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Genesis refreshes its flagship SUV for 2024, bringing a stunning new design and introducing an all-new Coupe variant with up to 409 horsepower on tap
by Sourav Banik on May 3, 2024, 09:54Hyundai’s luxury division, Genesis, is famous for its luxury cars that don’t demand the hefty six-digit price tags you’d expect from Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and even Lexus. Characterized by the Bentley-esque crest-shaped grille and sharp headlights, Genesis’ luxury cars provide a unique breed in the luxury niche, providing affordable choices in the premium catalog.
The GV80 is the automaker’s second most popular model after the smaller GV70. It’s based on the same platform as the Hyundai Palisade and is the Korean marque’s flagship SUV.
Following its initial success, Genesis refreshed the GV80 with a new headlight and taillight design and a new Coupe variant to compete with premium German offerings, such as the BMW X6 and Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class Coupe. The Coupe receives the biggest power bump, thanks to the e-supercharged twin-turbo V6 - a refined version of the same unit found in the G90.
While Genesis is currently coy about the price, we expect it to be approximately $60,000, with the Coupe starting at around $65,000.
With its exceptional new traits and reasonable price tag compared to its rivals, does the refreshed GV80 set a new standard for design, luxury, and performance without breaking the bank?
- A diversified engine portfolio with three choices
- Genesis finally supercharges the GV80 Coupe
- Cutting-edge suspension system and a Terrain Mode for off-roading
- The head-turning design oozes elegance
- The redesigned interior takes luxury to new heights
- Well-equipped infotainment to keep you entertained
- Plenty of modern safety features, including level-2 autonomous driving capabilities
- Conclusion
A diversified engine portfolio with three choices
- Pros
- 300-hp 2.5-liter twin-turbo engine
- 375-hp 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 shifts from 0-60 mph in 5.3 secs
- A new supercharged/twin-turbo V6 enters the lineup
- Cons
- Slower compared to rivals
- Weaker base engine
- Doesn’t offer a hybrid
Genesis revs up its latest GV80 with a diverse engine lineup to provide a selection of engines to provide both power and fuel efficiency. There’s now a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-four engine in the lower models. This pushes out 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, providing adequate power for daily needs while delivering 20 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
If you crave faster acceleration, the new 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 is now capable of 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. The engine uses a V-layout and two turbochargers, pushing out 75 horsepower and 80 pound-feet more than the turbo-four while delivering smooth acceleration and a sonorous exhaust note, something enthusiasts love about V engines.
The 2.5-liter turbo-four sends the SUV to sixty in 6.1 seconds, with a quarter-mile delivered in 14.6 seconds. However, as you likely guessed, the twin-turbo V6 is faster, taking just 5.3 seconds for 0-60 and 13.9 seconds for a quarter-mile. All three units are attached to a tried-and-tested eight-speed automatic gearbox.
Here’s how the base engine compares against the competition:
| Vehicle Name | 2025 Genesis GV80 | 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 | 2024 BMW X5 xDrive40i |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5-L turbocharged inline-four | 2.0-liter turbo inline-4 with mild hybrid | 3.0-liter turbo inline-six with mild hybrid |
| Power | 300 hp | 255 hp | 375 hp |
| Torque | 311 lb-ft | 295 lb-ft | 398 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph | 6.1 secs | 6.6 secs | 5.3 secs |
| Quarter-mile | 14.6 secs | 15.1 secs | 13.6 secs |
Genesis finally supercharges the GV80 Coupe
- Pros
- New 3.5-liter e-supercharged twin-turbo V6
- Derived from the G90 luxury sedan
- Up to 409 horsepower and 405 pound-feet
- Cons
- Lower fuel efficiency
- Rivals offer more power
- Unreliable compared to mechanical superchargers
Luxury car companies like Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, and Genesis have extensively used electric superchargers in luxury cars to mine the best performance from engines. However, unlike Ford and Dodge’s superchargers, e-superchargers are different as they use a 48-volt starter generator to mine more power. Genesis also uses the e-supercharger for the G90 flagship sedan, precisely the unit powering the GV80. This is something the GV80 truly deserved, being Genesis’ flagship SUV.
