Genesis Goes Mesh Crazy with Funky Luxury SUV Concept

The Genesis GV80 Concept is the brand’s first interpretation of a versatile, luxury SUV.

Bowing at the 2017 New York Auto Show, the Genesis GV80 Concept aims to strike a “perfect balance between elegance and versatility,” according to the Korean automaker. It further defines the company’s “Athletic Elegance” design language and features an advanced plug-in hydrogen fuel cell powertrain, although specifications were not announced. Not surprisingly, Genesis is putting focus on the concept’s design, interior and high-tech features rather than what resides under the hood.

Up front, there’s the signature Genesis crest grille, establishing a dominant center spine that runs through the length of the vehicle. Giving it a powerful, yet interesting stance, is the diamond motif mesh grille and wide-set horizontal quad headlights that encase jewel-like graphics. The paint finish is called Ice Granite, which works well in giving the impression of elegance and luxury. The muscular fenders house rather large 23-inch wheels that were designed to reduce weight and cool the brake system. A nice tough are the electronic door handles that sit flush underneath the crease line for enhanced aerodynamic performance and simplicity.

2017 New York Auto Show Coverage

The interior features a bridge instrument panel that spans door-to-door, designed to create a welcoming and spacious ambience. There’s a wide 22-inch curved display in the instrument panel, combining the precision of a classic speedometer with a digital display. The concept also has an innovative Human Machine Interface (HMI) that offers intuitive operation and function control through a new multi-function interactive controller with capacitive touch. Further adding luxury to the cabin are an ash wood lower center console and polished linear metal inlays that have capacitive touch capabilities.

Seating surfaces boast semi-aniline leather, while the door panels, seat inserts and center console side have quilted diamond stitching. The leather-wrapped upper instrument panel is contrasted with distinctive Architexture suede on the instrument panel bridge.

Last year, a leaked roadmap revealed Genesis hopes to have two SUVs on the market by 2020. This concept likely previews the larger of the two future models.