Ep 43. Episode 43: Genesis GV80

MotorWeek is a car enthusiast's dream show, and in season 40 episode 43, viewers are treated to a comprehensive review of the much-anticipated Genesis GV80. The Korean luxury brand has been gaining traction in the United States market for several years now, and its first SUV is expected to boost sales even further.

The episode opens with host John Davis providing a brief background on the Genesis brand, which is Hyundai's luxury division that was launched in 2015. He emphasizes that Genesis is on a mission to provide "athletic elegance" in their vehicles, meaning that they're not just beautiful to look at, but also fun to drive.

Next, Davis introduces the GV80, which he says has been a long time coming. Genesis has been teasing the SUV since 2017, and it finally made its debut in early 2020. The GV80 represents a significant milestone for the brand since it's their first SUV, and it's expected to compete with heavyweights like the BMW X5, Audi Q7, and Mercedes-Benz GLE.

To help give viewers a better idea of what the GV80 is all about, the MotorWeek team takes the SUV for a spin on the road and on the track. The first thing they note is the GV80's exterior design, which they describe as "stunning." The SUV has a commanding presence on the road, and its athletic lines and bold front grille give it an air of confidence. The team is also impressed by the quality of materials used in the interior, including real wood and leather.

Once they hit the road, the MotorWeek team notes that the GV80 offers a smooth and quiet ride. Engine options include a 2.5-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine that produces 300 horsepower and a 3.5-liter V6 that puts out 375 horsepower. The team tests the V6 and is impressed with its power and responsiveness. They also praise the eight-speed automatic transmission for its smooth shifts.

One area where the GV80 sets itself apart from its competitors is with its advanced safety features. The SUV comes standard with features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. The team tests these features on the road and is pleased with how well they work. They also note that the GV80 offers a 360-degree camera system, making it easier to navigate tight spots.

After testing the GV80 on the road, the MotorWeek team heads to the track to see how it handles in more challenging conditions. They note that the SUV feels surprisingly nimble for its size, thanks in part to its rear-wheel-drive platform. The team also praises the steering for its precision and the brakes for their stopping power.

Overall, the MotorWeek team is impressed with the Genesis GV80. They note that it offers a winning combination of style, performance, and safety features that will appeal to a wide range of customers. They also predict that the GV80 will be a strong competitor in the luxury SUV market.

In addition to the main review of the GV80, the episode also features the usual segments that viewers have come to expect from MotorWeek. There's a "Goss' Garage" segment where Pat Goss answers viewer questions about car maintenance and repair. There's also a "Quick Spin" segment where one of the MotorWeek team members takes a quick drive in a different vehicle to provide their first impressions.

Overall, MotorWeek season 40 episode 43 is a must-watch for anyone interested in the Genesis GV80 or in the luxury SUV market in general. The episode is informative, entertaining, and well-produced, making it a worthy addition to the long-running MotorWeek series.