If you’re craving power, the 2025 GV80 stands apart from lower models, owing to the 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine with a 48-volt e-supercharger. With this addition, the e-supercharged/twin-turbo V6 makes up to 409 horsepower and 405 pound-feet of twist. Although Genesis hasn’t released the performance details, we expect the supercharged GV80 to reach sixty in around five seconds. Yet, Genesis stated that only the Coupe variant will get the supercharged unit.
This makes it a distinctive rival to the 455-horsepower Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid Coupe, which does the same task in around 4.7 seconds, and the 523-horsepower BMW X6 M60i xDrive, which takes roughly 4.2 seconds.
Cutting-edge suspension system and a Terrain Mode for off-roading
- Pros
- Standard all-wheel-drive system
- Terrain Mode for optimal off-road performance
- Preview-ECS with air suspension
- Cons
- Heavier curb weight can inspire body-rolls
- Larger turning radius
- No rear-wheel-steering
Irrespective of the trim you choose, you’ll obtain an all-wheel-drive system, which ensures optimal traction and control in all weather conditions by continuously monitoring road conditions and distributing power to each wheel independently to maximize grip and handling. This gives you confidence while navigating slippery roads or tackling challenging off-road terrain.
Central to the GV80’s handling is its impressive suspension technology. The standard Preview-Electronic Control Suspension (Preview-ECS) system uses data from the front camera, radar, and GPS to dynamically adjust the air suspension to adapt according to the surface type, giving you a smoother ride as you expect from a luxury car and optimizing handling to improve overall performance.
Another addition to the latest model is the electronic limited-slip rear differential, bestowing the SUV with rugged capabilities. When combined with the multi-link adaptive shocks, the E-LSD combines with a new Terrain mode to render more grip to improve handling off-roads.
The head-turning design oozes elegance
- Pros
- All-new Coupe SUV debuts for 2025
- New Crest Grille design with Two-Line Headlamps
- MLA LED headlamps
- Cons
- Can look polarizing to some buyers
- Limited color pallet
The 2025 GV80 is not just another luxury SUV; it’s a rolling work of art, demonstrating Genesis’ capabilities and commitment to making distinctive-looking vehicles. The GV80’s design is instantly recognizable as a Genesis with the iconic Crest Grille, with its intricate diamond-pattern mesh sitting proudly at the forefront, flanked by the signature two-piece LED headlights.
The two-piece headlamps do more than add aesthetics; they feature a technology lauded as Micro Lens Array (MLA), using up to 200 micro-optic lenses to add brighter light intensity and more drama. These headlights are more than just functional; they combine with the grille to form the Genesis brand logo, a subtle yet powerful statement of brand pride.
The GV80’s design language is defined by its curves that flow from the sculpted hood to the fenders; every line conveys a sense of dynamism and power. This is further emphasized by the sharp lines flowing along the sides, meeting in the distinctive taillights. These elements are more than just aesthetic; they also contribute to the GV80’s aerodynamics.
With coupe SUVs making a solid case among luxury SUVs, Genesis launched the GV80 Coupe to take on the likes of the Cayenne, GLE, and BMW X6’s coupe variants, adding a strong contender. If you crave an even sharper and more dynamic character, the GV80 Coupe is perfect. The slammed roofline combines with the sleeker profile to add more drama with optimized aerodynamics, making it a unique addition.
The redesigned interior takes luxury to new heights
- Pros
- Redesigned interior with a 27-inch OLED display
- Prime Nappa leather seats
- Ergomotion seats with HVAC and massage
- Cons
- Options significantly increase MSRP
- Cramped third-row
- Lesser headroom in the Coupe
Being Hyundai’s luxury brand, Genesis continues to showcase meticulous artistry, craftsmanship, and high comfort levels on the inside, and the GV80 certainly doesn’t disappoint. If you’re already drooling upon the curvaceous exterior, hold your laurels until you take a peek inside.
