Genesis Shares Glimpse of First SUV
Genesis has shared the first official images of GV80, the brand’s first sport-utility vehicle. The three-row (available) GV80 will be the fourth model in the Genesis lineup, joining the G70, G80 and G90 sedans. Like its sedan siblings, GV80 will be based on a rear-wheel-drive platform unique to the Genesis brand; all-wheel drive will be optional. According to the company, the “V” in GV80 represents the versatility that only a Genesis SUV can offer.
“Over the last four years, Genesis established itself as a respected luxury brand with superior vehicle quality and a lineup of class-leading sedans with charismatic and discriminating style,” said William Lee, executive vice president, global head of the Genesis brand. “With the launch of GV80, Genesis will elevate expectations for excellence within the luxury SUV market.”
“GV80 allows us to expand our definition of Athletic Elegance design language to a new typology, while retaining sublime proportionality and sophistication of form,” said Luc Donckerwolke, executive vice president, chief design officer of Hyundai Motor Group.
The first images of GV80, which will be supplemented in coming weeks by engineering details, provide a complete picture of the first SUV created by Genesis Design. The interior and exterior styling of GV80, a development of the GV80 Concept introduced at the 2017 New York auto show, was a collaboration between Genesis Design studios located in South Korea, the United States and Germany.
Signature Genesis Design elements are immediately visible on GV80 from every vantage point. According to the company, the Crest Grille—surrounded by the high-tech Quad Lamps—emphasizes gravitas consistent with the positioning of GV80. The Parabolic Line runs smoothly along the side with precise execution, accentuated by power lines above each wheel to emphasize stance and presence.
“The Quad Lamp, our design signature, introduces an unmistakable visual impression completely unique to Genesis,” said Sang Yup Lee, senior vice president, head of Genesis Design.
The G-Matrix pattern that appears in light fixtures throughout the exterior, as well as the design of the wheels, was inspired by the beautiful orchid patterns seen when diamonds are illuminated by light.
The interior of GV80 focuses on the beauty of open space, characteristic of the elegant South Korean architectural aesthetic. Minimalism is in the details, with a commanding driving position surrounded by high-mounted control surfaces. The slim air vents stretch across the front to highlight the width of the cabin, which features minimal physical buttons with the new touch screen climate control. The center console is equipped with a jewel-like, rotating electronic gear selector, providing an exquisite balance of simplicity and glamor.
GV80 is set to launch globally this year and will commence sales in the home market of South Korea this month. More details will be provided closer to launch.
