2023 Genesis GV80 vs 2023 BMW X5

When choosing a car, some people follow an impulse based on a color or a look. However, the smartest way to buy any car is to understand how the price represents . This is especially true with luxury cars where packaging can be remarkably different from brand to brand.

In this case, the 2023 Genesis GV80 and 2023 BMW X5 are two similarly sized luxury SUVs. These 2 row SUVs both offer an optional third row. There are, however, some defining characteristics and features that show the GV80 should be the first one of a luxury shopper’s list.

1. Luxury Today

   The GV80 design is first generation, introduced in 2021. BMW X5 models are from the generation released in 2019. Initial cabins are not considered very ritzy for the price whereas Genesis GV80 SUVs are considered a bargain for the high end materials and more reasonable pricing.

   BMW established its reputation almost a century ago, and it can rest more on its past. Genesis, one of the newest luxury brands, has had to work hard to get shoppers to step out. This has led to a fresh approach to design with an old-school emphasis on high end materials, classic style, and refined fit and finish. Critics definitely have approved of the GV80 in particular.

   Here’s a sample of what they say about its style and luxury:

   * Sumptuous interior -- Kelley Blue Book

   * Ultra luxurious cabin, Stunning materials, Spacious Layout -- Motor Trend

   * Jaw-dropping cabin with sumptuous first and second rows -- US News and World Report

2. 2023 GV80 vs X5 Price Comparison

   With its luxury credentials solidly established, the GV80 trim levels and costs are the next aspects to consider. GV80 prices start at $55,550 MSRP and the BMW X5 price starts at $59,400 MSRP. Clearly you can spend less and still enjoy real luxury.

   Your automotive dollar goes further with Genesis. As Motor Trend writes about the GV80, it has “great features per dollar”. Not only is it the highest rated midsize luxury SUV at Kelley Blue Book, but it earned the critic’s 2023 Midsize Luxury SUV Best Buy.

   As you climb the trim ladder or choose packages, X5 prices go up to $105,900 while the GV80 tops off at about $75,000. The top GV80 comes packed with luxuries, amenities, and technologies that ensure it will remain at the peak of stylishness and modernity for much less than the BMW X5 top trim.

3. All Wheel Drive and Performance

   For 2023, Genesis made all wheel drive standard on all GV80 models. All wheel drive is an extra cost on the already higher priced BMW X5.

   The GV80 is powered by a turbo four or a twin turbo V6. It produces 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque or 375 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. These are the same engines that helped the Genesis GV70 earn 2022 Motor Trend of the Year.

   BMW X5 models earn 335 or 380 horsepower, or a shopper can get 500-plus horsepower with one of the highest priced V8 models.

4. Size and Spaciousness

   Interior space is essential in a luxury SUV. These two are similar, but the GV80 has an advantage when it comes to legroom. An extra 1.3 inches for legs is especially nice for second row passengers.

   

   The standard cargo volume is slightly bigger for the GV80 than the X5. Genesis engineers designed it with a wide entry for easy loading. If the seats are folded, the difference grows from about 1 cubic foot to about 9 cubic feet. Once again, the numbers favor the Genesis GV80 over the X5.

5. Cost to Own

   Potentially the cost to own the Genesis SUV starts out lower than the BMW X5 simply because the shopper may have saved thousands at purchase. Beyond that, considerations include fuel economy, warranty coverage, and reliability.

   Fuel economy is similar on the base engines, but as the BMW V8 powertrains drop fuel economy into the mid teens. There’s a big difference between the Genesis V6 earning 18/23 mpg and a BMW X5 earning 13/18 mpg with a V8.

   Then there’s the Genesis warranty coverage that goes for a year or five years longer than the BMW 4-year coverage. Reducing expenses, the GV80 comes with three years/36,000 miles of complimentary maintenance.

   

   Lastly, when it comes to reliability, the 2023 Genesis GV80 is rated at 82 out of 100. This range is considered Good by industry analyst JD Power. The 2023 BMW X5 is rated at 77 out of 100, an average score at JD Power.

Conclusion

With its promise of value, more standards for the money, and long term ownership benefits, it only makes sense to put the 2023 Electrified Genesis GV80 ahead of the 2023 BMW X5.

You can test drive the GV80 midsize luxury SUV at Genesis of North Scottsdale.