Genesis GV60
In the beginning, there was Genesis. The midsize Hyundai Genesis sedan, that is. The four-door debuted in 2007 as the Korean carmaker’s first entry into the luxury market. By 2017, the nameplate morphed into a stand-alone brand marque and has been rolling out compelling new highline models ever since. Among the newest and most notable is the GV60, an all-electric SUV that should get those intent on buying an EV thinking twice about a Tesla.
It offers good performance, ride and handling, a distinctive exterior design and a truly luxurious and high-touch interior. High-tech introductions include a smart app and facial- and fingerprint-recognition systems that let you drive without a key.
The Advance model, with 314 hp and all-wheel drive, is the entry level (starting at $60,385). But the SUV’s real contender comes with the Performance package ($68,290, fully loaded). Its twin motors hammer out 429 hp and 446 pound-feet of torque—enough to hit 60 mph in four seconds. Tapping the boost button yields a 15-second burst of additional power that will have you sinking deep into its plush driver’s seat.
GV60 uses a skateboard-like platform with its batteries and motors mounted below the load floor, which gives it a low center of gravity, despite its 4,900 pounds. That translates into a nimble driving experience, even as tested through the twisty canyons of Malibu. The layout also frees up space normally devoted to an engine compartment, yielding a surprisingly roomy interior for both front and back passengers.
The cabin itself is lavishly appointed using vegan leather and other recycled materials. Designers went for a “warm digital” theme, starting with a dual wide-screen display covering two thirds of the instrument panel. An additional screen operates the climate controls. One of GV60’s most intriguing—if gimmicky—features is its “crystal sphere,” a laser-etched orb that glows when you enter the SUV. Power up and it rolls over, revealing the GV60’s shifter. It changes hues depending upon what driving mode you shift into.
At a maximum 248 miles on a charge, the Genesis GV60 could do with a bit more range, though that will be enough for most users, especially considering its 800-volt electrical system charges up fast—reaching 80 percent on a public charger in as little as 18 minutes.
