As Genesis gears up to launch the 2021 G80 and GV80 in the United States, it has detailed the platform used by its two new vehicles. Underpinning the G80 and GV80 is the company’s third-generation rear-wheel drive platform. By using this architecture in the GV80, Genesis was able to give the SUV a low profile, wide stance, and spacious interior.

Genesis is particularly proud of the fact that the GV80 is one of the lowest vehicles in the segment, meaning it has a low center of gravity as well as a low seating position that provides occupants with lots of headroom. Of course, the GV80 has also been designed to be exceptionally safe, hence why Genesis uses four types of steel and aluminum throughout its construction.

The use of aluminum also has the added benefit of reducing weight. According to the carmaker, the use of aluminum across the doors, hood and tailgate saves 115 kg over alternative steel components it could have used.The use of aluminum also has the added benefit of reducing weight. According to the carmaker, the use of aluminum across the doors, hood and tailgate saves 115 kg over alternative steel components it could have used.

In using its third-generation rear-wheel drive platform for the G80, Genesis has been able to increase tensile strength by 6 per cent over the previous G80. The luxury sedan also has 42 per cent more hot stamped parts than previously, including the A- and B-pillars, floor crossmembers, and rocker panels.

The 2021 Genesis G80 also uses advanced high-strength steel for the roof crossmembers, transmission tunnel, front chassis extensions and parts of the rear structure. Further improving rigidity and NVH characteristics are die-cast aluminum front and rear shock towers, an added horizontal strut brace, and a rear subframe that includes rear stays and larger bushings.

Genesis had intended to begin U.S. sales of the GV80 and G80 this summer, but due to the coronavirus pandemic, the duo have been pushed back until late fall. Prices for the GV80 start at US$ 48,900 while the G80 will be available from US$ 47,700.