Genesis GV80 unveiled as brand’s first ever SUV

This is the Genesis GV80 – the South Korean luxury brand’s first ever SUV. Tipped to arrive in Australia in the middle of this year, the GV80 is a full size SUV offering up to three rows of seating and underpinned by a rear biased all-wheel drive system for sporty handling.

Genesis global executive vice president William Lee said the GV80 will “elevate expectations for excellence within the luxury SUV market.”

“Over the last four years, Genesis has established itself as a respected luxury brand with superior vehicle quality and a line-up of class-leading sedans with charismatic and discriminating style,” he said.

The Genesis GV80 will compete against the likes of BMW X5, Audi Q7, Range Rover Sport and Mercedes-Benz GLE.

Hyundai’s luxury arm has not toned down on the GV80 Concept that was unveiled at the 2017 New York Auto Show, styling the production model with the same large front grille and quad headlights. The concept’s purposeful lower front bumper chin has also made it to production, giving the large SUV a menacing look up front.

The swooping roof line adds to the GV80’s sportiness, complemented by sleek parabolic lines running down the side of the body.

Already received praises for his work on the Genesis G70 sports sedan, Hyundai global executive vice president and chief design officer Luc Donckerwolke said the GV80 allowed the company to expand its “definition of Athletic Elegance design language to a new typology, while retaining sublime proportionality and sophistication of form.”

The smooth execution of the exterior is mirrored inside the cabin, with the dashboard adopting a minimalist approach for a clutter free design. With only a handful of buttons is in view, the majority of functions is expected to be operated from the ultra-wide centre infotainment screen, as well as the fully digital instrumentation cluster.

If the Genesis G70 and G80 are of any indication, expect premium materials to adorn the cabin and solid build quality.

Full pricing and specification of the Genesis GV80 will be announced closer to local launch this year.