2023 Genesis GV70 vs 2024 Volvo XC90

The 2023 Genesis GV70 exhibited a design that cleverly connected it to its sedan counterpart, the G70, with styling cues like split-bar headlights and a strong chrome line that visually linked the two models. This chrome bar was a smart design element that suggested a coupe-like SUV without sacrificing versatility. Inside, the GV70's cabin was a testament to luxury, featuring top-notch materials and excellent fit and finish. The interior design was both contemporary and classic, with climate controls integrated into a curving bezel and a touchscreen that rose organically from the dash. The GV70's dash included a full touchscreen, a rotary dial, and helpful button controls, offering a user-friendly interface. The physical rollers on the centre console and steering wheel were a nod to practicality, providing a better experience than touch capacitive controls.

In contrast, the 2024 Volvo XC90 was available in B6 and Recharge T8 model series, with the latter offering a plug-in hybrid option. The XC90's exterior paint palette was subdued and earthy, aligning with its luxury SUV status that leaned towards practicality, safety, and sustainability. The interior design, though dated, was fitted with rich materials, especially in the Ultimate trim. Volvo's wool-blend upholstery and ventilated Nappa leather were available, along with an Orrefors crystal shift knob and natural wood trim. The XC90 allowed buyers to mix and match paint, wheels, and upholstery, catering to individual preferences. The Recharge T8 model, in particular, came with a Lounge Package, massaging front seats, and a high-end Bowers & Wilkins audio system, enhancing the luxury experience.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 offered two powertrains: a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, and a twin-turbo 3.5-litre V6 engine delivering 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The turbo-four provided ample power for most driving situations, while the V6 catered to performance enthusiasts with its extra grunt and throaty engine note. The GV70 balanced comfort and sharp handling, offering a refined driving experience. The Electrified GV70 featured a 77.4-kWh battery powering two electric motors, producing a combined 429 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. It offered a total range of 383 kilometres and could fast charge from 10 to 80 percent in just 18 minutes.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8 combined an 18.8-kilowatt-hour battery and a 107-kilowatt electric motor with a supercharged and turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque. It offered 53 kilometres of electric-only driving and averaged 8.9 litres per 100 kilometres in hybrid mode. The XC90 Recharge T8 could accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in five seconds. Recharging was straightforward, with options for standard household outlets or faster 240-volt outlets. The XC90 offered multiple driving modes, including Pure, Power, Hybrid, and Off-Road, providing versatility for different driving conditions. However, the XC90's handling was more focused on luxury than performance, with a firm ride and less thrilling handling compared to sportier SUVs.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 provided 1,611 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 818 litres with the seats in use, making it competitive in the compact luxury SUV segment. It featured a hands-free power liftgate and practical interior storage solutions, including large cupholders and a centre console tray. The front seats were comfortable and easy to adjust, but rear legroom was tighter, requiring front-row occupants to adjust their seats for rear passenger comfort. The rear bench could recline, enhancing comfort for passengers.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8, even in Core trim, was well-equipped with power-adjustable and heated front seats, leather upholstery, wood trim, and a four-zone climate control system. The panoramic glass roof added natural light, and higher trims offered additional features like a heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats with massage, and an integrated booster child seat. The XC90 seated seven or six with optional captain's chairs, and the third-row access was tight for adults. Cargo capacity was generous, with up to 1,854 litres with the third row folded and 2,426 litres with the second row down.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system was user-friendly, with large icons and logical menus. Genesis included helpful buttons and a rotary dial for control, though its proximity to the rotary shifter could cause confusion. The GV70 offered four USB ports, wireless device charging, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a nine-speaker stereo system. Optional features included ambient lighting, a digital instrument panel, and a Lexicon 18-speaker audio system.

The 2024 Volvo XC90's 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system used Google Built-in technology, offering Google Maps, Google Play, and Google Assistant. It was compatible with Android devices and included Apple CarPlay and SiriusXM satellite radio. The XC90 offered a 14-speaker Harman Kardon or a 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system. The infotainment system was intuitive, and the digital voice assistant was generally effective. The XC90 also featured a 12-inch digital instrumentation panel and an available head-up display.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 came with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, driver attention monitoring, blind-spot monitoring, and highway driving assist. The 2.5T Advance Plus added a blind-spot camera system and a 360-degree parking camera. The GV70 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 was synonymous with safety, earning a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS in 2023. However, its advanced driving assistance systems were not as innovative as some rivals. The XC90 included Pilot Assist, which combined adaptive cruise control with lane-centring assist, but it struggled with certain driving conditions and lacked a hands-free driving system.