Genesis has officially launched GV80, its first sport-utility vehicle. GV80 introduces a variety of firsts for the Genesis brand, including a six-cylinder diesel (Not available in the US Market), electronically controlled suspension with road preview, and Road Active Noise Cancellation. The launch event and media test drive took place at the Korea International Exhibition Center (KINTEX) west of Seoul. The GV80 SUV joins the lineup alongside the G70, G80 and G90 sedans with more than a common thread of design identity. The interior and exterior styling of GV80 was the result of 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. The Crest Grille 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 emphasizing stance and presence. The Quad Lamps, which flank the Crest Grille, are made possible with sophisticated lighting technology. The G-Matrix pattern that appears in light fixtures throughout the exterior is inspired by beautiful orchids seen when diamonds are illuminated by light. The pattern also appears on the available 22-inch wheels. The body structure of GV80 is enhanced with hot-stamped, high-strength steel, as well as lightweight aluminum used on the doors, hood, and tailgate that allow it to achieve competitive curb weight.

The interior of GV80 focuses on “the beauty of white space,” characteristic of the elegant South Korean architectural philosophy. The concept of “luxury in space” defines the open feeling of the cabin of GV80, with the G-Matrix pattern as a motif. The width of the interior of GV80 was emphasized through the design of sleek, thin air vents that run across the passenger compartment. A 14.5-inch, split-screen infotainment display sits front and center atop the dashboard. The number of hard buttons and switches was intentionally kept to a minimum, both for aesthetic purposes and ease of use.

In up-level variants, soft materials cover every surface, from the inside of the door handles to the quilted knee pads that line the lower sides of the console. The ornate center control unit on the center console covers an electronic, shift-by-wire transmission base with a dial-style shift. Handwriting recognition through the Genesis Integrated Controller helps users set a destination or enter data without having to operate a keyboard on the navigation screen—simply by using handwritten letters on the writing recognition control system.

As an authentic Genesis, GV80 is based on a unique rear-wheel-drive platform; all-wheel drive is optional. GV80 will launch in the home market of South Korea with a Genesisexclusive, 274 BHP 3.0-liter six-cylinder diesel engine. Maximum torque is 588 Nm (Not available in the US Market.). When equipped as a five-seat model with 19-inch wheels, the rear-wheel-drive diesel GV80 variant returns 11.8 km/l. Two turbocharged gasoline engines will be available in the GV80 in the US Market.

GV80 models equipped with all-wheel drive in the US Market will feature an electronically controlled Limited Slip Differential at the rear axle. Electronically controlled suspension with road preview, another Genesis first, helps provide passengers with optimal ride comfort by recognizing information on the road ahead in advance via the front camera. GV80 also includes 10 standard airbags, including a center-mounted airbag between the front occupants to mitigate the interior impact.