Genesis GV80 Coupe: Hyundai's Luxury Brand Debut in India?

If the Hyundai Genesis GV80 Coupe is launched in India, luxury car buyers will be spoiled with a competitively priced option to choose from. Let's explore how this potential introduction could impact the Indian market and what the GV80 Coupe has to offer.

Globally, the Hyundai Group's brand hierarchy positions Kia at the lower end, Hyundai in the middle, and Genesis at the top. In India, however, Kia is perceived as the more premium brand, while Hyundai occupies the lower end of the spectrum. The Genesis brand has not yet been introduced in the Indian market. But will this change with the GV80 Coupe?

Hyundai Genesis GV80 Coupe

India is currently on the verge of witnessing the rise of coupe SUVs, with models like the Tata Curvv and Citroen Basalt set to launch soon. In an interesting development, Hyundai has trademarked a coupe SUV in India, but not in the compact SUV segment to rival Curvv and Basalt. Instead, Hyundai's upcoming (yet to be confirmed) coupe SUV is a luxury offering that may introduce the Genesis brand in India.

Genesis: Hyundai's Luxury Division

Genesis is Hyundai's luxury division, akin to how Acura is to Honda, Lexus to Toyota, Infiniti to Nissan, and Cadillac to General Motors. In January 2023, Hyundai Genesis GV80 test mules were spotted on Indian roads without camouflage, likely as part of a market study. Now, Hyundai has trademarked the Genesis GV80 Coupe in India, as seen in the images below. While Hyundai has not confirmed the introduction of the Genesis brand in India, this could be an IP protection exercise.

Specifications and Features

Dimensions and Performance

The Genesis GV80 Coupe is a stylish coupe SUV with the following dimensions:

• Length: 4,965 mm

• Width: 1,975 mm

• Height: 1,710 mm

• Wheelbase: 2,955 mm

It offers various engine options:

• 300 bhp 2.5L TGDi engine

• 410 bhp supercharged 3.5L V6 petrol

• 375 bhp twin-turbo 3.5L V6 petrol

Other notable features include an 80L fuel tank, AWD system with e-LSD, and active suspension.

Luxury and Design Highlights

The Genesis GV80 Coupe, updated for MY 2025, is the flagship model in Genesis' SUV lineup. It rivals luxury SUVs such as the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, Audi Q8, BMW X6, Land Rover Range Rover Velar, and Porsche Cayenne Coupe.

Exterior Design

• Large 22-inch alloy wheels

• Dark chrome accents

• Red-painted 4-pot monoblock brake calipers

• Signature Genesis grille

• Two-Line MLA headlights and matching LED tail lights

• Dynamic welcome lights

• Coupe-specific bumper with dual mufflers and quad tips

• Coupe-exclusive split spoiler

• Glossy and matte color options

Interior Luxury

• Acoustic double-glaze glass

• Front and rear ventilated and massaging seats

• Electrically operated seats (front and rear)

• Extensive use of soft-touch plastics and other exquisite materials

• Single-piece 27-inch OLED screen for infotainment and instrumentation

• Soft-close doors

• Ambient lighting

• Bang & Olufsen audio system

• Electrically operated boss-mode for rear occupants

• Optional 6-seat layout with captain chairs

• Plush carpets

Conclusion: Will Genesis Redefine the Luxury Segment in India?

Specs aside, the Genesis GV80 Coupe is a luxury offering that could redefine the luxury segment in India if launched. It is price-wise competitive and offers style and substance to give European rivals a run for their money. The introduction of Genesis vehicles in India, beyond just trademarking for IP protection, would be a welcome addition to the market.