Genesis ready to shed sedan-only image, shares images of its first SUV GV80
Genesis has shared the first official images of the GV80, the first sport-utility vehicle for the brand. The much-anticipated, three-row (available) GV80 will become the fourth model in the Genesis lineup, joining the G70, G80 and G90 sedans.
Set to launch globally in 2020, GV80 will commence sales in the home market of South Korea in January. More details will be provided closer to launch.
Like its sedan siblings, GV80 willbe based on a rear-wheel-drive platform unique to the Genesis brand; all-wheel drive will be optional.
“Over the last four years, Genesis has established itself as a respected luxury brand with superior vehicle quality and a lineup of class-leading sedans withcharismatic and discriminating style," said William Lee, Executive Vice President and Global Head of the Genesis Brand. “With the launch of GV80, Genesis willelevate expectations for excellence within the luxury SUV market."
The first images of GV80, which will be supplemented in coming weeks by product details, provide a complete picture of the first SUV created by Genesis Design. Theinterior and exterior styling of GV80, a development of the GV80 Concept introduced at the 2017 New York auto show, was a collaboration between Genesis Designstudios located in South Korea, the United States and Germany.
“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.
Signature Genesis design elements are immediately visible on GV80, from every vantage point. Surrounded by the high-tech Quad Lamps, the Crest Grille emphasizesgravitas consistent with the positioning of GV80. The Parabolic Line runs smoothly along the side with precise execution, accentuated by power lines above each wheelemphasizing stance and presence.
Sang Yup Lee, Senior Vice President, Head of Genesis Design added “The Quad Lamp, our design signature, introduces an unmistakable visual impression completelyunique to Genesis."
The G-Matrix pattern that appears in light fixtures throughout the exterior, as well the design of the wheels, is inspired by beautiful orchids seen when diamondsare illuminated by light.
The interior focuses on the beauty of open space, characteristic of the elegant South Korean architectural aesthetic. Minimalism is in the details, with a commandingdriving position surrounded by high mounted control surfaces. The slim air vents stretch across the front to highlight the width of the cabin featuring minimalphysical buttons with the new touch screen climate control. The center console is equipped with a jewel-like, rotating electronic gear selector, providing anexquisite balance of simplicity and glamour.