The cabin is redesigned from the ground up, and we find no similarities; the docked touchscreen and dashboard panels are replaced with an impressive, wide 27-inch OLED display, paired with a leather-adorned dashboard and chiseled AC vents.
Key touches give the interior a rich flavor, including standard aluminum garnishes with intricate patterns and optional black newspaper wood or carbon fiber trim, redefining the luxury status quo. Also, you get a mood curator, activating ambient lighting, fragrances, and seat comfort functions alongside relaxing audio to add a lounge-like experience.
The interior accommodates up to seven passengers, even if it may be a little cozy in the back. Admittedly, opting for the five-seater configuration best uses the space. You get different seating materials, from natural leather to Prime Nappa leather seats.
The cockpit features two 12-way power-adjustable HVAC seats with memory and lumbar. If you’re in the second row, heating and cooling will also be a welcome feature.
As expected from a luxury SUV, the heated console armrest and steering wheel add extra warmth in colder climates. Yet, if you crave top-notch comfort, the optional 18-way Ergo Motion seats do an excellent job of alleviating stress and fatigue.
Well-equipped infotainment to keep you entertained
- Pros
- New 27-inch OLED display
- 18-speaker B&O premium audio system
- Genesis Car Pay, wireless phone integration
The GV80 does not compromise on luxury or technology. One of the cabin’s most exciting upgrades must be the new 27-inch OLED dashboard screen, which seamlessly integrates a fully digital instrument cluster and a wide infotainment screen underneath. Below is a control panel with button and touch controls and an integrated screen tilted 45 degrees for easier access.
The infotainment system offers wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and AR navigation, providing you with a dynamic level of navigation. The infotainment system also brings Genesis Car Pay, which lets you quickly pay for different services and a head-up display.
If you’re an audiophile, the nine-speaker audio set might be adequate, but you’ll want to consider the optional 18-speaker B&O audio system for the ultimate sound experience. In the rear, two more 14.6-inch touchscreens and a touchscreen-based climate control system are on offer.
Plenty of modern safety features, including level-2 autonomous driving capabilities
- Pros
- Level-2 autonomous driving with HDA 2
- Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control
- A bevy of driver-assist features
- Cons
- Doesn’t get Level-3 autonomous driving
- HDA 2 is optional
The redesigned GV80 features advanced safety and driver assist technologies, taking a step closer to the future of driving. While it may not be fully self-driving, its advanced driver-assistance features make cruising down the highway a breeze and offer a glimpse into the future of autonomous driving.
The GV80 also has an optional Highway Driving Assist 2 feature, adding level-2 autonomous driving capabilities through navigation-based Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go function. This feature uses radars and camera data with GPS to accelerate and decelerate automatically, providing a hands-free driving experience.
You also get forward collision-avoidance assistance with lane maintenance functions, which can be crucial while driving on highways. The blind-spot collision avoidance assist notifies you of other vehicles in the areas you can’t see.
Genesis is repeatedly testing Level-3 autonomous driving capabilities through LiDAR technologies to step into the hands-free driving niche. Therefore, we may soon see the GV80 getting Level-3 technology. For now, you get the Level-2 system, or you could consider the Mercedes-AMG GLE class, which offers Level-3 self-driving with the optional Driver Assistance Package.
Conclusion
Looking at its long list of merits, it’s clear the GV80 is a well-equipped luxury SUV and thoroughly deserves the throne of the best Genesis SUV to date. It possesses the power and handling to cater to a fantastic driving experience with an interior bonkers in terms of luxury.
It’s also practical, with a spacious cargo trunk and space for seven. Moreover, the GV80 performed well in the IIHS safety tests, bagging the Top Safety Pick+ title. All these make it a great contender.
