Genesis has revealed its largest model to date, the GV90, which serves as the Korean marque’s answer to the Rolls-Royce Cullinan.
Measuring 5,285 mm long, 2,030 mm wide, and between 1,815 mm and 1,825 mm tall, with a 3,245 mm wheelbase, the GV90 is an absolute unit of a full-size SUV. That height variation depends on whether the GV90 sits on 22-inch wheels or uncommonly massive 24-inch items.
Built on the eMP platform, the Genesis GV90 can trace its roots back to the Neolun Concept unveiled in 2024. The production GV90 is almost a carbon copy of it. The only word to describe the exterior design is minimalist, to the point where you have to look twice to check if it is a production car or a concept. Front and centre are the wrap-around daytime running lights, whilst the rear features double-tiered, full-width tail lights.
However, the party trick of the GV90, specifically on the Neolun variant, is what the company calls the Neolun Arch Gate. This system represents the world’s first independently opening hidden B-pillar coach doors, delivering rear-hinged suicide doors without a central pillar.
Genesis achieved this using a dual-motion hinge mechanism that slides the rear door slightly outwards before rotating it open, ensuring the chassis and rear doors do not obstruct the front doors.
To address safety concerns surrounding the absence of a traditional B-pillar, Genesis went overboard by building its flagship with high-strength dual steel beams for rigidity and integrating a concealed roll-cage. It even went so far as to develop the world’s first roof airbag, covering the entire panoramic roof to prevent occupant ejection during a rollover.
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The SUV also features an in-cabin monitoring system advanced enough to identify occupant types and seating statuses to optimise airbag and seatbelt control during collisions. It can even alert occupants to improper seatbelt usage and seating posture, effectively acting as an automated backseat driver.
Safety tech aside, the GV90 is packed with luxury features. On the uber-luxury Neolun variant, it is configured as a four-seater with motorised swivelling front seats that create a lounge-like space, a real wood veneer floor in the second row replicating Korea’s traditional underfloor heating system, soft semi-aniline leather, a refrigerator, integrated tables, and an electrochromic panoramic sunroof dubbed the Smart Vision Roof.
The standard Genesis GV90 is a seven-seater featuring several elements from the Neolun, including its premium upholstery. Other features include a 25-speaker Bang & Olufsen Premier 3D sound system with 7.1.4-channel Dolby Atmos sound, alongside Ambient Glow mood lighting.
Upfront, the driver and passenger share a pop-up 23.6-inch OLED Cinematic Display integrating the instrument cluster, navigation, and media. Instead of going full Tesla with the screen approach, Genesis has given the driver a 25-inch Head-Up Display (HUD), allowing drivers to check speed, navigation prompts, and ADAS functions at a glance without taking their eyes off the road. When parked, the main display expands to 24.6 inches, enabling occupants to enjoy a wide variety of multimedia content.
Genesis states the GV90 features an all-wheel drive powertrain comprising two traction motors. The front motor produces 326 hp (240 kW) and 350 Nm, whilst the rear motor makes 340 hp (250 kW) and 450 Nm, producing a combined 666 hp and 800 Nm. This output is managed by a Dual E-LSD, making the GV90 the first Hyundai Motor Group vehicle to feature the technology.
Powering the traction motors is a 123.5 kWh battery that enables an estimated range of 500 km, based on internal testing. DC fast-charging up to 350 kW enables a 10-80% recharge in 22 minutes.
To keep all that weight in check, Genesis fitted a multi-chamber air suspension alongside active rear-wheel steering. With rear wheels that turn up to five degrees, manoeuvring this massive SUV through tight streets and parking spots becomes significantly easier.
Genesis has yet to announce official pricing for the GV90, though its feature set positions it firmly in the ultra-luxury tier. Whether it can entice Korean chaebols away from their usual European luxury choices remains to be seen.
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