The Genesis GV80 Coupe is a vehicle that commands attention from the moment you lay eyes on it. This isn’t just another large SUV; it’s a statement of luxury, style, and performance, designed for those who appreciate the finer things in life and aren’t shy about showing it.
Design and comfort
From the outside, the GV80 Coupe’s design is nothing short of stunning. Its sleek coupe lines transform what could be just another large, seven-seater SUV into a sensuous beast. The rear of the vehicle, with its beautifully sculpted slope, is particularly eye-catching, drawing double-takes from onlookers who might be trying to place the brand or simply admiring the design. Even though Genesis styling has been around for a few years now, it still manages to stand out in a market saturated with SUVs.
Once inside, the GV80 continues to impress. The moment you press the start button, you’re greeted by a warm hug from the pre-tensioning seat belts, setting the tone for a luxurious driving experience. The interior is swathed in Nappa leather, with orange stitching and matching seat belts adding a sporty yet sophisticated touch. The seats themselves are incredibly comfortable, offering excellent support whether you’re on a long road trip or just popping down to the shops.
Technology and deatures
Genesis has packed the GV80 with cutting-edge technology, ensuring that it not only looks good but also delivers a premium user experience. The updated infotainment system and dashboard layout are intuitive and user-friendly, showcasing the next generation of the brand’s design evolution. One particularly interesting feature is the UV-C sanitiser, a nod to the times, which allows you to sanitise your phone with the press of a button. I first saw this feature in the Santa Fe hybrid, but it’s a welcome addition to the GV80, emphasising Genesis’s focus on passenger well-being.
Driver assistance technology has also been enhanced, with upgrades to meet the latest ANCAP protocols. The GV80 now includes an eye-tracking sensor that monitors whether you’re paying attention to the road, and if not, gently reminds you with a softer, less intrusive tone than what you might find in other vehicles. This kind of thoughtful design extends to every aspect of the vehicle, from the shape of the steering wheel, wrapped in luxurious Nappa leather, to the overall feel of the controls and interfaces.
Performance and driving experience
But a car like the GV80 isn’t just about looks and features; it’s about how it makes you feel when you’re behind the wheel. And here, the GV80 does not disappoint. Powered by a V6 twin-turbo engine, the GV80 delivers a driving experience that is both thrilling and refined. The exhaust note alone is enough to bring a smile to your face every time you press down on the accelerator. The engine is responsive and powerful, making the GV80 feel agile and light despite its size.
That said, this performance comes at a cost – specifically, fuel efficiency. With a consumption rate hovering around 15 litres per 100 kilometres, the GV80 is not the most economical choice. But then, you don’t buy a vehicle like this if you’re worried about fuel costs or emissions. This is a car for those who appreciate luxury, performance, and the unmistakable presence that the GV80 Coupe brings to the road.
Final thoughts
The Genesis GV80 Coupe is a vehicle that blends luxury, technology, and performance in a way that few others can. It might not be the most practical SUV on the market, particularly with its less-than-stellar fuel efficiency, but it more than makes up for it with its style, comfort, and sheer driving pleasure. For those who want a vehicle that stands out from the crowd and delivers a top-tier driving experience, the GV80 Coupe is an excellent choice.
