Genesis’ first SUV, the GV80, is currently
undergoing testing ahead of its launch later this year. For the second time this summer,
our photographers have spotted a prototype in Europe — more specifically,
Germany. The BMW X5 rival is still completely covered in camouflage and fabric
that hides padding here and there.
However, a closer look reveals new details on the
big luxury SUV, chief of which are the production headlights and taillights. We
already know that the Genesis GV80 will adopt many of the styling cues
presented on the namesake concept last year and it appears the lights are among
those.
The horizontal taillights consisting of two parallel
elements appear very similar to the GV80 Concept’s, and the same thing could be
said about the headlights. However, we can only see one element of the
headlights so we’re on the field of speculation here. Moving on, the
proportions seem inspired by the concept vehicle as well, as does the
pentagonal crest grille. The camouflage can’t hide the fact that the GV80 is
one imposing SUV.
The interior will be heavily influenced by the GV80
Concept and will be designed according to Genesis’ philosophy of
“human-centered luxury”. Older spy photos that we included in this new gallery
have revealed similar steering wheel, center console including a round glass
touchpad, and dashboard layout.
Since Genesis aims to compete with the Audi Q7, BMW
X7, and Mercedes-Benz GLE, among other rivals from Japan and the United States,
the GV80 is expected to use the same RWD/AWD platform from the upcoming G80
executive sedan.
In theory, the engine choices should be the same but
recent reports claim only the 365 hp 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6 will be offered as
the 420 hp 5.0-liter V8 is deemed too excessive for some markets – and will be
ditched by the redesigned G80 anyway.
