2026 Genesis GV80 3.5T Prestige
Can Genesis Keep Its Bentley-Like Luxury SUV Competitive?
Genesis may be a relatively young luxury brand, but in just about a decade, it has managed to establish itself as a serious alternative to established luxury players. Around five years ago, Genesis entered the midsize luxury SUV segment with its first SUV, the GV80. Since then, the GV80 has been competing directly with strong rivals like the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE, Lexus RX, Acura MDX, Audi Q7, and Volvo XC90.
For 2026, Genesis continues to refine the GV80. The model received a major refresh last year, including a sleeker coupe-style version. This review focuses on the 2026 Genesis GV80 squareback, tested here in its top-spec 3.5T Prestige trim, to evaluate whether the latest updates are enough to keep it competitive in a crowded luxury SUV market.
Engine and Performance
Before discussing the design changes, it is important to understand what powers the 2026 Genesis GV80.
Powertrain Options (US Spec)
Genesis offers two engine choices for the squareback GV80:
3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 (Tested Model)
Engine: 3.5-litre direct-injection twin-turbo V6
Layout: Longitudinal, rear-wheel drive based architecture
Power: 375 horsepower
Torque: 391 lb-ft
Transmission: 8-speed automatic (Genesis-developed)
Drivetrain: HTRAC all-wheel drive standard
0 to 60 mph: Claimed 5.7 seconds, tested between 5.38 to 5.59 seconds
Top speed: Just under 150 mph
Towing capacity: Up to 6,000 lbs
2.5L Turbo Four-Cylinder
Power: 300 horsepower
Better fuel efficiency
Available with rear-wheel drive for 2026
Expected to be the better value option for most buyers
The GV80 rides on a proper rear-drive platform, making it fundamentally different from mainstream Hyundai or Kia SUVs like the Palisade or Telluride.
Fuel Economy and Range
Fuel efficiency remains one of the weaker areas of the V6 GV80.
City: 16 mpg
Highway: 22 mpg
Fuel type: Premium gasoline
Fuel tank capacity: 21.1 gallons
Real-world range: Around 370 to 400 miles
Genesis has confirmed that a hybrid version is expected, possibly within the next year, which should significantly improve efficiency.
Exterior Design and Styling
The GV80 received a substantial design refresh last year, and the 2026 model continues with that updated design language.
Front Design Highlights
Large crest grille with intricate chrome detailing
Bentley-inspired visual presence
MLA-style full LED headlights with dual-line lighting signature
Chrome-accented lower bumper with functional air intakes
360-degree camera system integrated into the design
The Storr Green matte exterior colour, priced at approximately $1,500, dramatically elevates the GV80’s luxury appeal and gives it a distinctive road presence.
Side Profile and Dimensions
The GV80 balances size and proportions well within the midsize luxury SUV segment.
Overall length: 194.5 inches
Wheelbase: 116 inches
Comparable in size to BMW X5 and Volvo XC90
Shorter than Audi Q7 and Lexus TX
Prestige trim highlights
22-inch alloy wheels
Michelin Primacy all-season tyres (265/40 R22)
Adaptive suspension dampers standard on all V6 trims
Ground clearance: Just over 8 inches
There is no air suspension or rear-wheel steering, features offered by some competitors.
Rear Design
Full LED tail lamps with three-dimensional design
Subtle roof spoiler
Digital camera rearview mirror exclusive to this trim
Hidden dual exhaust outlets for a clean appearance
Power tailgate with proximity function
Interior Quality and Cabin Experience
The interior remains one of the GV80’s strongest selling points and a key reason many buyers choose Genesis over established luxury brands.
Key Interior Highlights
Premium Nappa leather upholstery
Vanilla Beige and Smoky two-tone colour scheme
Real newspaper wood trim
16-way power adjustable front seats
Driver seat massage function
Heated and ventilated front and second-row seats
Soft-close doors on all four sides
Build quality feels solid, with no noticeable squeaks or rattles, and materials consistently feel upscale.
Technology and Infotainment
27-Inch OLED Display
Standard across all GV80 trims
One continuous ultra-wide OLED screen
Thin bezels and high resolution
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Driver Assistance and Features
Highway Driving Assist 2.0
Adaptive cruise control
Lane keep assist
Traffic jam assist
360-degree camera with perimeter scan
Digital rearview mirror
Genesis continues to offer excellent value by including advanced safety and tech features as standard equipment.
Second Row and Third Row Seating
Second Row Comfort
Heated and ventilated seats
Power sunshades
Three-zone climate control including third row
38.5 inches of legroom
High-quality leather and trim materials
Captain seats are not offered. All third-row models are seven-seaters.
Third Row Reality
Extremely tight for adults
Around 30 inches of legroom
Best suited for children or short trips
Still a useful option since some rivals like BMW X5 no longer offer a third row
Boot Space and Practicality
For 2026, Genesis has expanded third-row availability across more GV80 trims.
Cargo Capacity
| Seating Configuration | Boot Space |
|---|---|
| Third row up | 11.6 cubic feet |
| Third row folded | 36.5 cubic feet |
| Second row folded | 71.4 cubic feet |
While cargo space is competitive, some rivals like the Lexus TX and BMW X5 offer more room. The third row is best suited for occasional or emergency use rather than regular adult seating.
Driving Experience and Ride Quality
Despite riding on large 22-inch wheels, the GV80 delivers a comfortable and refined ride.
On-Road Impressions
Smooth and responsive V6 performance
Excellent noise insulation
Adaptive dampers absorb road imperfections well
Tank-like stability similar to German luxury SUVs
Steering prioritises comfort over sportiness
The 8-speed automatic transmission is smooth and well-calibrated, avoiding the jerkiness found in some dual-clutch systems.
Pricing and Variants (US Market)
Genesis introduced a rear-wheel-drive base model for 2026, making the GV80 more accessible.
2026 Genesis GV80 Price Overview
Base RWD: Around $57,660
AWD upgrade: Approximately $2,000
Select trim: Around $63,000
Advanced trim: Around $68,000
Prestige (four-cylinder): Around $73,000
V6 Prestige: Around $82,000
Prestige Black package: Additional $1,000
The tested vehicle, with matte paint and destination charges, reached approximately $85,000.
Sales Performance and Market Position
In the last year, Genesis sold over 24,000 GV80 units in the US, marking its best sales year ever. It even outsold the Audi Q7, a significant achievement for a relatively young luxury brand.
The GV80 is now Genesis’s second best-selling model, just behind the smaller GV70.
Final Verdict
The 2026 Genesis GV80 continues to impress with its bold design, luxurious interior, and strong value proposition. While fuel efficiency and third-row usability remain weak points, the overall package feels premium, refined, and competitive.
For buyers prioritising luxury, comfort, and interior quality, the GV80 stands out strongly against Japanese and European rivals. The four-cylinder version makes the most sense today, while the upcoming hybrid is likely to be the ideal choice once it arrives.
For now, the GV80 remains one of the most visually striking and comfortable midsize luxury SUVs on sale.
