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2021 Genesis GV80 Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ryan Davis·4 Critical Recalls
2021 Genesis GV80 Report

Overall Score

6.3/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2021 Genesis GV80's reliability is rated below average, with significant concerns centered on the fuel/propulsion system and engine.
  • Owners report issues with forward collision avoidance warnings and exterior lighting, the latter often due to moisture ingress.
  • Despite a high number of recalls (24), the vehicle achieved an excellent overall NHTSA safety rating of 5/5.
  • The 3.5L V6 engine requires premium fuel, contributing to higher running costs.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2021 Genesis GV80

The 2021 Genesis GV80 arrived as a bold statement in the luxury SUV segment, blending distinctive styling with a premium interior. Under the hood, it features a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, delivering respectable performance. Its EPA estimated fuel economy is 18 mpg city and 23 mpg highway. However, for used-car shoppers, the GV80's first model year is marked by a significant number of recalls (24) and complaints (73), particularly concerning its fuel and propulsion systems, engine, and electrical components. These issues, alongside frequent reports of exterior lighting failures, cast a shadow over its otherwise strong safety ratings (5/5 overall).

Critical Failure Risk

Complaints indicate issues with the fuel system, including potential fuel leaks and fuel pump failures leading to loss of power. Some owners report fuel doors getting stuck. Recalls have addressed fuel pump and fuel line components.

Early detection can help you avoid a $800-$2,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls24
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

73
Fuel/Propulsion System9
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
20
MPG
City
18
MPG
Highway
23
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

6.5/ 10

Practicality

3.7/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Discerning buyers who prioritize distinctive luxury styling and a comfortable ride.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a low-maintenance, worry-free ownership experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2021 Genesis GV80 Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Genesis GV80.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
20

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Fuel System

Most reported

Usage: 9 reports

2. FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: WARNINGS

Usage: 8 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Cabin Air Filter Replacement

Est. shop cost: $150 - $250

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
24 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2021 Genesis GV80 reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Genesis GV80 is 6.5/10. Reliability score is 6.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 24. Owner complaints: 73.

How practical is the 2021 Genesis GV80 for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 3.7/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 20 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2021 Genesis GV80?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Genesis GV80 is 6.3/10. Overall score is 6.3/10 (Mixed). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.6/10. Practicality 3.7/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 Genesis GV80?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Cabin Air Filter Replacement at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $500. Repair prediction highlight: Fuel Pump (typical at 70,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,500).

What engine is in the 2021 Genesis GV80?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.5.

What transmission does the 2021 Genesis GV80 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Genesis GV80, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2021 GV80 require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Genesis GV80?▾

EPA combined estimate is 20 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Genesis GV80?▾

15 standard and 1 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2021 Genesis GV80?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Genesis GV80, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2021 Genesis GV80?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Genesis GV80, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2021 Genesis GV80 use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Genesis GV80, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 Genesis GV80?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

What are the most common fuel/propulsion system problems on the 2021 Genesis GV80?▾

Top complaint category: fuel/propulsion system (9 reports, 12.3% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2021 Genesis GV80?▾

This model year has 24 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2021 Genesis GV80?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2021 BMW X5 and 2021 Audi Q7.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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