TRIED AND TESTED
Genesis GV60
In the fiercely competitive EV marketplace, does the Korean brand have what it takes to stand out? By John Challen
TRIED AND TESTED
Genesis GV60
In the fiercely competitive EV marketplace, does the Korean brand have what it takes to stand out? By John Challen
Ten years after the company was established – and four years after the first of its models arrived on the UK market – Genesis has completed the revamp of its lineup. Following the recent updates to the GV70 Electrified and G80 comes the new GV60, the car that kicked things off back in 2021.
It’s fair to say that the majority of the upgrades are aesthetic and technology-led, which isn’t necessarily unusual for a Korean electric SUV of that age. At the front of the car, there is a redesigned bumper and grille, body-coloured arches and side skirts as well as new headlights – ‘Micros Lens Array (MLA) affairs this time around.
Step inside and, like other models in the updated Genesis lineup, there’s a 27-inch panoramic display, which combines the driver and central screens into one large – but very useable and clear – offering. Meanwhile, the wireless charging unit has been updated and repositioned to a more suitable location next to the central armrest and the steering wheel has undergone a makeover and adopted more of a ‘D’ shape. GV60 drivers will also benefit from new upholstery designs and colours.
As mentioned, a lot of the changes are around technology, with the electric powertrain gaining largely here. Fourth-generation battery cells mean an 84kWh capacity pack is now deployed in the car, bringing total range for the RWD Pure model up 27 miles to a theoretical 348 miles. Helping to optimise its performance, battery conditioning has been upgraded for the best charging performance in all conditions – and it can now be activated via the touchscreen and linked to the navigation.
Another upgrade is an enhanced auto mode in the smart regenerative braking technology, using live traffic and map data to adjust tracking for deceleration near speed cameras, roundabouts and speed bumps. There is still the option to select three different levels of regen, as well as i-Pedal. Finally, GV60 2026MY embraces 800V charging, helping to bring the 10%-80% charge time on an ultra-rapid DC charger down to under 20 minutes.
Away from the powertrain, new GV60 has dynamic welcome lights, upgraded lane following assist and remote smart parking assist and new opportunities for streaming the likes of Netflix and Disney+. Other enhancements include a digital centre mirror and a built-in dashcam.
There’s no escaping that if drivers choose the right spec, they will get a lot of technology and gadgets included in their GV60. Although Genesis admits that some of the features that were previously standard – such as massage seats – have moved to option packs, which has helped keep prices for the new car on a par with the first-gen model. But drivers won’t miss out as the standard equipment list is impressive, along with the overall driving experience.
Which model is right for you?
Drivers can choose from three trim levels in the GV60: Pure; Sport and Performance. All models come with a stack of ADAS technologies as standard such as smart cruise control; lane keep assist and highway driving assist. There are also numerous packs and options available, from the £580 vehicle-to-load pack, to a Nappa leather one to a choice of two innovation packs.
The Pure (priced from £54,115) features a host of standard kit such as wireless charging, heated front seats and steering wheel, 19-inch alloy wheels, fingerprint recognition and power-assisted tailgate.
Move up to the Sport and drivers get larger (20-inch) alloy wheels and a dual-motor powertrain, with prices starting at £58,515.
Topping off the range – and with prices starting from £67,715 – the Performance really does live up to its name. There’s more power, as well as a drift mode, virtual gearshift, boost mode, metal pedals and an electronic limited-slip differential. Wheels go up a size again – to 21 inches – and three of the packs – Nappa leather, comfort and innovation – come as standard.
There are a choice of 14 exterior paint options and finishes, as well as four interior colour and upholstery choices.
Pure
Sport
Performance
EXPERIENCE
Genesis GV60
VERDICT
The fact that there are very few changes to the driving experience or underpinnings of the GV60 isn’t an issue, because the original car was more than capable of delivering an enjoyable and entertaining driving experience. The upgrades in technology and innovation are welcomed and ensure that Genesis can compete in what is a very tough segment.
The Performance might be a bit pricey for some, but there is no doubt that the name fits the model. We had the opportunity to try out the car on track and, while a circuit isn’t a natural habitat for an electric SUV, it was decent – and fast – enough.
There’s no getting away from the fact that there is a lot of choice in this segment – and more and more models are arriving all the time. However, for drivers who want to stand out and live with something a bit different to the pack, the Genesis is a great fit.
