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.