Genesis hints at GV80 coupe with concept

Genesis presented a four-passenger, coupe-style version of the GV80 crossover as a design concept in the run-up to the New York Auto Show that kicks off Wednesday.

The automaker said the concept "serves as a statement of intent for the future, hinting towards more emotional and performance-oriented models." It was unveiled late Monday at the brand's Genesis House showroom in New York.

Shown in a deep orange color called Magma, the GV80 Coupe Concept features design elements from other Genesis vehicles, notably a long hood with a rakish profile and windshield. As such, it appears more like a production-ready vehicle rather than a wild, futuristic concept.

"The GV80 Coupe Concept's front fascia sports the Double G-Matrix Patterned Crest Grille surrounded by quad lights, which have evolved from multi-lens array technology to seamless light performance," the automaker said. "Cooling is optimized by four slots within the bumper that reduce shadowed thermal flow."

Other luxury brands such as BMW, Audi and Mercedes have successfully employed coupe and sportback versions of standard crossover and SUVs to project sportiness, often as an alternative to sedans. They are typically priced higher as well.

Genesis did not disclose what powertrain configuration propels the GV80 concept. The automaker has said it won't present any new combustion-engine models after 2025. The GV80 is offered with four-cylinder and six-cylinder gasoline engines.

Genesis said the GV80 Coupe Concept was inspired by the X Speedium Coupe Concept shown in New York last year.

Genesis' rear-wheel-drive platform provides the platform for the GV80 Coupe Concept's elongated hood and abundant dash-to-axle proportions, the company said.

"These refined proportions are further emphasized by the anti-wedge parabolic line," Genesis said. "It is complemented by the muscular blisters and fenders that contrast with the vehicle's elegant coupe silhouette."

The concept's interior is equipped with four sport seats, a three-spoke steering wheel and black Nappa leather and suede with plaid double-stitching, orange piping and carbon-fiber weaves, the company said.

"At its inception, the Genesis brand began creating luxury sedans, which evolved into the G70, G80, and G90 models," said Luc Donckerwolke, chief creative officer for Hyundai Motor Group.

"Over the past seven years, we have added more lifestyle-oriented models to the portfolio, such as our GV80 and GV70 SUVs," Donckerwolke said. "Now we are pushing the envelope with more emotional cars that elevate Genesis' performance and dynamic attributes."