3 years ago

Overview
The ambitious Genesis luxury brand is tackling the luxury EV segment with its satisfying and whimsical 2023 GV60 crossover. The GV60 incorporates styling elements found in other Genesis models, but it lacks the brand's large trapezoidal grille that stretches between the dual-element headlamps, substituting a slimmer lower grille across the front bumper. Inside, the GV60's cabin looks decidedly premium, with a large monolithic display screen serving as both gauge cluster and infotainment system and a novel crystal sphere shifter that rotates to reveal itself when the SUV is powered up. At launch, buyers can choose from the 314-hp Advanced or 429-hp Performance trims; estimated driving range varies from 235- to 248-miles per charge. Rival luxury SUVs such as the Audi Q4 e-tron, the Volvo XC40 Recharge, and the coupe-like C40 Recharge offer similar prestige and driving range, but the GV60's detail-oriented design and amusing flourishes make it an attractive and off-beat alternative.

What's New for 2023?
The GV60 is a new model for Genesis and the brand's third SUV. It's also the brand's first foray into the electric vehicle marketplace and it shares its underpinnings with the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and the Kia EV6.

Pricing and Which One to Buy
Advanced $59,985
Performance $68,985

While we're tempted by the Performance trim—which unlocks a maximum of 483-hp from it's two electric motors—the better buy is the Advanced trim. While the Advanced only makes 314 hp, it also comes with a slightly longer 248-mile driving range and still comes generously equipped with 20-inch wheels, a Bang & Olufsen stereo system, heated and ventilated front seats, and a host of driver-assistance features, among many others.

EV Motor, Power, and Performance
Although three different powertrains will eventually be offered, only the all-wheel-drive arrangements with dual motors will be available at the GV60's launch. The Advanced model makes a combined 314 hp while the Performance trim makes 429 hp; that number can be temporarily increased to 483 horsepower though when the Performance model's Boost driving mode is engaged. With that driving mode in use, we estimate that the GV60 will be capable of blasting to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds. When we get a chance to test that for ourselves, we'll update this story with results. What we can tell you, based on our initial test drive, is that the GV60's road manners are quite refined and its handling is reminiscent of the Porsche Macan. When cruising, the cabin remains whisper quiet but encounter a stretch of winding road and the GV60 offers enough athleticism to entertain the driver and enough sure-footedness to inspire confidence.

Range, Charging, and Battery Life
All versions come with the same 77.4-kWh battery pack, but according to the EPA the all-wheel drive GV60 Advanced will offer up to 248 miles of driving range while the Performance model carries an estimate of 235. A base rear-wheel drive powertrain is rumored to join the lineup later with a longer driving range. Hooked up to a DC fast charging station, Genesis says the GV60's battery can be charged from 10- to 80-percent capacity in just 18 minutes.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPGe
The most efficient GV60 model right now is the all-wheel drive Advanced trim which is EPA rated for up to 103 MPGe city and 86 MPGe highway. The Performance trim is rated for 97 MPGe city and 82 MPGe highway. When we get a chance to test the GV60 on our 75-mph highway fuel economy test route, we'll update this story with test results. For more information about the GV60's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
As the smallest SUV in the Genesis lineup, the GV60 isn't as spacious as the larger GV70 and GV80 models. However, it offers a unique interior design that's more high-tech in its appearance. Genesis has taken some chances here and integrated some cool motifs and features, including a gear selector that flips upside down when in park and has the appearance of a crystal ball. The GV60 also boasts some novel tech, such as a facial recognition system that allows the owner to unlock and start the vehicle without needing a key. Other biometric tech such as fingerprint readers are also incorporated into the SUV's design.

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