Genesis reveals its first-ever SUV

Genesis, the luxury vehicle brand of the Hyundai Motor Group, has revealed the first official pictures of its first SUV -- the GV80.

The much-awaited, three-row GV80 will become the fourth model in the Genesis line-up, joining the midsize G70, G80 and G90 sedans. Like its sedan siblings, the GV80 will be based on a rear-wheel-drive platform unique to the Genesis brand; all-wheel drive will be optional. The 'V' in the GV80 marque represents versatility, according to the carmaker.

 “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,” said William Lee, executive vice-president and global head of the Genesis Brand. “With the launch of the GV80, Genesis will elevate expectations for excellence within the luxury SUV market.”

Collaborative effort from studios in Korea, US and Germany
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. 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.

“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 the GV80. Surrounded by the high-tech quad Lamps, the crest grille emphasises gravitas consistent with the positioning of the GV80. The parabolic line runs smoothly along the side with precise execution, accentuated by power lines above each wheel.

Sang Yup Lee, senior vice-president, Head of Genesis Design, added: “The Quad Lamp, our design signature, introduces an unmistakable visual impression completely unique 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 diamonds are illuminated by light.

How is it inside?
According to the company, "The interior 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 featuring 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 glamour."

Set to be launched globally later this year, sales of the GV80 will commence in the home market of South Korea in January. 

Based in South Korea, Genesis has launched its brand in the U.S., Canada, Russia, the Middle East and Australia.

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