Six years after the carmaker’s launch as a standalone luxury brand, the 2023 Genesis GV60 debuts as the marque’s first dedicated electric vehicle. It’s an impressive debut of automotive innovation and a dash of gadgetry.
Available in Advanced and Performance trims, the GV60 is operated by two electric motors and a 77.4-kWh battery pack. Using a 120-volt (Level 1) household-style outlet, the GV60 takes about 68 hours to charge. A 240-volt (Level II) outlet will charge the GV60 in about seven hours. Using a DC Fast-Charging (Level III) station, the GV60 will advance from a 10% to 80% charge in about 18 minutes (250-kW/800 volts). The battery can also be used to power external equipment, including appliances.
The relevance of performance is subjective. How fast is fast enough? For those enamored by speed, a boost button on the steering wheel provides 10 seconds of 54 additional horsepower and 70 more foot-pounds of torque. If it’s important for the 0-to-60 mph standard to improve by 0.2 seconds, have at it.
The GV60 is also the third of three new related EVs—joining the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6—that use Hyundai’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), the battery architecture. The trio also offers individualized futuristic styling, performance, environmental consideration and overall quality from manufacturers, all previously often shunned.
It’s categorized as a small crossover, but the GV60’s exterior and interior stylings contradict the term: Small appears big. Four passengers sit comfortably. The doors and dashboard combine high-quality, quilted upholstery and leather surfaces. The overall motif is futuristic chic, dominated by oblong, horizontally placed chrome handle grasps, dials, etc. A fixed panoramic glass roof also gives the interior a more spacious presence.
The most unique feature: A gadget open for individual definition. It’s an illuminated crystalline orb. When the engine starts, the console-located globe rotates from its planet appearance to a switch-style dial. It’s a keen novelty, a conversation item without any particular purpose.
Equally unique are facial and fingerprint recognition features. Register your face image in the camera near the driver’s door and return to your vehicle the next time without needing the key fob. Register your fingerprint with a feature on the console, and you can start the vehicle without the key.
Driving the GV60 is a largely quiet experience. The traditional EV engine whine is kept to a minimum, and the SUV advances on the open road in near silence. There’s little wind rush and no distractions—with two exceptions: The backup, front and side alerts in parking or other tight quarters are rather hyperactive.
The overall superior quality and quiet drive are assisted by an adaptive suspension and strong cabin insulation. Further, the front seats are well-cushioned and firm. The rear seats afford two adults ample room and substantial reclining.
Standard infotainment: a 12.3-inch touch screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation, a Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless device charging, satellite radio, HD Radio, four USB ports, a 17-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system and Bluetooth. A 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, dual-zone automatic climate control, push-button start and a universal garage-door opener are also included.
While the GV60’s range needs a boost, the new Genesis family member debuts as a strong addition to the efficient, well-designed impressive corps of new EV luxury crossovers. It has much to offer at the front of the pack.
Facts & figures
Acceleration: 0-60 mph, 4.0 seconds
Airbags: 10
Electric motor: 97 and 82 MPGe city/hwy
Range: 234 miles
Horsepower: 429
Manufacturer’s
Suggested Retail Price: $67,890
Manufacturer’s website: genesis.com
Price as tested:$69,560
Warranty: Bumper to bumper, 5 years/60,000 miles; Powertrain, 10 years/100,000 miles; Corrosion, 5 years/unlimited mileage; Maintenance, 3 years/36,000 miles; Roadside assistance, 5 years/unlimited mileage; Battery, 2 years/24,000 miles