Admittedly, there is still room for improvement. The GV80 is slower than rivals such as the AMG GLE-class, BMW X6 M60i, and Porsche Cayenne hybrid. Moreover, the new Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride provide great alternatives if you wish for something cheaper that can still render respectable levels of luxury.
FAQs
What’s new for the 2025 Genesis GV80?
The 2025 GV80 receives notable updates, including a revised grille, new headlights and taillights, a larger touchscreen infotainment system, and a new supercharged twin-turbo V6 engine option.
When will the 2025 GV80 be available?
The 2025 GV80 is expected to arrive at dealerships in early 2024.
Does the 2025 GV80 have good handling?
The 2025 GV80 is praised for its comfortable and composed handling, thanks to its multi-link and available electronically controlled suspension.
What technology features are available in the 2025 GV80?
The 2025 GV80 comes standard with a 27-inch OLED touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an 18-speaker audio system, and a suite of driver-assistance features.
Does the 2025 GV80 have self-driving capabilities?
No, the 2025 GV80 does not have self-driving capabilities. However, it offers advanced driver-assistance features (ADAS) that fall under Level 2 autonomy, such as Highway Driving Assist 2 and Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go.
How did the GV80 perform in safety tests?
The 2023 GV80 received five stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS.
What are the differences between the GV80 and the GV80 Coupe?
Aside from the design differences, the GV80 Coupe offers a firmer suspension setup for better handling and is only available with the supercharged V6 engine.
How does the 2025 GV80 compare to its competitors?
The 2025 GV80 competes with luxury SUVs like the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE, and Audi Q7. Its competitive pricing, luxurious interior, and advanced technology features stand out.
What is the seating capacity of the 2025 Genesis GV80?
The 2025 Genesis GV80 can seat up to seven passengers.
What’s new for the 2025 GV80 Coupe?
The 2025 GV80 Coupe is a new addition to the GV80 lineup for 2025. It has a sleeker, more aerodynamic design than the standard GV80, with a sloping roofline and 22-inch wheels.
GENESIS UNVEILS FIRST-EVER GV80 COUPE AND NEW GV80 SUV FOR NORTH AMERICAN MARKET
New 2025 GV80 Coupe and 2025 GV80 to enter North American market in 2024
Today, Genesis unveiled the first-ever 2025 GV80 Coupe and the new 2025 GV80 SUV at an exclusive North American debut event in Los Angeles.
Garnering worldwide attention since the reveal of the GV80 Coupe Concept in New York City this April, the GV80 Coupe effortlessly maximizes utility and sportiness with a distinctive design package, encompassing a dynamic exterior and a sporty, high-tech interior, complemented by a 3.5-liter gasoline turbo 48V electric supercharger (e-S/C) engine.
The newly redesigned GV80 brings its first model change in over three years, featuring a comprehensive interior redesign. The model promises an elevated in-car experience with new convenience features for enhanced comfort and safety.
“The addition of the sporty Coupe to the GV80 family brings a new expression of athleticism and invigorating performance to the Genesis lineup,” said José Muñoz, president and CEO of Genesis Motor North America and president and global chief operating officer of Hyundai Motor Company. “Both the new SUV and Coupe models bring refined performance and bold design to the portfolio, each with their own distinct character for customers to choose.”
GV80 Coupe: Practicality and Sportiness Meet to Define Athletic Elegance
The highly anticipated unveiling of the GV80 Coupe adds a new facet to the Genesis brand, emphasizing a fusion of practicality and sportiness.
The GV80 Coupe combines the practicality of an SUV, inheriting the design and performance of the base model, with the dynamism of a coupe. The introduction of the GV80 Coupe reaffirms Genesis’ commitment to delivering cars with exceptional performance and emotional appeal.
The exterior creates a high-performance image, boasting an elegant yet daring silhouette, featuring the MLA-powered LED headlamps and double-layered Crest Grille like the redesigned GV80 SUV.
