Genesis made a big impact at the New York Auto Show with the all-electric X Gran Equator, a car that boasts the only bonnet long enough to give Jaguar's Type 00 a run for its money.
Genesis is the luxury division of Hyundai Motor Group and has produced cars since 2015, selling 1.3 million vehicles worldwide so far. The brand entered the UK market in 2021, quickly making an impression with electric offerings such as the GV60, GV70, and G80. Competing directly against premium brands like Audi, BMW, and Mercedes, Genesis vehicles heavily emphasise technology and bold exterior and interior design - with the X Gran Equator continuing this trend.
Genesis has fully embraced adventure with this unique two-door interpretation of a 4x4, clearly taking inspiration from estate cars and the third concept car the Korean brand has showcased in recent weeks. The X Gran Equator targets buyers who want an elegant car for city driving alongside robust capability for exploring rugged landscapes.
Speaking to Electrifying.com at the New York Auto Show, Genesis' Chief Creative Officer Luc Donckerwolke stated: “We went bold with this car. But it’s not an off-road car in the traditional sense, it still maintains an elegant presence.”
Alongside its strikingly long bonnet, the Genesis X Gran Equator features a practical split-opening rear tailgate and integrated roof bars. Slim windows and dark wheel arches complement the impressive 24-inch beadlock wheels, while Genesis' distinctive two-line headlamp and tail-light designs ensure instant recognition.
Inside, Genesis says that the X Gran Equator "orchestrates contrast between analogue architecture and digital technologies." Unusually, there is no huge digital screen; instead, the interior showcases four circular displays inspired by vintage camera dials.
Genesis wouldn’t be drawn on the likelihood of them actually building it, instead telling us that it points to future “design language and features”. This means we could expect some of its features to make an appearance on its forthcoming seven-seat range topping SUV, the GV90. This will be the Genesis version of the Kia EV9 and Hyundai Ioniq 9 and will share technology with its sibling vehicles, so we can expect strong efficiency and rapid 800V charging capability.
The GV90 is expected to debut later this year at the Los Angeles Auto Show - a clear indication of the importance of the US market to Genesis - with UK prices anticipated to start around £85,000.
