2024 Genesis GV80 vs 2025 Hyundai Kona

The 2024 Genesis GV80 presented a choice between two engines: a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder and a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6. Buyers could select from Standard, Advanced, Prestige, or Prestige Signature trims, with prices ranging from $57,700 to $81,750, plus a $1,350 destination charge. The test vehicle, a GV80 3.5T in the top-tier Prestige Signature trim, featured an optional Matterhorn White Matte paint, bringing the MSRP to $84,600. The Prestige Signature trim offered exclusive exterior colors and a stylish 22-inch wheel design, though the dark paint obscured the wheel details. Inside, the Ultramarine Blue over Dune interior exuded luxury with diamond-stitched Nappa leather, a suede headliner, and a wide touchscreen display. Despite its opulence, the recommendation leaned towards the regular Prestige trim for a more balanced appeal.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona, while visually unchanged from the 2024 model, maintained a fresh appearance with its flush grille and ultra-slim LED light bars. The Kona's design, though not classically handsome, was futuristic and satisfactory from most angles. The 2025 model was notably larger, offering more interior space and a more assertive road presence. The new N Line S trim, along with the N Line, featured sportier design elements. The Kona's interior remained unchanged, with a solid construction and ample tech. The 64-color ambient lighting became standard on higher trims, enhancing the cabin's ambiance. The Kona's practicality was evident in its cargo capacity and comfortable seating, making it a versatile choice for families.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 offered two engine options: a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 producing 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. The latter provided a more satisfying performance but was less fuel-efficient, with an observed 17.2 mpg compared to the EPA's 20 mpg estimate. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The GV80 featured five driving modes and could tow up to 6,000 pounds. The 3.5T model included upgraded brakes and adaptive suspension, offering a rewarding driving experience with swift acceleration and commendable grip. The steering, though unremarkable, was comfortable for long drives.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona offered two gas-powered engine options. The SE, SEL, and SEL Convenience trims featured a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine with 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT for fuel efficiency. The N Line S, N Line, and Limited trims had a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The turbo engine provided a broader torque band, though it felt flat at low revs. All-wheel drive was available across the lineup, enhancing the Kona's handling with a multi-link rear suspension. The Kona prioritized competence over excitement, offering a balanced ride for everyday driving.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 3.5T Advanced was the only trim with a third-row seat, while the Prestige Signature trim seated four with second-row captain's chairs. The interior featured premium materials, heated and ventilated seats, and a panoramic roof. However, the seats were uncomfortable for long trips, and rear legroom was limited. The GV80 offered 34.9 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 84 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The Prestige Signature's rear console limited cargo loading.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona provided 25.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 63.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Rear legroom was adequate at 38.2 inches, and the front seats offered a generous range of movement. The Kona's interior featured various storage compartments and a sense of space, aided by the relocated drive selector. Upholstery options varied by trim, with heated and ventilated seats available on higher trims. The climate control system ranged from single-zone air conditioning to dual-zone automatic control with rear vents.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment display, controlled via a center console dial. The Prestige trims included a 12.3-inch digital instrument display with a 3D appearance. Standard features included navigation, satellite radio, and wired smartphone integration. The GV80 introduced a Wi-Fi hotspot and wireless charging, with the Prestige Signature adding second-row charging. The infotainment system was user-friendly, and the digital key system allowed smartphone access. Most trims had a Lexicon sound system, with a head-up display on Prestige trims.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona offered a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display with wireless smartphone integration. Higher trims included wireless charging and a digital key. The SEL Convenience trim and above featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The N Line and Limited trims offered a Bose audio system, while lower trims had a six-speaker setup. Built-in navigation was available on select trims, with smartphone pairing as an alternative. Hyundai's Bluelink connectivity enabled over-the-air updates.

The 2024 Genesis GV80 came equipped with advanced safety features, including a Blind-Spot View Monitor, Remote Smart Parking Assist, and Highway Driving Assist. The latter combined adaptive cruise control with lane-centering and lane-change assist. The Blind-Spot View Monitor displayed video feeds in the digital instrument panel, enhancing lane-change safety. The GV80 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though frontal-impact ratings were four stars.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona impressed with its standard safety features, including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and Blind-Spot Collision Warning. Higher trims added Highway Driving Assist and enhanced collision-avoidance features. The Limited trim included parking assistance technologies. All Konas featured six airbags, electronic stability control, and a tire pressure monitoring system. The Kona earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.