It only took a few years for Hyundai’s luxury brand Genesis to be taken seriously. A big reason was the GV80, a stylish and upscale SUV that looks great and drives better. First introduced in 2021, it out-performed equivalent models from the affordable Japanese brands but still cost thousands less than versions by the legacy European manufacturers.
Four years later, the 2025 Genesis is still considered one of the best mid-size luxury SUV’s available with two or three rows of seats. My test version still looks as striking as it was when first introduced, with flush headlights and taillights that help it stand out in a crowd. The large front grill has a different mesh pattern this year, but it’s hard to tell the difference, however.
The interior of the GV80 is equally stylish and easily meets all luxury standards. The leather and other materials are of the highest quality. The biggest change this year is the display, with the previous upright 14.5-inch center screen replaced by an integrated 27-inch-wide screen across the top of the dash that is as modern as any other luxury vehicle.
And every version of the GV80 still comes standard with all-wheel-drive, a plus in the wet Pacific Northwest.
But, although I enjoyed every minute behind the wheel, some questions surfaced. Hyundai is an acclaimed leader in the hybrid and all-electric markets, but the GV80 is still offered with only a choice of two gas-powered engines, although both of them are very good.
In fact, Genesis is moving in the other direction with the release this year of the 2025 Genesis GV80 Coupe with fastback styling and an electric supercharged 3.5-liter V6 that boosts the output to 409 horsepower and 409 pound-feet of torque. Although I have not had a chance to test it yet, I’m sure that version drives very great since the original GV80 is so good, but I’m wondering if that’s really the best way to compete against equivalent mid-size luxury SUVs that are available as hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and pure EVs? Especially considering my tester was only EPA rated at 19 average miles per gallon.
That said, the 2025 GV80 remains a compelling package for those who prefer traditional gas-powered engines, which are still the best option for most owners. The base 2.5T starts at $59,050 with a wide range of standard equipment and a refined turbocharged 2.5-liter engine that produces 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. It continues to be the standard engine through four more trim levels, ending with the 2.5T Prestige that starts at $79,300. Car and Driver found it goes zero to 60 miles per hour in a brisk 6.1 seconds.
The even more powerful twin turbocharged 3.5-liter engine pumps out an even more impressive 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque, starting in the 3.5T Advanced trim at $75,150 and continue through the top-of-the-line 3.5T Prestige that begins at $80,650. Car and Driver clocked its zero to 60 time at a mere 5.3 seconds, which is more than respectable for a non-performance mid-size luxury SUV.
More than $21,000 is obviously a lot of money between the entry-level version and starting price of the top-of-the-line model for any vehicle. But the seven total trim levels give buyers the opportunity to pick and choose which upgrades they prefer, including 20-inch wheels, a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, four-zone automatic climate control, heated seats and steering wheel, adaptive cruise control with lane centering, a Bang & Olufsen stereo system, automatic high-beam headlamps, a head-up display, and much more.
The GV80 is available as a three-row SUV with the 2.5T engine but only offers two rows with the 3.5T. Maximum towing capacity increases 6000 pounds with the 3.5T, which is about mid-range for its class. That’s good to know, although I doubt many owners will ever tow a boat or camper on a weekend getaway.
Instead, the whole point of a luxury SUV is its performance, ride and comfort, and the GV80 still continues to punch above its price point in all categories. In a week of daily driving, my 2025 test model was always quiet, smooth, luxurious and swift when pushed. The Sport mode setting increased responsiveness, without being unexpectedly fast. Some owners might feel the suspension is a little firm, even in the Comfort mode. I didn’t think so, but a lengthy test drive is recommended, like for any new vehicle purchase.
Genesis has made a name for itself in recent years with a line of high-quality cars and SUVs. Although the 2025 GV80 Coupe may now be its flagship, the more conventional version is still a top pick for anyone in the market for a genuine mid-size luxury SUV without breaking the bank.
2025 Genesis GV80
Base price: $59,050 (2.5T)
Price as tested: $81,300 (Prestige AWD)
Type: Mid-size luxury SUV
Engine: Turbocharged 2.5-liter 4 (300 hp, 311 lbs-ft); twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 (375 hp, 391 lbs-ft – as tested)
Transmission: 8-speed automatic
Modes: Eco, Comfort, Sport, Custom
EPA estimated mileage: 20/23; 16/22 – as tested
Overall length: 194.7 inches
Curb weight: 5,009 pounds
Final assembly: Ulsan, South Korea
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