MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index

MODEL

Genesis Gv80 Safety

NHTSA safety across every Genesis Gv80 model year we cover.

Across the 6 model years of the Genesis Gv80 we cover (2021 to 2026), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2025 at 88 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2026 at 82. 19 recalls have been issued across those years.

THE MOTORCALIBER REVIEW
MotorCaliber editorial ◆ Reviewed against NHTSA data ◆ 2026-10-01

The 2021 Genesis GV80 carries significant brand-building weight for Genesis as the flagship SUV for Hyundai's luxury arm. This midsize luxury SUV launched in the United States for the 2021 model year, positioning itself as a direct challenger to established European and Japanese premium brands. It aims at affluent buyers who want a refined, well-appointed alternative to the segment's usual suspects.

The 2025 Genesis GV80 achieves a strong 88 out of 100 on MotorCaliber's NHTSA Safety Index, the highest score for this nameplate. Crash-test results show a clear commitment to occupant protection. The GV80 earned a perfect 5-star rating for side-impact protection. Frontal crash tests resulted in a 4-star rating. Its 4-star rollover rating is respectable given the inherent challenges for taller SUV designs. The GV80's recall history warrants close scrutiny. Across the 2021 to 2025 model years, NHTSA records 18 recalls. This is a significant number for a model with a relatively short market presence. Prospective buyers should confirm all recall work has been completed on any used GV80 via NHTSA's VIN lookup tool. Owner complaints total 149 for the model years examined. These include 6 reported crashes, 5 reported injuries, and 1 alleged fire. This complaint volume is moderate for a premium SUV. While the 2025 model year shows improved safety scores, the elevated recall count prevents an unreserved assessment.

WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the GV80 as one of the more compelling entries in the midsize luxury SUV segment, praising its cabin refinement, high-quality interior materials, and composed ride comfort. Driving dynamics are typically described as smooth and confidence-inspiring rather than sporty. Most professional assessments position the GV80 as strong value within the luxury tier, with interior presentation that competes directly with longer-established European rivals.

WHAT TO KNOW
  • The GV80 has accumulated 18 recalls across the 2021 to 2025 model years, an above-average count for a relatively new nameplate. Any prospective buyer, especially of a used example, should run the VIN through NHTSA's free recall lookup to confirm all campaigns have been resolved before purchase.
  • The 2025 GV80 achieves an NHTSA Safety Index of 88 out of 100, the strongest score this model has posted across its covered years, suggesting that Genesis has been actively refining occupant protection as the model has matured.
  • Side-impact crash protection is the GV80's clearest strength, earning a 5-star rating in the best tested year. The frontal and rollover ratings both come in at 4 stars, which is competent but leaves a small gap compared to the side score, worth weighing if highway driving or rollover risk is a particular concern for your use case.
  • Owner complaints total 149 across covered model years, including 6 crash allegations and 5 injury allegations. These are unverified filings, but shoppers should review the specific complaint categories on NHTSA's website to understand which model years and systems have drawn the most attention before committing to a purchase.

Most-recalled year on record: 2021 Genesis Gv80 with 5 recalls.

BY YEARGv80 by model year

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