Genesis launches first hybrid GV80 with 912 km range, starting at W76.8m

Genesis has launched its first hybrid model since the brand's debut, pairing a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine with an electric motor in its large SUV, the GV80. The combination lifts output and fuel efficiency by 16 percent and 29 percent, respectively, over the existing gasoline model.

Genesis said Tuesday it had launched the GV80 Hybrid and begun sales. The model is the brand's first to feature a rear-wheel-drive-based 2.5 turbo hybrid system.

The powertrain combines a 2.5 turbo engine with a starter-generator motor and a traction motor — rated at a peak output of 59.1 kilowatts — that handles both propulsion and regenerative braking.

Combined engine and motor output reaches 352 horsepower, about 16 percent more than the 304 horsepower of the existing GV80 2.5 Turbo. The vehicle accelerates from a standstill to 100 kilometers per hour in approximately 7.1 seconds, based on Genesis's own testing.

The fuel economy gains are substantial. The two-wheel-drive, five-seat model fitted with 19-inch wheels achieves a combined fuel economy of 12 km/L, up about 29 percent from the existing 2.5 turbo model. With a 76-liter fuel tank, the GV80 Hybrid can travel up to approximately 912 kilometers on a single fill-up.

Genesis also developed a new transmission for the model. Based on the rear-wheel eight-speed gearbox used in the existing 3.5 turbo variant, the new seven-speed unit has a more compact structure and improved power-transfer efficiency. When reversing, the electric motor runs in the opposite direction in place of the engine.

The range over which the vehicle runs on electric power alone has been expanded. When pulling away in underground parking garages and similar settings, the system relies heavily on the electric motor up to around 30 km/h to reduce the noise and vibration associated with engine start-up. The vehicle is also designed to use the electric motor as much as possible in congested urban traffic.

Re-acceleration performance has also been improved. When the driver presses the accelerator while in electric mode, the engine cuts in quickly to supplement the motor. Genesis's own measurements show re-acceleration from 100 km/h is about 18 percent faster than in the existing 2.5 gasoline turbo model.

The battery uses a liquid-cooling system — a first for a Hyundai Motor Group hybrid — allowing more active thermal management so that high output can be sustained reliably.

Off-road capability has been addressed as well. The all-wheel-drive model is the first in the Hyundai Motor Group lineup to feature "Hybrid Terrain Performance," a function that brings the engine in immediately to supplement drive force when the electric motor alone lacks sufficient power on unpaved roads or inclines.

A predictive control function uses navigation data to assess road conditions ahead and adjusts the balance between electric mode, hybrid mode and regenerative braking accordingly.

The vehicle also features "Smart Regenerative Braking," which automatically adjusts regenerative braking intensity based on the distance to the vehicle ahead and speed-camera data. The system reduces how often the driver needs to apply the brake pedal while simultaneously charging the battery through regenerative braking.

The GV80 Hybrid also brings over features more commonly found in electric vehicles. Vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality supports up to 3.6 kilowatts of output, allowing home appliances and electronic devices to be powered from the car. A "Stay Mode" lets occupants use the high-voltage battery for heating, cooling and multimedia while stationary, with the engine switched off.

The suspension has been reworked for ride comfort. Dual-valve electronically controlled shock absorbers — which independently manage compression and rebound — adjust damping force in real time in response to road conditions and vehicle movement. Spring and rear stabilizer bar stiffness have also been increased to reduce body roll in corners.

To cut noise and vibration, separate damping devices have been added to the engine and transmission, and sound-absorbing and sound-insulating materials between the cabin and engine bay have been reinforced.

Safety features have been expanded as well. A pedal misapplication safety assist function detects when the driver appears to have pressed the accelerator hard instead of the brake while stationary, then limits drive force and applies emergency braking. The side body structure has also been reinforced to protect the battery in a collision.

Among the convenience features, the wipers use an integrated washer blade that sprays washer fluid directly from the wiper itself, cutting fluid consumption to about 20 percent of the conventional system's usage. The surround-view monitor has gained a function that shows blind spots directly beneath the vehicle.

On the exterior, the GV80 Hybrid receives a redesigned radiator grille and new wheels. New color options include Seychelles Beige, Brunswick Green, Tromsø Green and Cardiff Green.

Pricing starts at 76.8 million won ($56,500), based on a 5 percent individual consumption tax rate.

Genesis also unveiled the 2027 GV80 and 2027 GV80 Coupe, both annual model-year updates, on Tuesday. Both models come standard with a surround-view monitor, blind-spot view monitor, rear cross-traffic collision avoidance assist and Digital Key 2.

The 2027 GV80 features a larger radiator grille and gains 10 millimeters each in overall body length and front overhang. Seat cushioning and interior materials have also been updated. Prices, based on a 5 percent individual consumption tax rate, are 69.85 million won for the GV80 and 82.7 million won for the GV80 Coupe.

Lee Si-hyuk, executive vice president and head of the Genesis Business Division, said the GV80 Hybrid would deliver a differentiated driving experience to customers by combining strong performance and outstanding efficiency with a level of quietness on par with an electric vehicle. "We will continue to offer a diverse range of powertrain experiences, responding flexibly to market changes and meeting customer needs," he added.