How the Genesis GV80 Coupe Will (and Won’t) Differ From the GV80
At the recently held Los Angeles auto show, Genesis introduced the brand’s latest model, the GV80 Coupe. Touted as more than just a re-body of the existing GV80 SUV, the manufacturer invited us to a round table discussion with Genesis Motors North America Senior Chief Designer John Krsteski to talk about the new vehicle.
During our conversation we learned a lot about what made the GV80 Coupe different from its more traditional SUV sibling. Below we explore four key components of the new GV80 Coupe, digging into the similarities and differences.
Exterior
Krsteski says the Coupe wasn’t in the original plans when creating the GV80 SUV. With the big SUV being his favorite design in the current Genesis portfolio, it was important to approach the GV80 Coupe’s design from all angles. The goal was to adopt the vehicle’s styling into a SUV Coupe configuration without the final product looking awkward.
The team thought of the GV80 Coupe more as adding something to the existing SUV, rather taking something away. It’s all about perspective. While some may think the Coupe takes away part of the roof, the 3rd row of seats, and some cargo capacity, Krsteski likes to think of it as adding style, personality, and power (more on that later).
The most notable change to the exterior is that raked roofline. At the back of the vehicle there’s an integrated rear lip spoiler and high mounted rear window spoiler. The GV80 Coupe has its own unique LED surface-emitting rear combination lamps and an exclusive set of 22-inch alloy wheels.
Interior
Inside, the majority of the fundamental pieces stay the same, like the seats, dashboard and display screens. It’s the surface materials, interior patterns, and stitching that differ from GV80 to the GV80 Coupe.
That stated, there is some unique equipment. The Coupe features a two-tone D-cut (flat bottom) steering wheel. There are also metal accents on both the gas and brake pedals.
Engine
The GV80 comes with a choice of engines, a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder or a 3.5-liter turbocharged V6. The GV80 Coupe will come with just a singular engine option, and it’s one not found in the regular three-row SUV.
Under the hood of the Coupe is a 3.5-liter turbocharged V6, but this one includes a 48V electric supercharger, like what’s found in the G90. In the GV80 Coupe, total output is listed at 409 horsepower and 405 lb-ft of torque. That's more than the GV80 SUV's most potent powerplant.
Driving Attitude
According to Krsteski, the biggest difference between the SUV and SUV Coupe is the driving attitude. Behind the wheel, the original GV80 SUV feels noble, confident, and reassuring. With the GV80, the styling inside and out is always top of mind. To him, it evokes a feeling of excitement, energy, and engagement.
Unfortunately, we won’t be able to test whether we agree with those statements until next year. No official release date has been set, but the updated GV80 will go on sale first, probably mid-year, followed by the GV80 Coupe at a later date.
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A 20+ year industry veteran, Mike rejoins the AutoGuide team as the Managing Editor. He started his career at a young age working at dealerships, car rentals, and used car advertisers. He then found his true passion, automotive writing. After contributing to multiple websites for several years, he spent the next six years working at the head office of an automotive OEM, before returning back to the field he loves. He is a member of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC), and Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA). He's the recipient of a feature writing of the year award and multiple video of the year awards.
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I like the look of the regular GV80 and this seems to have been an intelligent and attractive re-style.
I'm just irritated by the misnomer "coupe". This is a fastback sedan.
I like the coupe or fastback sedan look. Not everyone wants to have that buttoned down, I go to bed at 8pm everyday look to their vehicles. Manufacturers should want to have vehicles in their lineup that attracts every range of buyers.