Genesis is gearing up to introduce its first
crossover later this year and spy photographers have caught the 2020 GV80
undergoing cold weather testing. Previewed by the GV80 concept, the production model will be a
mid-sized crossover that will compete with rivals such as the BMW X5 and
Mercedes GLE.
While the prototype is heavily camouflaged, we can
see the model will have a prominent “crest” grille which is similar to the one
used on the 2020 G90. The camouflage also suggests the crossover will have quad
headlights just like the concept.
Moving further back, the GV80 features a long hood
and a gently sloping roof. The crossover also has slender roof rails,
traditional side mirrors and large five-spoke alloy wheels that are wrapped in
Michelin tires. Despite some attempts to disguise the greenhouse, previous spy
photos have already revealed the production model will have an angular third
quarter windows.There isn’t much to see out back, but the GV80 has a
dual exhaust system and what appears to be plastic body cladding on the lower
bumper. We can also get a glimpse of the crossover’s taillights and large rear
window.
Genesis’ concept model not only previewed the
exterior appearance of the GV80, but up to a point, the interior as well. As
you can see from these images, despite the extensive zebra-cladding, we can
still make the connections to the study. Of course, it won’t be as flashy or
extreme, but the basic dashboard layout, as well as some other elements like
the steering wheel shape and the wide LED screen above the center console, will
be maintained in a more consumer-friendly way.
Another detail worth mentioning is that even the
knurled metal wheel that surrounds a round glass touchpad for the infotainment
system and which on the concept, supported tapping, swiping and pinching
gestures, has made it to the production prototype.
Genesis has been tight-lipped about the GV80, but
the model is expected to ride on the same rear-wheel drive platform that
underpins the redesigned G80 sedan. Aside from all-wheel drive, the crossover
is also slated to have an assortment of different engines including a V6 and a
V8. There’s no specifics at this point, but Genesis already offers a twin-turbo
3.3-liter V6 with 365 hp and a 5.0-liter V8 that develops 420
hp, so expect to see both of them on the SUV. As with other Genesis models, we
expect the GV80 to be offered at much lower prices than its European rivals,
with the V6 model to likely start well under US$ 50,000.
