It was a magical evening at the prestigious Genesis House for an exclusive Genesis GV80 Coupe Concept reveal during NY International Auto Show media days. The 4-passenger Coupe Concept adds a new dimension to the Genesis portfolio with dynamic lines, sporty attributes, performance engineering, and luxury amenities. The goal of the Korean automaker is to continue expanding its luxury roster to meet the diverse needs and evolving desires of automotive enthusiasts.
Based on the current Genesis GV80 platform and motivated by the X Speedium Coupe Concept, shown in NY last year, the GV80 Coupe Concept commingles the utility of a traditional SUV and the driving signature of dynamic coupes. With 800,000 units sold worldwide over the company’s 7-year existence (56,410 in the US in 2022); 100 standalone Genesis retailers in the works; and new burgeoning partnerships such as the Genesis Open, the brand is constantly in a state of proliferation. Hence, the Athletic Elegance manta is eminently defined with the release of the GV80 Coupe Concept.
“At its inception, the Genesis brand began creating luxury sedans, which evolved into the G70, G80, and G90 models,” said Luc Donckerwolke. “Over the past seven years, we have added more lifestyle-oriented models to the portfolio, such as our GV80 and GV70 SUVs. Now we are pushing the envelope with more emotional cars that elevate Genesis’ performance and dynamic attributes.”
From a design perspective, the GV80 Coupe Concept portrays a black Double G-Matrix Patterned Crest Grille surrounded by horizontal quad headlights, muscular fenders, 5-spoke forged aluminum rims, a carbon fiber roof (reduces overall weight), an upper rear spoiler and spoiler lip, and seamless Two Lines signature taillamps. This aligns with the unique and authentic offerings at the Genesis House, where you can have a delectable Korean meal, read historical and design books, or view the array of Genesis vehicles on display. And if you happen to live in Hudson Yards, scheduling a Genesis vehicle to move around in Manhattan comes at no cost.
The vibrant orangish color of the GV80 Coupe Concept is dubbed Magma, inspired by the brand’s Distinctly Korean ethos to signify the confidence and passion of Korean citizens. Inside, the vehicle balances Genesis’ elegant Beauty of White Space viewpoints and athletic characteristics. Drivers will integrate with the cockpit through a 3-spoke steering wheel, contrasting black Nappa and suede leather with double plaid stitching, orange piping, carbon fiber weaves on the functional surfaces, and four bucket seats with carbon fiber backrests.
With an emergent range of award-winning models such as the 2023 Motor Trend Car of the Year G90, the GV60 German Premium Car of the Year 2023, the GV80 2022 IIHS Top Safety Pick, and GV70 2022 Motor Trend SUV of the Year, Genesis is also seeking to lead the age of electrification with battery EVs. So let’s see – hopefully — if the GV80 Coupe Concept comes to fruition in the near future!
“We are pleased to announce that our first U.S.-assembled model has begun to arrive at retailers in 15 states,” said Claudia Marquez, chief operating officer of Genesis Motor North America. “The launch of the Electrified GV70 is a significant moment for the brand as we continue to grow our EV lineup for American customers.”
The small Korean hatchback looks good, feels good, and engages on the road. A glass Vision Roof with power shades, distinguished 21” alloy rims wrapped in Michelin Primacy Tour tires, gorgeous Uyuni White paint, a tailgate spoiler, and funky headlights add to the GV60’s allure. Power is produced from the front and rear electric motors (160 kW each) to instill the 2023 Genesis GV60 Advanced AWD with 314 horsepower and a whopping 429 horsepower for the GV60 Performance AWD model. Its multifunction steering wheel is enhanced with Boost Mode, akin to launch control for super excited takeoffs. My passengers started screaming when I catapulted us like rocks from slingshots a few times. Two paddle shifters on the right and left allow you to engage and disengage 1-pedal driving, which helps with regenerative braking.