2025 Genesis GV80 vs 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 5

The 2025 Genesis GV80 was a testament to sophisticated design, offering two engine options and five trims, with the top Prestige trim featuring a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged engine. The redesign enhanced its already handsome appearance, with a more aggressive front bumper and a grille with added depth. The micro lens array headlights and subtle rear changes, along with new color options like Storr Green, added to its allure. Inside, the GV80 boasted quilted Nappa leather seats, a suede headliner, and unique interior accents, including basalt or recycled newspaper trim. The center console featured three tactile dials, though the redundant infotainment dial seemed less practical compared to the touchscreen.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 combined a 1980s hatchback vibe with modern crossover SUV elements, resulting in a unique and attractive design. Its angular lines and triangular profile, along with dark cladding, gave it a crossover flavor. The front featured a visor slit with rectangular headlights, while the rear had an integrated spoiler and darkened panels. The XRT model stood out with 18-inch alloys, pixel-patterned cladding, and a rally car-like appearance. Inside, the Ioniq 5 was more utilitarian, with standard cloth upholstery and synthetic leather in higher trims. The tech-focused interior included dual 12.3-inch screens and touch controls, though the overall look was somewhat sterile.

The 2025 Genesis GV80 retained its powertrain options, with a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. The top trim featured a twin-turbocharged six-cylinder engine delivering 375 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. All trims came with all-wheel drive, capable of sending up to 100% of torque to the rear wheels. The GV80 offered modes like Snow and Eco for different driving conditions. While acceleration was satisfying, the SUV was more suited for cruising than sporty driving. The brakes were firm and linear, ensuring confident stops, and the interior remained quiet even on rough roads.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 offered a single-motor, rear-wheel-drive powertrain with 168 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque in the base trim, while other trims had 220 horsepower. The dual-motor, all-wheel-drive option increased output to 320 horsepower and 446 lb-ft of torque. The Ioniq 5 N performance model boasted 641 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque. The dual-motor powertrain provided robust power, with a 0-60 mph time of 5.3 seconds. Regenerative braking settings allowed for customizable driving experiences. The Ioniq 5 XRT offered off-road capabilities with terrain modes and improved ground clearance, though it lacked some rally car features.

The 2025 Genesis GV80 came well-equipped with features like power-adjustable heated seats, power-folding mirrors, and the Mood Curator for a spa-like experience. The top trim included heated armrests, three-zone climate control, and ventilated front seats. However, the seats were uncomfortable for long trips. Most trims seated five, with a power-adjustable second row offering 39 inches of legroom. The optional third row was best for small children due to limited legroom. Cargo space was similar to the 2024 model's 35 cubic feet, and the GV80 could tow 6,000 pounds with trailer brakes.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 featured spacious front seats with standard eight-way power adjustments and heated seats. The Limited trim added ventilated front seats and a "Relaxation" seat for the driver. The rear seat offered 39.4 inches of legroom, accommodating two adults comfortably. Cargo space was 26.3 cubic feet with the rear seats up, expanding to 58.5 cubic feet when folded. The front trunk added 0.85 cubic feet. While cargo space was slightly smaller than some gas-powered crossovers, it was comparable to the Mustang Mach-E.

The 2025 Genesis GV80 featured a 27-inch OLED screen for the digital gauge cluster and infotainment system, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto available later. The infotainment system had clean graphics but could be cumbersome to navigate. Standard tech included wireless charging, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and four USB-C ports. Higher trims offered a digital key, a head-up display, and a digital rearview mirror. The 18-speaker Bang & Olufsen stereo system provided sophisticated sound quality.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 boasted a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Limited trim added a head-up display. The base audio system had six speakers, while the XRT and Limited trims featured an eight-speaker Bose system. The MyHyundai app allowed for remote control and monitoring of the vehicle. The infotainment screen was user-friendly, with voice commands and separate climate controls.

The 2025 Genesis GV80 included advanced driver aids like lane keeping assist, forward collision avoidance, and blind-spot monitoring. Upper trims added features like remote smart parking and a 360-degree camera system. The Highway Drive Assist system monitored driver attention and worked well in traffic. The 2024 model received high safety ratings, but the 2025 model had not yet been rated by NHTSA or IIHS.

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 came with standard safety features like blind-spot monitors, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. Options included a surround-view camera system and Highway Driving Assist 2. The Ioniq 5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS, but NHTSA ratings were unavailable. The lane-keep assist and blind-spot camera system were particularly effective.