2024 Genesis GV80 vs 2024 Hyundai Venue

The 2024 Genesis GV80 offered a choice between the 2.5T turbocharged four-cylinder and the 3.5T twin-turbocharged V6 models, with trim levels ranging from Standard to Prestige Signature. Prices varied from $57,700 to $81,750, plus a $1,350 destination charge. The test vehicle, a 3.5T in Prestige Signature trim, featured a Matterhorn White Matte paint job, bringing the MSRP to $84,600. Prestige Signature models came in exclusive colors like Vik Black and Mauna Red, with dark chrome trim and 22-inch wheels. The interior boasted Ultramarine Blue over Dune with diamond-stitched Nappa leather, a suede headliner, and a wide touchscreen display, exuding luxury. Despite its opulence, the Prestige Signature trim was not deemed more attractive than the regular Prestige model.

The 2024 Hyundai Venue was available in SE, SEL, and Limited trims, with prices from $21,275 to $24,525, including a $1,375 destination charge. The test vehicle, a Limited trim in Ecotronic Gray, had an MSRP of $24,735. The Venue's design was appealing, with a mature and subdued appearance. Inside, it featured hard plastics but maintained a stylish look with striped seats and white trim. The digital instrumentation and 8-inch touchscreen infotainment display were well-suited to the Venue's size, and the controls exhibited typical Hyundai quality. The Venue was thoughtfully designed, stylishly detailed, and high-quality for a small SUV.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 2.5T featured a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, outperforming some rivals' V6 engines. The 3.5T model, tested, had a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. It offered satisfying performance but was thirsty, with an observed 17.2 mpg compared to the EPA's 20 mpg. Both engines paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, offering five driving modes. The GV80 3.5T included upgraded brakes and adaptive damping suspension, providing a rewarding driving experience with swift acceleration and commendable grip.

The 2024 Hyundai Venue was equipped with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine producing 121 horsepower and 113 pound-feet of torque. Weighing 2,612 pounds, it was agile with a CVT maximizing power. Best suited for city and suburban driving, it offered nimble handling and excellent visibility. The Venue's suspension struggled on rough roads, resulting in a busy ride. On highways, it maintained pace but sounded buzzy under pressure. Lacking AWD, it had 6.7 inches of ground clearance. The Venue achieved 31 mpg in combined driving, with an observed 30.3 mpg on a mountainous loop.

In 2024, the Genesis GV80 3.5T Advanced was the only model with a third-row seat, while the Prestige Signature seated four with captain’s chairs. The test vehicle featured a panoramic roof, triple-zone climate control, and ventilated front seats with massage functions. However, seat comfort was lacking, with diamond-stitched surfaces feeling like bubble wrap. Cargo space was 34.9 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 84 cubic feet with seats folded, though the rear console height required caution when loading.

The Hyundai Venue's increased ground clearance made entry and exit easier. Despite its small size, comfort was decent, with manual height-adjustable driver’s seat and tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel. The back seat technically accommodated three, but two were more comfortable. Storage was limited, and there were no rear air vents. Cargo space was 18.7 cubic feet, expanding to 31.9 cubic feet with the back seat folded.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment display, with a control dial for ease of use. Standard features included navigation, SiriusXM, and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Prestige Signature added wireless charging in the second row. The digital key system allowed smartphone unlocking and starting. Most trims had a Lexicon sound system, with a head-up display showing blind-spot warnings.

The Hyundai Venue had an 8-inch touchscreen with modern graphics and simple operation. Standard features included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Limited trim added navigation, SiriusXM, and a wireless charger, though it required wired connections for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system was sophisticated, with impressive voice recognition.

The Genesis GV80 came with advanced driving-assistance systems, including a Blind-Spot View Monitor, Remote Smart Parking Assist, and Highway Driving Assist. The IIHS awarded it a Top Safety Pick+ rating, and the NHTSA gave it a five-star overall rating, though frontal-impact tests received four stars.

The Hyundai Venue included Hyundai SmartSense with forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and more. The Limited trim added cyclist detection. The IIHS rated it Good in three crash tests, with an Acceptable rating for LED headlights. The NHTSA gave it a four-star overall rating.