The new era of Genesis: first contact with electric luxury between suvs and top-of-the-range saloons

The electric car market is undergoing a profound transformation, in which some models manage to stand out in terms of quality and innovation despite strong competition. In this context, Genesis (luxury brand of the Hyundai group) is consolidating itself as a solid reference point for the premium sector. The Korean manufacturer has succeeded in translating its own idea of luxury into zero-emission versions that focus on a balance between style, careful finishing and technology, offering a concrete alternative to classic European brands.

Getting on board the new Genesis GV70 Electrified 2026 means being in a spacious and well-finished environment. With a length of 4.72 metres and a wheelbase of 2.87 metres, the D-segment SUV offers excellent interior roominess and a versatile boot that increases from 503 litres to over 1,600 with the seats folded down. The cabin is dominated by a large 27-inch screen integrating navigation and instrumentation, while the use of soft materials and quality leather conveys an immediate sense of well-being.

During our test drive, the GV70 showed two distinct faces. Equipped with a 490 hp twin-engine powertrain and all-wheel drive, the car delivers high performance in complete safety, as demonstrated by the 0-100 km/h sprint in just 4.4 seconds. In Comfort mode, the car absorbs road bumps very smoothly thanks to a system that scans the asphalt in real time. Switching to Sport Plus mode, the character changes: the steering becomes more direct and the low centre of gravity provides unexpected agility. Very interesting is the Virtual Gear Shifting function, which simulates, with sound, the gear shifts of a thermal car. And after so many hours at the wheel, a nice back massage, made directly from the seat, also starts.

The 84 kWh battery is designed to make recharging anxiety a thing of the past: with a (claimed) range of 479 km in the mixed cycle and even up to 617 km in the city, both daily commutes and more demanding journeys can be easily managed. The real trump card, however, is the 800 Volt architecture. Thanks to this technology, stops at the ultra-rapid charging stations are extremely short: with a power output of up to 240 kW, it takes just 19 minutes to go from 10% to 80% charge. The list price starts at EUR 73,000.

For those who prefer classic lines, the G80 Electrified confirms the brand's ability to maintain aesthetic continuity with traditional models. The 2026 version grows in size, reaching 5.14 metres in length. Despite its size, agility is guaranteed by the four-wheel steering system, which reduces the turning radius and increases stability. Under the body beats a 370 hp (272 kW) twin-engine heart with all-wheel drive, capable of covering 0-100 in 5.1 seconds.