[Test Drive] Genesis GV80, a 'Luxury SUV' That Captures Both Design and Performance

Published 21 Nov.2020 08:00(KST)

3.5 Gasoline Turbo Engine, Solid Performance Despite Large Body

GV80 (Photo by Genesis)

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Ji-hee] The GV80 is a turning point model for the Genesis brand. Last year, Genesis sales were around 56,000 units, but by October this year, sales grew to 86,517 units, bringing the brand close to achieving 100,000 units annually. At the heart of this remarkable growth is the success of the brand's first sport utility vehicle (SUV), the GV80. Launched in January this year, the GV80 sold 27,487 units in just 10 months, establishing itself as Genesis's new volume model.

Although more than 10 months have passed since its launch, the GV80's popularity continues. While not as intense as in the beginning, there is still a waiting period from contract to delivery. On the 10th, I test-drove the GV80 to directly experience the secret behind its popularity. The model tested was the 3.5 gasoline turbo version.

The first impression of the GV80 is a series of surprises in many aspects. Seeing the GV80 parked for the first time, I was overwhelmed by its size, thinking, "Was it this big?" The GV80's body measures 4,945mm in length, 1,975mm in width, and 1,715mm in height, which is only 40mm shorter in length and 10mm narrower in width compared to Hyundai's large SUV Palisade. The grille that fills the front further accentuates the GV80's imposing presence. Additionally, the now-familiar two-line headlamp design completes a simple yet luxurious look. The side profile features a roofline similar to a coupe, emphasizing elegance.

Hyundai Motor Group's luxury brand Genesis has officially launched its first SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle), the 'GV80'. On the 15th, Hyundai Motor Group held a new car launch event at KINTEX in Goyang, Gyeonggi Province, and began official sales. The photo shows the interior of the GV80. / Goyang - Photo by Kim Hyun-min kimhyun81@

The interior uses premium materials tastefully, giving a sophisticated feel. The 14.5-inch display on the top of the dashboard houses numerous advanced features of the GV80, minimizing the number of control buttons on the center fascia. At times, touching the display caused some discomfort as the top of the dashboard would touch the palm, but using the handwriting-style integrated controller located below was convenient.

The second-row space is also exceptionally luxurious. Notably, like the front seats, the backrest angle can be adjusted electrically, which is a standout feature. However, a downside is that the legroom is not as spacious as expected. Perhaps due to the large body raising expectations, sitting in the second row felt slightly cramped.

GV80 (Photo by Genesis)

Starting the drive in earnest, I tested the 3.5 gasoline turbo engine. This engine delivers a powerful output of 380 horsepower and a maximum torque of 54 kgf·m. Despite the large body and weight of 2.2 tons, the GV80 demonstrated satisfactory performance in any driving environment. Even when exceeding 100 km/h, there was no struggle to increase speed as desired. While it doesn't accelerate sharply, the solid movement seemed to enhance the GV80's appeal as a premium model. Quickly turning the steering wheel left and right, the vehicle maintained stable driving without body sway, showing a firm foundation.

One particularly satisfying aspect is the quietness. Thanks to laminated glass and active noise cancellation technology, noise and vibration inside the cabin are barely noticeable even at high speeds.

Advanced features also stand out. Using Highway Driving Assist (HDA) and Smart Cruise Control, the vehicle can autonomously maintain lane position and distance from the car ahead, and even change lanes.