2024 Genesis GV80 vs 2024 BMW X5

The 2024 BMW X5, last redesigned in 2019, maintained a timeless appeal, though the M Sport treatment was not universally loved, giving it a station wagon-like appearance. The test vehicle featured optional 21-inch "741M" wheels with staggered-width summer tires, which were considered a worthy upgrade despite the potential cost of tire replacement. The X5 offered a range of powertrains, including a turbocharged inline six-cylinder, a turbo-six PHEV, and a turbocharged V8, with various trim packages and options to enhance features. The xDrive50e M Sport model tested came with Brooklyn Grey paint and a full suite of equipment packages, priced at $88,075. The 2024 model received a light styling refresh and introduced the BMW Curved Display, modernizing the interior while retaining high-quality materials and construction.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 offered a choice between the 2.5T and 3.5T models, with trim levels ranging from Standard to Prestige Signature. Prices started at $57,700, with the test vehicle, a 3.5T Prestige Signature, priced at $84,600. The Prestige Signature trim featured exclusive exterior colors and a 22-inch wheel design, though the wheels' details were obscured by black paint. The interior, however, was luxurious, with diamond-stitched Nappa leather, a suede headliner, and a wide touchscreen display. Despite its opulence, the Prestige Signature's exterior was less impressive than the Prestige model. The GV80's interior exuded luxury, but the recommendation was to opt for the regular Prestige trim for a more balanced appeal.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e PHEV featured a new mild-hybrid system with a more powerful electric motor and a 19.2 kWh lithium-ion battery, doubling the maximum AC charging rate to 7.4 kW. It offered 38 miles of electric-only range and 22 mpg in hybrid mode, with a total output of 483 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque, accelerating to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. The PHEV was praised for its driving dynamics, with adaptive damping air suspension and excellent handling, especially in Sport mode. The evaluation drive achieved 38.8 mpg over 95.5 miles, showcasing the PHEV's efficiency and performance.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 3.5T featured a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. It offered five driving modes and a towing capacity of 6,000 pounds. The GV80 delivered a rewarding driving experience, with swift acceleration and commendable grip from its all-season tires. The adaptive damping suspension and larger front brakes enhanced its athleticism, though the steering was unremarkable. The GV80's performance was satisfying, but fuel efficiency was lower than expected, with 17.2 mpg observed during testing.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e offered a spacious interior with seating for five and a cargo area expandable from 33.1 to 71.2 cubic feet. The split liftgate design provided a convenient seating area but required stretching to access deep cargo. The test vehicle featured BMW's Sensafin artificial leather, standard sport seats, and the Climate Comfort Package, which included 20-way power-adjustable front seats, four-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. The X5 no longer offered a third-row seat, focusing on comfort and practicality for five passengers.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 3.5T Advanced was the only model with a third-row seat, while the Prestige Signature trim seated four with second-row captain's chairs. The test vehicle featured a panoramic glass roof, triple-zone climate control, and ventilated front seats with massage functions. However, the seats were less comfortable on long trips, and rear legroom was limited. The GV80 offered 34.9 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 84 cubic feet, but the Prestige Signature's rear console required careful loading. Despite its luxurious interior, the GV80's seating comfort was a drawback.

The 2024 BMW X5 featured the BMW Curved Display, combining a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel with a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It ran BMW Operating System 8.5, offering wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a cloud-based navigation system. The test vehicle included a Harman Kardon sound system, but the Intelligent Personal Assistant's performance was disappointing, with inaccurate voice recognition. The head-up display and augmented video function were praised, but the reduction in physical controls was seen as a drawback.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 offered a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment display, with a control dial on the center console. It included a navigation system, SiriusXM, and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The GV80 introduced a Wi-Fi hotspot and wireless smartphone charging, with the Prestige Signature adding second-row charging. The voice-recognition system was user-friendly, and the digital key system allowed smartphone access. The Prestige and Prestige Signature featured a head-up display, enhancing safety with blind-spot warnings. The GV80's technology was intuitive and effective, though the infotainment display's placement required using the control dial.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced the Highway Assistant hands-free driving system, which required deliberate activation. It performed well in light traffic but was less effective in moderate traffic, with occasional errant braking. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance were praised for their subtle operation. The X5 received high ratings from the IIHS but missed an award due to lower headlight ratings. The NHTSA gave it a four-star overall rating.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 featured advanced driving-assistance systems, including a Blind-Spot View Monitor and Remote Smart Parking Assist. The Highway Driving Assist system worked well in light traffic but was less effective in moderate traffic. The Blind-Spot View Monitor provided a video feed in the digital instrument panel, enhancing safety. The GV80 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with four-star ratings for frontal-impact tests.