It’s hard not to be skeptical about Genesis’ entry into the European and French markets…
Genesis GV60 229 hp / 84 kWh Pure: Two-Wheel Drive
There have been many attempts to lure luxury specialists onto their turf, and few have paid off. Genesis bets, however, on shaking up a market where electric power is redrawing the map. Its European lineup is, in fact, composed solely of battery-powered models. Built on the E-GMP platform shared notably with the Kia EV6 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5, the GV60 isn’t exactly a rookie since its debut dates back to 2021. Europe, though, gets the refreshed version, which, in a package about 8 inches shorter, carries the same 800‑V 84 kWh battery as its cousins. Aesthetically, it doesn’t lack personality, with a hint of a coupe profile, and the curves call to mind 1990s biodesign. For the test, we focused on the variant offering the most compelling range—the Pure two‑wheel‑drive edition. When the driver sits inside, one senses that the promise of a premium universe is fulfilled. Especially on our all‑options example; more on that later.
Genesis GV60 229 hp / 84 kWh Pure: a bit of a letdown on the enormous screen
The bright, airy ambiance breaks from the black-on-black of German rivals, and the tasteful details are plentiful. Padded leather, contrast stitching on the dashboard, numerous genuine aluminum inserts, and even the translucent illuminated ball that doubles as the gear selector at startup all testify to a certain sense of spectacle. Yet we’re a bit let down when tapping on the massive 27-inch screen. Admittedly, the menu presentation is more polished than in Hyundai models, but Genesis seems to have added another layer of complexity: the whole system lacks clear hierarchy and simplicity. Fortunately, the GV60 keeps physical buttons for essential functions like climate control. Despite its compact length, the SUV offers reasonably generous rear-seat space, even for two tall adults: legroom is on par with the Citroën C5 Aircross or the Opel Grandland.
Genesis GV60 229 hp / 84 kWh Pure: a trunk that doesn’t break any volume records
And while its rear cargo area isn’t a record-breaker, it sensibly provides a second storage space up front—about 50 L. Initial impressions are therefore positive. Unfortunately, a few meters behind the wheel immediately reveal a major shortcoming: suspension filtering is nearly non-existent at very low speeds. Our example rode on 235/55 R19 tires with relatively tall sidewalls. In city driving, while its length is an asset, its width proves problematic in many parking spaces. A 360° camera remains a prerequisite to maneuver, especially since the model’s turning circle is a real flaw for a rear‑wheel drive. The stress-free experience you expect from a premium SUV suffers as a result. Moreover, the GV60 isn’t particularly sporty, despite its chunky steering wheel. Fortunately, comfort improves as speed rises.
Genesis GV60 229 hp / 84 kWh Pure: it doesn’t like the potholes
Yet the damping quality remains imperfect. The SUV doesn’t enjoy being battered on rough surfaces; pumping phenomena arise quickly. Granted, the vehicle’s mass is substantial, but European rivals do better—and not only within the luxury segment. A touch less lumbering than the Ioniq 5 in corners, the GV60 never truly leverages its rear‑drive architecture, revealing itself only if the driver pushes it to an exaggerated extreme. It’s a pity, because otherwise, performance is quite solid, both in acceleration and in re-acceleration. Additionally, the sound insulation proves to be a major strength; no road or wind noise disturbs the cabin. If Genesis isn’t fully convincing on the dynamic side, it proves much stronger in terms of its electric capabilities.
Genesis GV60 229 hp / 84 kWh Pure: a comfortable battery
Its comfortable battery affords, by our measurements, an approximate 400 km of highway range—a figure that hints at very practical versatility, especially since the 800‑V technology can shorten charging times. We achieved a 20–80% recharge in under 23 minutes, a result that is somewhat higher than Genesis’ promise (10–80% in 18 minutes). But it was a sweltering day, and we had to switch off the air conditioning to reclaim the optimal charging power. As a luxury badge, Genesis introduces in Europe a new concept: options. And the brand does not hold back: our test car was loaded with nearly €20,000 in extras. Consequently, the price tag looks surprisingly steep for a badge that’s still relatively unknown, especially when compared with its Ioniq 5 cousin delivering the same electrical performance…
Genesis GV60 229 hp / 84 kWh Pure: its strengths?
- Quietness
- 800 V technology
- Presentation
Genesis GV60 229 hp / 84 kWh Pure: its weaknesses?
- Damping
- Turning radius
- Multimedia ergonomics
The Auto-Journal verdict: 3.5/5
The GV60’s main strength is offering 800 V technology in a relatively compact model. But it falls short in several practical areas, and the final score is steep.
Genesis GV60 229 hp / 84 kWh Pure: in measurements
Find our first test of the Genesis GV60 229 hp / 84 kWh Pure in Auto-Journal issue #1216, dated September 3, 2026.