When viewed from the side, the arch-shaped Parabolic Line spanning the body and the low, sloping roofline strike a perfect harmony, completing the strong and dynamic exterior design. Adding to its sporty profile, the GV80 Coupe grabs attention with Coupe-exclusive 20- and 22-inch wheels with distinctive spokes.
At the rear, the GV80 Coupe features a unique design with LED surface-emitting rear combination lamps and a wide integrated auxiliary brake light on the tailgate. A centrally descending rear spoiler adds a sporty touch.
GV80 Coupe: Coupe-specific sporty design package
The interior of the GV80 Coupe captures a sporty sensibility with a design unique to a coupe.
The two-tone D-cut steering wheel reinforces its driving dynamics and maintains an elegant interior image. Available unique carbon garnish patterns and seats with coupe-exclusive patterns and stitching further contribute to the refined design.
To minimize the risk of slipping during operation and to maximize high-performance sensibility, metal accents were added on the brake and accelerator pedals.
GV80 SUV: Refined Exterior Design
The redesigned GV80 elevates the experience for drivers and passengers alike with new enhancements throughout the exterior.
The GV80’s front includes a newly designed Two-Line Crest Grille and the signature Two-Line headlamps. The Crest Grille refines the model’s elegance with smoother corner lines, and the sleek design of the Two-Line headlamps, made possible with MLA (Micro Lens Array) technology[i], emphasizing Genesis’ commitment to state-of the-art technology and design excellence.
The GV80’s robust and athletic SUV persona is accentuated with design elements such as larger air intakes and a wide skid plate design on the front bumper, while the Guilloché-patterned emblem adds an elegant finishing touch to the SUV.
Along the exterior, a new chrome trim extends seamlessly through the sides, exuding a powerful presence from the front to rear bumper.
Two reinvented wheel designs contribute to GV80’s solid and refined character. The 20-inch design creates a multi-spoke look by intersecting two different spokes with distinct finishings, and the 22-inch option reinterprets the Two-Line design.
At the rear, the muffler tips hidden in the bumper elevate GV80’s sophistication. Key elements of the Genesis design language add to the model’s image with distinctive V-shape chrome trim inspired by the iconic Crest Grille. The lower part of the bumper imparts a sense of stability with its bold body-colored line.
GV80 SUV: Elegant Interior with High-Tech Sensibility in the Beauty of White Space
The interior of the new GV80 accentuates Genesis’ design ethos of Beauty of White Space while incorporating new technologies to create a sophisticated ambiance.
A 27-inch-wide OLED display integrates the multimedia screen, exemplifying the harmony in the combination of a high-tech device with details with its horizontal layout.
Seamless design extends to the center fascia, with the touch-based HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) system thoughtfully offers drivers with ease of control.
The redesigned crystal-like Shift-by-Wire (SBW) ensures a comfortable grip.
Quality materials and design enhancements add to GV80’s overall elegance, with elements comprising of horn covers with the new Genesis emblem and available two-tone-colored steering wheels, an improved pedal design, and a center console featuring authentic materials.
Furthermore, Genesis has accommodated consumer needs with a redesigned wireless smartphone charging tray that enables more convenient charging and provides improved visibility of the phone while it’s charging, an enlarged console cup holder, and a knob-type volume/tune adjustment button.
Power and Performance
The GV80 SUV will be equipped with two powertrain options: a gasoline 2.5L I-4 turbo engine, which delivers a robust 300 horsepower, and a gasoline 3.5L twin turbo engine, which produces a maximum output of 375 horsepower. The GV80 Coupe will offer two engine choices, including the gasoline 3.5L V6 Twin Turbo with 48V electric supercharger (e-S/C), featuring a robust 409 horsepower.
Further details regarding the upcoming 2025 GV80 SUV and GV80 Coupe’s North American availability, specifications, and pricing will be announced in 2024.
Sourav Banik
Sourav is either writing or pondering about pickup trucks. Meanwhile, he's daydreaming about Lexus and JDMs. Read full bio
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