GENESIS GV80 DEALERSHIP | CARMEL, IN

Interior updates:   The best place to understand the comfort of the GV80 is at your local Genesis dealer; the second-best place is right here. We were thrilled to hear that Genesis had decided to update the interior of the GV80. Don't get us wrong, the old GV80 was great, but they really kicked things up a notch with this iteration. It seems like Genesis has an even greater emphasis on using high-quality materials for the updated GV80. Design upgrades have improved the GV80's elegance, including a better-looking 3-spoke, two-tone steering wheel with optional heating, a better pedal design, and a center console made from premium materials. We also love the ambient lighting, which is adjustable. It really highlights all the unique materials in the GV80 well and provides some fun customization.

Technology:   We had seen some people weren't thrilled with some of the infotainment features of the old design, so we were excited to see that gone are the smaller infotainment screen and traditional gauge cluster. In its place is a wide 27-inch OLED display that serves as the multimedia screen in the center with driving info on the left. This showcases the blend of updated high-tech features and creates an overall cleaner look. Additionally, Genesis made things easier with a new wireless smartphone charging tray with better phone visibility, as well as a larger console cup holder and an easier-to-use knob for volume and tuning adjustments. While audio systems on the lower trims are plenty fine for most of us, if you're an audiophile, bumping up 2 trim levels to get the Bang & Olufsen Premium Audio system is definitely the right move. The available surround view monitor and remote smart parking assist are two tech features that we want to highlight, as they are both well thought out and just make life easier.

Seating options:   One thing we like to point out is that the seats are a bit like buying a high-quality sofa. It may start a bit on the firm side, but that's because it's manufactured well. Give it a little time to break in, and you will be thrilled with the overall comfort. While not a necessity, since this is a luxury SUV, we would recommend going for a trim with the massage driver seat function. Life is too short not to give yourself some extra perks now and then. If that's a little too much for you, you'll be happy to know that heated seats come standard and ventilated seats are added pretty quickly on higher trim levels. The second row does add heating and ventilation for high trims as well. Models with a third-row option offer power reclining but no unique features beyond that.

Cargo and passenger space:   You'd be hard-pressed to find more cargo and 2nd-row passenger space in a mid-sized SUV than the GV80. At 38.7 inches of legroom, most passengers should fit comfortably in the back unless they are well over 6 feet, in which case you may need to get a little creative finding an SUV anyways. Cargo space comes in at 36.5 cubic feet behind the second row and 71.7 cubic feet total if you put the rear seats down. Let's put that in more practical terms, though. We estimate that you could fit 6-7 full-size luggage bags back there or easily fit you and your foursome's golf bags with space to spare. We like that there is the option for a 7-seat configuration on the 3.5T Advanced, although you should consider the size of your rear passengers to figure out if this would be the right option for you. Overall, if you don't have any needs for 7 adult-size passengers, we would be genuinely surprised if the GV80 was too small for you.

Design updates:   The GV80 has been one of the best-selling Genesis models for a few years now, so it can make us a bit nervous when we hear about potential redesigns. Now, for this particular article, we will focus on the standard GV80, but we also offer a full review of the GV80 coupe as well. The new GV80 isn't drastically different, but the changes they made had a huge positive impact. We particularly like the newly crafted Two-Line Crest Grille alongside the signature two-line headlamps that make our brand so popular. The new GV80 made the air intakes larger, added a wide skid plate on the front bumper, and added a tasteful amount of chrome accents that make it stand out even more. At the rear, the GV80 has shifted to concealed muffler tips within the bumper. We tend to prefer the way this is finished more than the prior design, but if you're someone who loves a dual exhaust style, this is something to keep in mind.

Standout features:   You can't go wrong with either of the two new redesigned wheel options. The 20-inch and 22-inch versions both accent the GV80 well, so we wouldn't recommend making a trim decision solely based on that. We appreciate the hands-free liftgate that comes standard across all trims, especially since, as a luxury brand, it feels like it should be a given. You'll also be happy to know that the panoramic sunroof is offered for every trim except the base. The power-folding outside mirrors are convenient, but it's the Genesis logo puddle lamps that really make it a standout feature.