In the fiercely competitive world of luxury SUVs, the market is largely a battleground dominated by German giants—BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi. These brands have established a near-unshakeable presence, each new model almost guaranteed to cement their status at the top. So when Genesis, Hyundai’s luxury offshoot, entered the scene, there was understandable skepticism. Could a relatively young brand, with roots far from the European heartlands of luxury, really challenge the established order?
Genesis has been methodically building its case, vehicle by vehicle, and the GV80 SUV was a pivotal moment. Introduced in 2020, it wasn’t just another SUV; it was a clear message that Genesis intended to be taken seriously. The GV80 quickly became the flagship of the Genesis lineup, praised for its design and technology, but as with any new entrant, it had to work hard to prove itself.
Now, the brand takes an even bolder step with the GV80 Coupe, a variant that seeks to blend the practicality of an SUV with the sporty allure of a coupe. It’s an intriguing proposition, but the real question is whether this new model can offer more than just visual drama. With a weekend road test planned, I was keen to find out if the GV80 Coupe was just another contender or if it had the substance to back up its style.
First Impressions: Exterior Design
On first glance, the GV80 Coupe certainly makes a statement. The front end, dominated by Genesis’ Crest Grille and flanked by LED headlights, is as aggressive as it is distinctive. It’s clear that Genesis wanted to create something that stood out, and in that respect, they’ve succeeded. The sloping roofline and coupe-like silhouette are executed with a deft touch, creating a design that’s both eye-catching and well-proportioned. It’s almost as if Bentley and Aston Martin had a lovechild—there’s an undeniable hint of British luxury in the way the lines flow, particularly in profile.
The Storr Green paint on the test vehicle added another layer of intrigue. It’s a handsome color, subtle yet striking, and it shifts dramatically depending on the lighting conditions. In the early morning light, it has a muted, almost understated elegance, but as the day progresses, the green takes on richer, deeper tones, giving the GV80 Coupe a chameleon-like quality. It’s the kind of color that not only catches the eye but also holds it, inviting closer inspection.
The wheels, too, are worth mentioning. At 22 inches, they’re large enough to assert the GV80’s presence on the road, yet their design is refined, with a dark matte finish that complements the vehicle’s overall aesthetic. They strike a balance between sporty aggression and luxury, albeit at the cost of some driving comfort.
However, there’s a fine line between bold and overdone. The GV80 Coupe’s design toes this line with elements like the rear spoiler, which, while intended to underscore its sporty credentials, may come off as a bit heavy-handed for some. But there’s no denying that the GV80 Coupe is a vehicle that turns heads, regardless of context.
Inside the Cabin: A Mix of Luxury and Practicality
Stepping into the GV80 Coupe, the first impression is one of meticulous craftsmanship. The cabin is undoubtedly luxurious, with quilted Nappa leather seats and real carbon fiber trim exclusive to this model. The 27-inch OLED display that integrates the instrument cluster and infotainment system is a highlight, offering sharp visuals and an intuitive user experience.
The attention to detail in the GV80 Coupe’s interior is evident, from the finely stitched leather to the use of high-quality materials throughout. The seats, for instance, are not only heated and ventilated but also come with a massage function—features that elevate the driving experience, especially on longer journeys.
Yet, the interior doesn’t quite escape the shadow of its more established rivals. While the overall build quality is excellent, with everything feeling solid and well-assembled, the design occasionally feels like it’s trying too hard to stand out. The contrast stitching and bold color options, such as the red or orange seat belts, add flair, but they might not resonate with buyers seeking a more classic luxury feel. It’s as if Genesis wanted to inject a bit of youthful exuberance into a market segment that often favors subtlety—a gamble that might not appeal to everyone.
On the practical side, the GV80 Coupe delivers where it counts. The flat-bottom steering wheel is a nice touch, and the ergonomic layout ensures that all controls are within easy reach. Comfort is also a strong point—whether navigating city streets or cruising on road trips, the entire cabin is luscious place to inhabit.
Tech and Features: Luxury or Gimmick?
In terms of technology, the GV80 Coupe doesn’t hold back. The 18-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system is impressive, providing a rich audio experience that can transform any drive into a personal concert. The Fingerprint Recognition system is another standout feature, allowing for personalized settings with just a touch.
However, the question arises—are these features truly enhancing the driving experience, or are they merely novelties? The Digital Centre Mirror (DCM) is useful, particularly in poor weather, but one has to wonder if a traditional mirror might suffice just as well for most situations. Similarly, while the UV-C Sterilization compartment offers peace of mind, its practical benefits may be marginal for many drivers.
The GV80 Coupe also comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, from Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA 2) to Forward Collision Avoidance Assist 2 (FCA 2). These systems work seamlessly and add a layer of confidence, particularly on long drives, but they are features that have become expected rather than exceptional in this segment.
Driving Dynamics: A Balance of Power and Comfort?
Under the hood, the GV80 Coupe is powered by a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, delivering 279 kW and 530 Nm of torque. On paper, these numbers are impressive, and on the road, the power is palpable. Acceleration is smooth and responsive, whether merging onto highways or overtaking on the open road. The GV80 Coupe excels as a grand tourer—it’s comfortable, overtakes with ease, and looks the part while doing so.
However, the GV80 Coupe’s size and weight are hard to escape. At 2,295 kg, the weight is noticeable, particularly under heavy braking and during sharp directional changes. It’s not that the car doesn’t handle well—it’s just that you’re always aware of its mass, especially when pushing it through tighter corners. In city environments, like navigating tight car parks, the GV80’s size can feel a bit cumbersome, a reminder that this is still a large SUV despite its coupe-like intentions.
One area where practicality might trump style is in the wheel setup. The 22-inch wheels look fantastic and certainly add to the vehicle’s stance, but as with most cars in this segment, there’s a case to be made for dropping down an inch or two and increasing the tire sidewall. This would improve ride comfort and offer better protection against the inevitable potholes and kerbs of urban driving, though it would come at the expense of some visual drama.
Despite these factors, the GV80 Coupe remains an excellent tourer. The electronically controlled suspension does a great job of absorbing our challenging roads, and the all-wheel-drive system ensures stability even on less-than-ideal surfaces. But while it performs well, it doesn’t completely shake off the sensation of being an SUV dressed in sporty attire. It’s punchy, and enjoyable, but it doesn’t quite deliver the visceral thrill that some might expect from a vehicle that looks so intimidating.
The Verdict: Punching Above Its Weight
The Genesis GV80 Coupe is a vehicle that undoubtedly has its merits. It’s stylish, luxurious, and packed with technology. Yet, it’s also a vehicle that seems to be caught between two worlds—trying to balance the luxury and practicality of an SUV with the performance and allure of a sports coupe.
For some, this balance will hit the sweet spot, offering just enough of everything to make the GV80 Coupe an attractive proposition. For others, especially those who value the tradition and refinement of the established luxury brands, the GV80 Coupe might feel like it’s trying to do too much at once. But here’s the thing—the GV80 Coupe punches above its weight, especially when you consider the price point compared to its German rivals. Pound for pound, it delivers a level of style, technology, and performance that makes it a serious contender in the luxury SUV segment.
In the end, the GV80 Coupe is a bold step for Genesis—a statement of intent that shows they’re willing to push boundaries and challenge the status quo. Whether it’s a step that will solidify their place in the luxury SUV market or simply another contender in a crowded field will depend on how buyers respond to this daring new model. What Genesis has created with the GV80 Coupe is more than just a car—it’s a glimpse into the future of a brand that’s still finding its voice in a very loud room.
