Genesis GV60 review: coming in fast from left field

The Genesis GV60 is a radical rival to the likes of the BMW iX2 and Audi Q4 e-tron. But is it any good?

The Genesis GV60 is a great example of how electric cars are shifting the long-established and recognised car segments.

It used to be a busy but fairly simple choice of hatch, saloon, estate or SUV across five main size-defined segments – A to E. Now, there’s a proliferation of EVs that are halfway between an SUV and a fastback; ones that look like saloons but have the practicality of a hatchback; estates that barely look like estates and ‘compact’ cars with more legroom than a 1990s Mercedes S Class.

Into all of this, the GV60 slots as a sort-of-mid-sized coupe-SUV with sporty ambitions and a premium price tag. It’s all a bit confusing, but is it any good?

Design, interior and technology

At some point in late 2025, we should be getting the facelifted Genesis GV60, which brings a refreshed front end and upgraded interior.

I’m not sure that the new front end – with a redesigned 3D bumper – is any better looking than the current model, which is admirable for doing something completely different. The striking ‘face’ won’t be for everyone, with its quad headlights and low-set crest grille, but it’s definitely unique and sure to draw attention.

The line of the headlights runs the length of the squat, broad bodywork to a similarly split rear light array in a steeply sloping tailgate with a slightly awkward ducktail spoiler. The shape is quite colour sensitive but touches like the V-shaped trim line (to signify volts) help emphasise the unique style of this smallest Genesis.

Like the exterior, the GV60’s interior is unlike anything else you’ll find on the road. There are one or two elements shared with models such as the GV70 – such as the rotary infotainment controller – but most of it is unique to the GV60. That includes the Crystal Sphere drive selector which swaps from being a smooth hemisphere to a knurled rotary controller when you start the motor. Gimmicky? Yes. Kinda cool? Yep. There are other gimmicky elements around the GV60’s cabin, from the odd shaping of the door cards and handles, to the proliferation of oval-shaped touches and I’m still not as keen on the GV60’s interior as the GV70’s.

However, there’s no questioning the fit and finish or the quality of the materials. Genesis is serious about being seen as a premium brand and pleasant touchpoints and materials such as Nappa leather upholstery help to achieve that.

Despite a relatively small footprint the GV60 offers an impressive amount of passenger space. At 4.51m long, it’s noticeably shorter than cars like the Audi Q4 e-tron, Skoda Enyaq Coupe vRS and smaller than even the BMW iX2. But its 2.9m wheelbase allows plenty of space for four largish adults to stretch out in its super-comfortable seats. And refinement inside is impeccable whether you’re cruising along or taking advantage of the GV60’s plentiful power.

Genesis GV60 battery, motor and performance

Which brings us onto the Genesis GV60’s powertrain options. Entry level cars come with a single rear-mounted 226bhp motor capable of getting from 0-62mph in 7.8 seconds. Above that a Sport trim adds a motor to the front wheels for a total of 314bhp and a 2.3-second reduction in the standard acceleration test.

But I’ve been driving the range-topping Sport Plus, which packs twin 180kW motors for a total usable output of 483bhp and 516lb ft. In this version, 0-62mph takes just 4 seconds. Not that you’d guess if you leave the car in eco or comfort mode. Both these settings restrict the car’s power and mean, much like our long-term GV70, the GV60 feels quick enough but nothing special.

Stick it into Sport mode, however, and things get more interesting. Press the bright green Boost button on the steering wheel and they get even more lively as this sporty SUV lives up to its billing and fires down the road with eye-opening pace.

As with most electronically assisted steering systems, feedback isn’t the GV60’s strongest suit. It responds sharply and accurately to inputs, changing direction with surprising willingness but don’t expect Porsche (or Hyundai) levels of communication.

There’s also still a noticeable degree of body roll, even with the adaptive air suspension in its firmest setting, but lay off the boost button and it’s not too troublesome. The clever suspension on this top-spec car uses a camera to prime itself for changing surfaces ahead and while it’s generally an impressively smooth ride, the sport mode does introduce a noticeably harder edge.

All versions of the GV60 use a 77kWh battery which offers up to 321 miles of range in entry-level Premium spec and 289 miles in the Sport Plus configuration. Ultra-rapid charging of 220kW takes care of a 10-80% top-up in an impressive 18 minutes.

Price and specification

Prices for the Genesis GV60 start at £54,105 for the single-motor Premium spec. Mid-grade Sport is £58,565 while the Sport Plus is a punchy £67,705.

All the cars feature a solid premium spec, ranging from auto-dipping LED lights and a powered tailgate to heated rear seats and heated, cooled and massaging ‘ergo motion’ front seats. Compared to similarly priced cars from the German big three, you’ll find the equipment and technology levels pretty generous.

Sport’s only upgrade is 20-inch wheels, while Sport Plus adds goodies such as 21-inch alloys, an e-LSD, the road-scanning suspension and Nappa leather. Even then, you can spec it way beyond £70,000 with options packs that add everything from a panoramic roof to pointless digital wing mirrors.

Verdict

The broad spread of the Genesis GV60’s pricing and power means that at its lower end, it is competing with the likes of the BMW, Audi and even the hottest Skoda, but in Sport Plus trim, its price and power mean there aren’t many natural rivals.

In any specification it’s a roomy, comfortable, refined and beautifully made premium car that’s well worthy of consideration against its rivals. In Sport Plus mode it just also happens to go like stink.

The design is divisive and the price a strong one but for drivers looking to stand out from the EV crowd, it certainly has appeal.

If you can live without the ridiculous pace of the Sport Plus (and you probably can), then the price also becomes less of an issue. And every GV60 is backed by Genesis’ comprehensive five-year care plan including warranty, roadside assistance and free servicing and inspections with at-home collection and a courtesy car.

Genesis GV60 Sport Plus

• Price: £67,705
• Powertrain: twin-motor, all-wheel-drive
• Battery: 77kWh
• Power: 483bhp
• Torque: 516lb ft
• Top speed: 146mph
• 0-62mph: 4 seconds
• Range: 289 miles
• Consumption: 3.25m/kWh
• Charging: up to 220kW