Genesis has raised the bar in the luxury SUV segment with its refreshed 2025 GV80, showcasing significant technological advancements while maintaining its reputation for stunning design and exceptional comfort. The mid-cycle update brings compelling improvements to an already impressive vehicle, solidifying its position as a formidable competitor against established German rivals.
The most striking enhancement appears inside the cabin, where a new 27-inch OLED screen dominates the dashboard, seamlessly integrating both the instrument cluster and infotainment system. This technological centerpiece maintains a delicate balance between modern functionality and classic luxury, featuring both touchscreen capability and a rotary controller for intuitive operation. Genesis thoughtfully preserves physical controls for essential functions, demonstrating a practical approach to user interface design.
Luxury permeates every aspect of the interior, with Genesis offering distinctive color combinations that set it apart from competitors. The palette includes sophisticated options such as brown or crème leather paired with pale forest green accents, and a striking blue interior with white seats. These bold choices reflect Genesis’s commitment to differentiation in the luxury market.
The GV80‘s exterior presence remains majestic, characterized by its signature large grille and distinctive double-line lighting elements at both front and rear. These design elements ensure the GV80 stands out in a segment dominated by more conventional European styling. The vehicle’s proportions, slightly longer than the BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE but with a lower roof height, create an elegant, elongated silhouette.
Under the hood, Genesis offers two compelling powertrains. The base 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, delivering adequate performance for daily driving though with a slightly raspy character under heavy acceleration. The more refined choice is the 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6, generating 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque, providing smooth, confident acceleration more befitting a luxury vehicle of this caliber.
The driving experience prioritizes comfort and refinement over sporting pretensions. All models feature an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The adaptive suspension system, which uses forward-looking cameras to prepare for road imperfections, particularly impresses in the 3.5T model, delivering exceptional ride quality without sacrificing body control.
Practicality remains a strong suit, with generous headroom in the first two rows despite the lower roofline. The third row, exclusively available in the Advance trim, offers adequate legroom but limited headroom and accessibility, making it better suited for occasional use. Cargo capacity in five-passenger configurations measures 36.5 cubic feet, though this shrinks considerably with the third row in use.
Genesis continues to lead in technology integration, offering complimentary Connected Services for the vehicle’s lifetime to the first owner. This includes WiFi hotspot capability, remote access features, and post-crash assistance. The comprehensive safety suite includes advanced driver assistance systems, with features like AI-based adaptive cruise control that learns driver preferences and intersection collision avoidance.
Pricing starts at $59,050 for the base 2.5T Standard model, while the range-topping 3.5T Prestige commands $80,650. While these figures represent an increase from the model’s initial launch pricing, they remain competitive within the segment, especially considering the level of standard equipment and build quality.
The 2025 GV80 has earned impressive safety credentials, securing the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation for the previous model year. Standard safety features include forward collision warning with pedestrian detection and intersection assistance, lane-keeping systems, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic avoidance.
This refresh demonstrates Genesis’s commitment to continuous improvement and innovation in the luxury SUV segment. While it may not match the sporting character of some European rivals, the 2025 GV80 excels in its chosen role as a refined, technologically advanced luxury vehicle that prioritizes comfort and elegance. For buyers seeking a distinctive alternative to established luxury brands, the GV80 presents a compelling proposition that combines visual drama with genuine substance.
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