2023 Genesis GV60 Expert Review
Reviewed by Alex Leanse
A small electric crossover has joined the Genesis lineup. Dubbed the GV60, the newest Genesis model sits on a dedicated EV platform shared with the Kia EV6 and award-winning Hyundai Ioniq 5. Introduced as a 2023 model, the GV60 will go on sale initially in Arizona, California, Connecticut, New Jersey, Nevada, New York, Utah and Washington. It's part of Genesis' transition to becoming an all-electric automaker, and competes with the Audi Q4 E-Tron and Cadillac Lyriq . Some GV60 intenders will probably compare it against the GV70 Electric model, too.
What We Think
Anyone worried our electrified future will include mundane transportation pods should experience the Genesis GV60. The Korean luxury brand's first dedicated electric vehicle proves how battery power not only enables great functionality, but personality, as well.
The impression begins with the GV60's styling. Although not conventionally beautiful, its proportions and details look like nothing else. Slide inside, and it's hard to not smile—the layout and features are a bit peculiar, but generally look and work great. Although build quality is strong, some materials aren't quite of the standard expected from a luxury brand.
With its abundant electric torque, the GV60's quick acceleration shouldn't come as a surprise. Other dynamic attributes are good; the GV60 rides well and is entertaining despite fairly lifeless steering and brakes that could use more bite. It hits a nice balance of comfort and performance.
Perhaps the GV60's biggest problem comes from within: the Kia EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 5 it shares its fundamentals with are potentially just as good to drive, while offering more range at a lower price. The GV60 distinguishes itself with quirky design and features, but those might not be enough to justify the outlay over its excellent counterparts.
Performance, Range, and Charging
Every 2023 GV60 carries a 77.4 kWh battery pack that juices a dual-motor AWD powertrain. It can charge at a fairly rapid 235 kW, allowing for 10 to 80 percent recharging in as little as 18 minutes.
The entry-level GV60 Advanced AWD makes 314 hp and 446 lb-ft of torque, which should be good for a 0-60 mph time of about 4.5 seconds. Range is rated by the EPA at 246 miles.
Performance increases in the aptly named GV60 Performance AWD. Its two motors combine to make 429 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque as standard, but a so-called Boost mode increases power to 483 hp for 10 seconds. With Boost mode on, the GV60 sprinted to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds in MotorTrend testing. According to the EPA, range falls slightly to 235 miles.
Cool and Quirky Luxury Features
Genesis' designers and product planners clearly had fun with the GV60—it's equipped with numerous unusual and entertaining features. Even getting inside is noteworthy: a camera on the B-pillar allows the vehicle to be unlocked via facial recognition. Once aboard, a fingerprint scanner lets personalized driver profiles be loaded, and the vehicle to start. Don't worry, though, a key fob and start button still work, too.
Once in the driver's seat, check out the snazzy illuminated glass orb positioned on the center console—that's no simple decoration. As the vehicle turns on, this bauble flips over to reveal the GV60's drive selector knob. More oddities: the glove compartment is a drawer, and there's a scent diffuser pod on the front passenger door. The two-spoke steering wheel and circular door handles are unusual, as well. In certain trim levels, a reflective material adorns the cabin like what you find on high-visibility athletic apparel.
Bizarre as these features are, none detract from the GV60's functionality. They work well while adding personality and distinction.
Safety Ratings and Features
Numerous driver-assist and active safety features come standard on the GV60. Among them are front and rear automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, camera-based blind-spot monitoring, side cross-traffic alert, road sign recognition, and automatic high beams. Eight airbags are distributed throughout the cabin.
From the IIHS, the GV60 earns Top Safety Pick+ designation, the highest possible.
Cargo Space and Interior Room
Although certain things about the GV60's interior are a bit weird, the amount of space it provides isn't—capacities are right in line with its segment competitors.
Technology
Advanced and Performance trims of the GV60 come with essentially identical technology features. Both are equipped with dual 12.3-inch digital displays, one for the gauge cluster and the other for the infotainment touchscreen. That touchscreen is loaded with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, built-in navigation, and satellite HD radio. A head-up display and surround-view parking camera system is also standard. There are USB charge ports in both rows, and a wireless charging pad up front. Active noise cancellation makes it easier to listen to the 17-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium audio system.
Recommended Trim
Speedy as the GV60 Performance AWD trim is, we'd stick with the Advanced AWD model. With abundant torque on tap it's hardly slow, and we'll take the extra 10-or-so miles of range. Given that the Advanced AWD model costs nearly $10,000 less than the Performance AWD and includes most of the same features, we see little reason to upgrade beyond the entry-level GV60.
