Six years after the carmaker’s launch as a standalone luxury brand, the 2023 Genesis GV60 debuts as the marque’s first dedicated electric vehicle. It delightfully further blurs the definition of automotive innovation and gadgetry.
Available in Advanced and Performance trims, the GV60 is operated by two electric motors and a 77.4-kWh battery pack. Using a 120-volt (Level 1) household-style outlet, the GV60 takes about 68 hours to charge. A 240-volt (Level II) outlet will charge the GV60 in around seven hours. Using a DC Fast-Charging (Level III) station, the GV60 will advance from a 10 to 80 percent charge in around 18 minutes (250-kW/800 volts). The battery can also be used to power external equipment, including appliances.
Key Takeaways
- Powertrain: two electric motors and a 77.4-kWh battery pack, 429 horsepower.
- $67,890 MSRP and $69,560 as tested.
- 0-60 mph in 4.0 seconds.
- 235 miles of range and 97 city / 82 highway MPGe, according to the EPA.
- Charging: a DC Fast-Charging station takes the GV60 from a 10 to 80 percent charge in around 18 minutes.
- Ride: Driving the GV60 is a largely quiet experience.
Platform and Performance
The relevance of performance is subjective. How fast is fast enough? For those enamored by speed, a boost button on the steering wheel provides 10 seconds, 54 additional horsepower and 70 more pound-feet of torque. If it’s important for the 0-to-60 mph standard to improve by .2 seconds, have at it.
The GV60 is also the third of three new related EVs, joining the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6. All use Hyundai’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), the battery architecture. The trio also offers individualized futuristic styling, performance, environmental consideration and overall quality from manufacturers all previously often shunned.
Interior and Features
Categorized as a small crossover, the Genesis GV60’s exterior and interior stylings contradict the definition. Small appears big. Four passengers sit comfortably. The doors and dashboard combine high-quality, quilted upholstery and leather surfaces. The overall motif is futuristic chic, dominated by oblong, horizontally placed chrome handle grasps, dials, etc. A fixed panoramic glass roof also gives the interior a more spacious presence.
The most unique feature: A gadget open for individual definition. It’s an illuminated crystalline orb. When the engine starts, the console-located globe rotates from its planet appearance to a switch-style dial. It’s a keen novelty, a conversation item without any particular purpose.
Equally unique are the facial and fingerprint recognition features. Register your face image in the camera near the driver’s door. Return to your vehicle the next time without needing the key fob. Register your fingerprint with a feature on the console and you can start the vehicle without the key.
Driving Impressions
Driving the GV60 is a largely quiet experience. The traditional EV engine whine is kept to a minimum, and the SUV advances on the open road in near silence. There’s little wind rush and are no distractions with two exceptions. The backup, front and side alerts in parking or other tight quarters are hyperactive.
The overall superior quality and quiet drive are assisted by an adaptive suspension and strong cabin insulation. Further, the front seats are well-cushioned and firm. The rear seats afford two adults ample room and substantial reclining.
Standard Equipment
Standard infotainment: a 12.3-inch touch screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation, a Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless device charging, satellite radio, HD Radio, four USB ports, a 17-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system and Bluetooth. A 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, dual-zone automatic climate control, push-button start and a universal garage-door opener are also included.
2023 Genesis GV60 Verdict
While the range of the GV60 needs a boost, the new Genesis family member debuts as a strong addition to the efficient, well-designed impressive corps of new EV luxury crossovers. It has much to offer at the front of the pack.
Facts & Figures: 2023 Genesis GV60
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Base Price | $67,890 |
| As-Tested Price | $69,560 |
| Motor | Dual electric motors, 77.4-kWh battery |
| Horsepower | 429 hp |
| Drivetrain | All-wheel drive |
| 0-60 mph | 4.0 seconds |
| Fuel Economy | 97 city / 82 highway / 90 combined MPGe |
| Range | 235 miles |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Airbags | 10 |
| Warranty | Bumper to bumper 5 yr/60,000 mi; powertrain 10 yr/100,000 mi; corrosion 5 yr/unlimited; maintenance 3 yr/36,000 mi; roadside assistance 5 yr/unlimited |
James Raia
A sports, travel and business journalist for more than 45 years, James has written the new car review column The Weekly Driver since 2004. In addition to founding this site in 2004, James writes a Sunday automotive column for The San Jose Mercury and East Bay Times in Walnut Creek, Calif., and monthly auto review and wellness columns for Gulfshore Business, a magazine in Southwest Florida. An author and contributor to many newspapers, magazines and online publications, co-hosted The Weekly Driver Podcast from 2017 to 2024.
