When Genesis showed the Neolun concept two years ago, many saw it as another design fantasy that would never reach production. But the debut of the production GV90 proved the company was serious. The new flagship crossover not only made it to market but also closely follows the concept, with the only notable change being slightly larger side mirrors to meet regulations.
This is the Korean brand’s first full-size electric SUV, positioned above the GV80 in the lineup. Its main goal is to challenge established players such as the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV. And judging by what we’ve seen, Genesis plans to do that without relying on conventional solutions.
The first thing that stands out about the GV90 is the signature Neolun Arch Gate system, available on the top trim. It features rear-hinged doors without a B-pillar. Engineers developed a mechanism that allows the rear doors to open independently of the front doors. They first move slightly backward and then swing smoothly outward. The result is a huge opening that lets passengers step straight out without worrying about getting their suit or dress dirty. To compensate for the lack of a B-pillar, the engineers significantly reinforced the structure. The body structure is nearly 1.5 times thicker than that of conventional SUVs, while the doors use high-strength steel beams. The safety equipment also includes 12 airbags, including a unique roof-mounted airbag. In a rollover, it covers the panoramic glass roof, preventing passengers from coming into contact with the glass or being ejected from the vehicle.
A 3,247-mm wheelbase, almost as long as that of the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, provides an enormous amount of interior space. In the Neolun Executive Suite, the front seats can swivel 180 degrees, turning the cabin into something resembling a lounge. In the four-seat configuration, the rear row becomes a separate executive compartment with a natural-wood floor, refrigerator, partition separating it from the cargo area, and a six-zone glass roof with adjustable transparency.
The standard seven-seat version is no less impressive. It features natural wood or stone trim, cashmere inserts, and the same crystal-ball controller familiar from the GV60. There is no traditional instrument cluster — all information is projected onto the head-up display. Meanwhile, the 23.6-inch center screen can rise slightly while the vehicle is parked, turning the cabin into a movie theater, while a Bang & Olufsen audio system with 25 speakers can simulate the acoustics of concert halls.
The GV90 is available exclusively with electric power. The eMP platform gets a 123.5-kWh battery, the largest battery used in any Hyundai Motor Group model. The system operates at 800 volts, allowing the battery to charge from 10% to 80% in 22 minutes using a 350-kW charger.
The two motors produce a combined 657 hp and 800 Nm of torque. All-wheel drive is supplemented by electronic locking differentials on both axles.
This is the first such system for Genesis and is designed to improve handling through corners. Air suspension with adaptive dampers and rear-wheel steering, with up to 5 degrees of angle, provide comfort and maneuverability even for such a large vehicle. But the key question is range, which according to the company’s internal tests is around 500 kilometers. That is not a record for the premium segment or a battery of this size, but fast charging partly offsets the drawback.
The GV90’s exterior is almost an exact copy of the Neolun concept. It features narrow LED light strips at the front and rear, a G-Matrix grille with active shutters, clean side panels, and huge 22-inch wheels as standard, with 24-inch wheels available on the Neolun trim. The vehicle looks solid and imposing, resembling an expensive work of art more than functional transportation. The premium EV market is going through a difficult period right now. Consumer interest in the “green” agenda has cooled somewhat. Nevertheless, Genesis’ focus on unique design and an unprecedented level of comfort could prove decisive. Official pricing has not yet been announced, but the GV90 is clearly aiming to challenge the German heavyweights and even take on brands in the ultra-luxury segment.