WHEN HOT HATCHNESS MEETS LUXURY REFINEDNESS, A SECOND LOOK AT THE 2024 GENESIS GV60

If you have never driven an EV, try it – then buckle up, buttercup, ’cause  missing out on the ride of your life! Picture yourself blasting off like a rocket ship, feeling the G-forces shove you into the backseat while your hands grip the wheel for dear life. That’s the electrifying experience of driving an EV for you! Well mostly.

When I tested the Genesis GV60 back in 2022, it was Genesis’ proper first take at an EV after launching their retrofitted Electrified G80 sedan and Electrified GV70 SUV. But what I thought was going to be an experience of perfection, I walked away with an awkward feeling of unfulfillment. Not that it didn’t try to blast me to the moon multiple times along the way, but it felt like something was missing. Now its back for a second go around, wearing a pastel paint brought back from the 1990’s and a white interior that is so sleek, it can make the middle-class feel poor.  

For 2024, not much has changed in the styling department. It continues to carry the lustrous, futuristic chic of something straight out of the Jetsons. However, for 2024, there was a change to the performance, but we won’t find that here on our example. The change adds in a rear-wheel drive version that uses a single 168kW electric motor with the 77.4kW battery pack producing 225-horsepower and delivers upwards of 295-miles of range, starting at $52,000. However, our example is the range topping Performance AWD delivering a staggering 429-horsepower with 235-miles range from two 168kW electric motors and the same 77.4kW battery pack.  

As is typical of electric vehicles, the GV60 boasts impressive acceleration capabilities. Activating the overboost system by pressing the green boost button on the steering wheel provides an additional burst of power for 10 seconds, unleashing a peak output of 483 horsepower that propels the vehicle from 0 to 60 mph in slightly over 3.5 seconds. This level of acceleration may exceed the comfort threshold of the average driver, but my goodness is it intoxicating. 

On the road, the GV60 demonstrates commendable proficiency. It delivers sublime steering responsiveness, maintains poised body control, and incorporates a sophisticated camera system that scans road conditions to aid the electronic adaptive damping system, resulting in a refined ride quality.  

Within the confines of the GV60’s cabin lies a harmonious blend of luxury and retro chic design elements. The opulent white leather seating exudes elegance, almost to the point where one hesitates to disturb its pristine allure, while the white suede headliner adds a touch of sophistication that discourages any unnecessary contact from passengers. Carrying a vintage-inspired styling cue on the dash it has a fresh demeanor, accentuated by features like the convenient drawer-like glove box, which adds a practical yet stylish flair to the space. 

However, a significant concern arises from its reliance on shared technology from its sister companies. Leveraging the same electric platform utilized by the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6, the GV60 adopts identical electric motors, batteries, and notable rapid charging capabilities, achieving an impressive 10% to 80% charge in less than 20 minutes through Level 3 quick chargers. 

While platform sharing is a common practice among mass production brands aimed at cost reduction, the Genesis GV60 commands a premium of nearly $10,000 over its counterparts. Despite offering similar features and capabilities, the considerable price disparity between the GV60 and its sister models may raise questions among prospective buyers regarding the value proposition of this premium marque. 

After driving the Gensis GV60 for a second time, there is a lot to love about this sassy sweetheart. If it was a puppy, I’d want to put it in my handbag and play with it all day long. However, at $71,320, my takeaway is still the same. While the Genesis GV60 is prettier with a much more premium interior; the Kia EV6 GT is just as much of a laugh for a lot less money.  

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