The Korean brand combines an athletic design with state-of-the-art technology.
The South Korean car manufacturer Genesis Motor LLC, better known as Genesis, is still new to the United Kingdom. After entering the country in 2021, the brand has accelerated into the electric vehicle market. Now, it has launched the new Electrified GV70. FACT was invited to test drive the cars in the calm countryside of Haslemere – and found it to be a refined and refreshing ride.
It all starts before you strap on your seatbelt. Today, there are showrooms in London’s Battersea Power Station, Westfield London, and Edinburgh’s Multrees Walk. Thanks to Genesis’ personal assistants, they come to you for test drives, handovers and servicing. Simon Branney, Head of UK PR and Communications, explains: “When we launched the brand, we came to the market trying to offer something different, which was a service-led proposition. We are still focused on hospitality and son-nim, which means cherished guest in Korean”.
Most people purchasing a Genesis are conquest customers – first-timers to the brand. Over the years, the customer base has evolved: large SUVs and saloons have proven especially popular with men, while EVs have appealed to both men and women. One thing that buyers have in common is that owning a car rarely seen on the road has become a unique selling point. Genesis One of One allows for personalisation, from the colours to engravings. The service is currently available in the Middle East, but has not yet launched in the United Kingdom.
Jonny Miller, Brand Director of Genesis Motor UK, enthuses: “I remember a customer said, ‘I’m buying a Genesis, and I want to be the first person in Sheffield to have it.’ That mindset has continued among our customer base – people who are doing well and want to stand out from the crowd.”
Genesis Electrified GV70
The Genesis Electrified GV70 marks the brand’s first new launch in the United Kingdom in two years. The popular SUV has had an upgrade, with an elegant design and state-of-the-art technology. The models include Pure, Dynamic and Luxury.
The first thing that caught our eye was the redesigned bumper, which creates a sleek and sporty first impression. The trademark two-line headlights incorporate Micro Lens Array technology, which provides precise and powerful lighting. And inside, it boasts Milky Way-inspired mood lighting.
At the heart of the interior is a carefully curated cockpit, featuring a 27-inch OLED display. The expansive widescreen includes voice recognition and a camera-based navigation system, offering both convenience and innovation. While the map interface wasn’t as intuitive as we had hoped, the remote smart parking system helps keep you on track.
The electrified GV70 is equipped with Virtual Gear Shift technology, which offers a deeper level of control and engagement. The features include a Smart Regenerative Braking 2.0 system with iPedal. The dual motor powertrain features 180kW electric motors at the front and rear, delivering 490PS and secure all-wheel drive.
When it comes to charging, the vehicle features an 84-kWh lithium-ion battery and an 800V architecture, resulting in an increased WLTP range of 298 miles on a single charge. This means it can recharge from 10 to 80 per cent in 19 minutes, and deliver an extended WLTP range of 298 miles.
The optional Serenity Pack is a post-COVID-19 essential. It includes an air aroma diffuser, sanitising centre console storage compartment, and UV-C light that eliminates 99.99 per cent of bacteria in ten minutes.
When it comes to those long drives, passengers can now enjoy a wider selection of entertainment. Netflix, YouTube, Bloomberg TV+, Bloomberg Originals, Disney+, and a live news feed are available. Plus, if you want to hear your sounds in style, it is equipped with a 15-speaker Bang & Olufsen surround sound system and Active Road Noise Cancelling. So, you can focus on the beauty and brilliance of your drive.
Genesis Electrified GV70 prices range from £65,915 for Pure to £74,915 for Luxury.
GO: Visit www.genesis.com for more information.