserves, there’s a part of us that doesn’t want other people to know about it lest they drive up demand — and the prices by extension. But it would be incredibly unfair not to sing the praises of the 2025 Genesis GV80.

Photo credit: Genesis

It’s a gorgeous, luxury, midsize SUV that absolutely deserves all the props and recognition it can get. We were lucky enough to test drive the top-tier 3.5T Prestige trim, which comes loaded with all the luxuries and fineries you could ask for.

The TLDR take is this: We loved it and wish we owned one. There, we said it. But if you need more details, here’s what we can tell you about our weeklong love affair with the GV80.

Shop 2025 Genesis GV80 listing on KSL Cars

First impression: Genesis GV80 is a stunner

It may sound shallow, but one of our favorite things about Genesis vehicles is the way they look. You know with just one glance that the GV80 is no ordinary car. It immediately commands both attention and respect with its combo of subtle curves and bold exterior design elements that communicate an air of opulence, without being too full of itself.

It’s nice enough to earn a few double takes from your neighbors, but not so flashy that they’ll be raising their eyebrows, wondering if you’ve recently started running a drug ring to fund your new ride. The perfect balance!

Photo credit: Genesis

Beautiful fit and finish

Step inside and things get even better. Our range topping 3.5T Prestige tester came with Nappa leather upholstered seats, a matte finish wood trim and a microfiber suede headliner, which translated to a the kind of beautifully serene and inviting interior that makes you want to linger in the seats, long after you’ve killed the engine. 

Prepare to be spoiled

As a bonus, the Genesis GV80 Prestige doesn’t just look good, it feels good. Comfort was an obvious priority in its design, because you’re treated to power-adjustable heated and ventilated front and rear seats, a heated steering wheel and a heated front center console armrest (trust us, it makes a difference).

Then there’s something called a Mood Curator which allows you to customize the lighting, sounds and even the fragrance of the cabin to match whatever suits your preference at the time. Oh, and the seats will treat you to a nice massage, too, just in case you weren’t being pampered enough.

Photo credit: Genesis

Impressive tech

Once you settle into those cushiony seats, your eyes will immediately be drawn toward the massive 27-inch OLED center touch screen, which displays crisp, modern graphics and comes equipped with all the latest must-haves: Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, navigation, tri-zone climate control, a Bang & Olufsen audio system, wireless charging and more. 

In terms of driving conveniences, the GV80 3.5T Prestige has your back — and your front, side and everything else. A surround view camera system, with pristine 360-degree images, gives you complete confidence in tight parking situations. 

A sharp head-up display helps you keep your eyes on the road while effortlessly gauging your speed. And, if your backseat occupants happen to be obstructing your view in the back, no worries. A digital rearview mirror lets you know exactly what you’re missing behind you.

Optional third-row seating

Speaking of the rear seat, it’s worth mentioning that there’s an available third row on certain trims if you need to accommodate a couple more passengers in a pinch. But, you’ll want to save this spot for your smaller passengers, because it’s a bit on the cozy side. Note: The Prestige trim does not come with the option of a third row.

Shop 2025 Genesis GV80 models 

Photo credit: Genesis

Second impression: We could drive this all day 

Now to the really important stuff: How does the 2025 Genesis GV80 Prestige drive? As smooth as glass. It’s a good sign when you can feel the difference the instant you step on the gas pedal.

The GV80 glided like an Olympic figure skater around the neighborhood on daily errands, and it switched to an athletic speed skater the moment we took it on the freeway. You get the sense that this thing really enjoys being pushed so it can show you what it can do. Simply put, it was a complete pleasure to drive.

Responsive, capable engine and drivetrain

When considering your options for the Genesis GV80, you have two engine choices. First, there’s the standard turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder, which produces 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque.

Second, you can bump up to the larger turbocharged 3.5-liter V6, with horsepower up to 375 and torque to 391 pound-feet. As the top trim in the lineup, our Prestige trim came equipped with the latter.

Some critics complain that it’s not as fast off the line as some of the competition, but we found it to be more than responsive enough to meet our needs. After all, our drag racing days are long behind us.

All-wheel drive and an 8-speed automatic transmission come standard, adding extra confidence, especially in inclement weather — a definite bonus for navigating Utah's unpredictable winters.

Photo credit: Genesis

Now about that fuel economy in the GV80

Let’s be honest, not every aspect of the GV80 is perfect, and its fuel economy falls short of impressive. The 4-cylinder version manages an estimated 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway, while the V6 sees a dip to 16/22 mpg. So yeah, it’s not the most fuel-efficient choice.

However, the vehicle’s standout qualities more than make up for this shortcoming. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide if fuel efficiency is a dealbreaker or if the GV80’s other strengths outweigh this drawback.

Shop 2025 Genesis GV80 

Genesis G80 is a surprisingly affordable luxury midsize SUV 

One of the Genesis GV80’s biggest selling points is its relative affordability compared to rivals. Though we had the priciest 3.5T Prestige trim (with a starting MSRP of $79,800), you certainly don’t need to swing that high if your budget won’t allow it. The base Standard trim starts at just $58,200, and it still comes with plenty of desirable features to make it worth a look. 

Here’s a quick breakdown of the trims and some standard features that come with each of them:

• Genesis GV80 2.5T AWD Standard: $58,200 See listings

27-inch touch screen

Fingerprint authentication

Leatherette upholstery

• Genesis GV80 2.5T AWD Select: $62,100 See listings

20-inch alloy wheels

Heated front seats

Panoramic sunroof

• Genesis GV80 2.5T AWD Advanced: $66,100 See listings

Leather upholstery

Heated and ventilated front seats

Remote smart park assist

• Genesis GV80 2.5T AWD Prestige: $70,950 See listings

22-inch alloy wheels

Heated second row

Tri-zone automatic climate control

• Genesis GV80 3.5T AWD Advanced: $74,300 See listings

Power-folding third row

Power-folding exterior mirrors

• Genesis GV80 3.5T AWD Prestige: $79,800 See listings

Nappa leather upholstery

Heated and ventilated second-row seats

Heated center console armrest 

Shop 2025 Genesis GV80 

Final impression: You won’t be disappointed with the 2025 Genesis GV80

If you're seeking the sportiest, most high-performance vehicle on the market, or if brand prestige is your top priority, the Genesis GV80 might not be the perfect match — and that's perfectly fine. 

However, if you're open to a fresh perspective and can appreciate the GV80 for what it brings to the table, we’re confident you’ll be impressed. In fact, you might even find yourself pleasantly surprised. The GV80 stands out as an attractive, well-rounded luxury midsize SUV, and we’re excited to see how the brand continues to evolve and thrive in the years ahead.

Shop the 2025 Genesis GV80 on KSL Cars