2023 Genesis GV80 vs 2022 Hyundai Tucson

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson was built on a new platform, offering a long-wheelbase model in the U.S. with two rows of seating and an expanded cargo area. Its front design featured a parametric grille that cleverly concealed LED daytime running lights, Bi-LED headlights, and LED front turn signals, creating a distinctive shape reminiscent of the Aztec Spirit Bird. The side profile borrowed design elements from the Hyundai Elantra, with a silver D-pillar that gave the Tucson a unique floating roof appearance. At the rear, the Tucson sported toothy taillights illuminated by LEDs, except in the base model, helping it stand out among compact SUVs. The Tucson rode on either 17- or 19-inch wheels, depending on the trim, with high-end models featuring premium fascias, skid plates, and a panoramic sunroof. The interior was well-appointed, with stain- and odor-resistant cloth seats, and a dashboard with horizontal lines and an uncluttered aesthetic, providing a sense of spaciousness.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 exuded sophistication with its quad-lamp headlights and bold grille, presenting a stately midsize SUV measuring over 16 feet in length. Standard 19-inch wheels were available, but the Prestige trim boasted 22-inch alloy wheels. The quad lamp design was mirrored in the rear taillamps above the dual exhaust, and the hands-free liftgate maintained a boxy elegance. Inside, the dark green quilted leather seats complemented the dash, which featured thin horizontal air vents, metal, and matte wood trim. The center console was highlighted by three large dials for infotainment, transmission, and drive modes, while the two-spoke steering wheel added a unique touch. The 14.5-inch infotainment screen, though slightly awkwardly placed, was part of a spacious and luxurious interior, making it a pleasant environment for occupants.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson offered two powertrain options: a 2.5-liter direct-injected four-cylinder engine and a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine. The ICE engine produced 187 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. While not particularly thrilling, it was competent and efficient, targeting 28 mpg combined. The hybrid powertrain, however, was the standout, delivering 226 total system horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, making it more powerful than competitors like the Ford Escape Hybrid and Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. The Tucson Hybrid achieved impressive fuel efficiency, with 37 mpg combined, and offered standard AWD. The forthcoming plug-in hybrid variant promised even more power, with an estimated 261 horsepower and 224 pound-feet of torque, and an anticipated electric range of around 25 miles.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 came exclusively with AWD and offered two engine choices: a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, and a turbo 3.5-liter V6 delivering 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. While not particularly agile or quick, the GV80 excelled in highway driving, with smooth power delivery and an electronically controlled suspension that adjusted to road conditions. The active noise cancellation further enhanced the driving experience, making it a comfortable and quiet ride.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson, a budget-friendly compact SUV, offered a surprisingly upscale interior, rivaling competitors like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. It featured a six-way power-adjustable driver's seat, with an eight-way version available on higher trims, along with lumbar support. Heated and ventilated front seats, memory settings, and an eight-way power-adjustable passenger seat were also available. The spacious cabin provided ample room for passengers and cargo, with more passenger volume than the CR-V, RAV4, and Escape. The rear seats offered generous legroom, and the 74.8 cubic-foot cargo area was comparable to rivals. A 60-40 split-folding bench seat and dual-level cargo floor added versatility, while a hands-free liftgate was available on mid-grade models.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 compensated for its lack of driving excitement with luxurious features and ample space. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were standard, with ventilated front and rear seats available. The Ergo Motion driver's seat offered fatigue-reducing features, and the Nappa leather seats added a touch of opulence. While a third row was optional, it was best suited for children due to limited legroom. The GV80 boasted a tri-zone climate control system, a 21-speaker stereo system, and a panoramic glass roof. With 34.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 84 cubic feet with the seats folded, the GV80 offered impressive utility. Its towing capacity of 6,000 pounds further enhanced its practicality.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson came equipped with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, a six-speaker audio system, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, HD Radio, and two USB ports. Higher trims offered a 10.25-inch touchscreen, though it required wired connections for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The larger screen was integrated into a black plastic head unit, housing climate control and media functions. While the touchpoints were responsive, the lack of physical buttons made it challenging to operate while driving, necessitating reliance on steering wheel controls and voice commands.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 12.3-inch 3D digital gauge cluster. While the infotainment screen was slightly out of reach, a dial provided an alternative control method, though it required cycling through icons. The system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, albeit not wirelessly. The GV80 included wireless charging, multiple USB ports, and a 110-volt outlet. A standout feature was the remote smart parking assist, allowing the vehicle to maneuver in and out of parking spaces without the driver inside, enhancing convenience.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA at the time. However, it offered a comprehensive suite of safety features through Hyundai SmartSense, including forward collision-avoidance assist, lane-keep assist, automatic high beams, and more. Additional features like blind-spot warning, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view camera system were available, providing a level of safety comparable to luxury SUVs. Hyundai's warranty coverage included a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty and complimentary maintenance for three years.

The 2023 Genesis GV80 was equipped with an array of advanced driver aids, including forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. A unique feature was the blind-spot video feed displayed in the digital gauge cluster, enhancing visibility. The GV80 also featured Highway Drive Assist, which used cameras and radar for hands-on/eyes-up driving assistance on approved highways. While it occasionally struggled with sun glare, the system provided stress relief in traffic. The GV80 received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and high marks from the IIHS for crashworthiness and front crash prevention.