After seeing spy photos and a near-production concept emerge earlier this year, the covers have finally come off the first-ever Genesis GV80 Coupe.
Headlining a major mid-life update for the Korean luxury brand’s large family SUV that’s due to launch in Australia in the second quarter of next year, the 2024 Genesis GV80 Coupe is aimed squarely at the BMW X6 and Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe with sportier, slope-backed looks than its wagon-bodied sibling and a driving demeanour to match.
Lurking under the bonnet of the GV80 Coupe is an uprated version of the 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6, which is boosted by a 48V electric supercharger to produce 305kW and 549Nm of torque – up 26kW/19Nm over the current powerplant, which continues in the wagon.
The 224kW/422Nm 2.5-litre four-cylinder turbo also carries over unchanged.
As well as the higher output that puts the 320kW/520Nm Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe on notice, the V6-powered GV80 Coupe also features a Sports+ drive mode and launch control system.
An eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive system continue, and while performance figures have not been divulged, we expect the V6 Coupe to dispatch 0-100km/h in less than five seconds.
There’s no word yet on suspension modifications for the new flagship – the camera-based Preview Electronic Control Suspension continues, scanning the road ahead and altering the damping rate accordingly – but Genesis has confirmed the V6 Coupe will come standard with a sports-themed Active Sound Design system and customisable brake pedal response.
Inside, there’s a dedicated performance-focused display for the digital instrument cluster, a two-toned flat-bottom steering wheel, reclining rear seats and ‘carbon garnish’ upholstery and other unique materials.
The remainder of the package largely mirrors that of the facelifted GV80 wagon, which has a sharper look that better fits the brand’s ‘Athletic Elegance’ design mantra.
The cabin is now dominated by a 27-inch OLED screen containing both the digital instrument cluster and infotainment display. It makes for a cleaner and more sophisticated look, pairing neatly with a revised dash layout and centre console.
Genesis says the GV80’s driver assist systems have been upgraded for faster responses, improved detection capabilities and more refined intervention as required.
These include the crosswind stabilisation system and Auto Terrain Mode that uses artificial intelligence to assess road conditions and automatically engage the appropriate driving mode.
Other equipment highlights include up to four-zone climate control, fingerprint authentication system, UVC disinfection trays, heated arm rests, touch-based handle sensors, an on-board fragrance system, digital rear-view mirror, 14.6-inch rear seat display and a Bang & Olufsen premium sound system.
Australian pricing and specification details for both the GV80 Coupe and wagon will be announced closer to launch next year, but it’s safe to say the upgrades will bring a bump in prices.