First drive review | Updated Genesis GV60 makes more sense than ever
The GV60 – Genesis' posh crossover sitting on the same platform as the Ioniq 5 – has been given a mid-life update ushering in numerous tweaks. The changes make it a more appealing proposition than ever before.
The Genesis brand has been available for almost five years now, and no one can deny its ambitions. It might not be the most well-known premium brand, but it certainly makes up for any lack of brand recognition with outright tech and quality.
When it comes to brand perception, things have certainly taken a step up there too. Few brands have made such a big impact in such a short timescale.
Here’s our first drive thoughts on the revised GV60.
So what’s changed?
The updated GV60 hasn’t undergone a radical transformation – Genesis knows it didn’t need to. Instead, the focus has been on refinement, efficiency and usability.
The exterior gains a slightly cleaner look, with a simplified front end.
The exterior gains a slightly cleaner look, with a simplified front end that swaps out some of the chrome detailing for a more modern, body-coloured finish. New wheel designs and subtle tweaks to lighting signatures give it a fresher, more cohesive appearance.
Under the skin, there’s a slightly larger battery to boost range and charging performance. Genesis claims the dual-motor AWD model now offers a few extra miles of range, while updated software makes pre-conditioning for rapid chargers quicker and smarter.
There’s also improved efficiency thanks to updated motor calibration and a revised regenerative braking setup that feels smoother in operation.
Performance gives us a flavour of some exciting new Genesis Magma models that are expected to be revealed next year.
The Performance variant gets the most significant upgrades, borrowing some of its tech from the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N. This model also gives us a flavour of some exciting new Genesis Magma models that are expected to be revealed next year.
What about the interior?
If the GV60 impressed before, it now delights. The interior remains one of the most premium-feeling cabins in the segment, with superb material choices that give it a boutique feel. Genesis has added new upholstery colours and finishes, including a lighter palette that really makes the most of the car’s airy, minimalist design.
The standout Crystal Sphere gear selector remains.
The standout Crystal Sphere gear selector remains – a glowing orb that rotates to reveal the drive selector when you start the car – and it still feels like something straight out of a concept vehicle.
Elsewhere, display has been updated, with the infotainment and digital driver display now sharing a huge 27in integrated monitor. The system is quick-witted and better integrates its smartphone connectivity abilities and the Genesis Connected Services app than the outgoing model.
The standout Crystal Sphere gear selector remains.
Comfort and refinement are outstanding. The seats are supportive and adjustable in every way imaginable, while sound insulation is excellent even at motorway speeds. Small touches, such as soft-touch panels on door cards and sustainable materials on trim surfaces, underline Genesis’ attention to detail and environmental focus.
What about the drive?
The GV60 continues to sit on Hyundai Group’s excellent E-GMP platform – the same as the Ioniq 5, Ioniq 6, and Kia EV6 – and that means great balance, rapid performance, and superb refinement.
Great balance, rapid performance, and superb refinement.
The updated models retain their choice of powertrains: a rear-wheel-drive variant for those prioritising efficiency, and a twin-motor all-wheel-drive option for those wanting extra punch. The biggest change is a slightly larger battery pack (84kWh) boosting range while maintaining its impressive charging capabilities.
In everyday driving, the GV60 is serene and composed. The steering is light but precise, making it easy to manoeuvre, and the suspension does an excellent job of soaking up bumps without feeling floaty.
Three versions are on offer: Pure, Sport and Performance. The Performance is naturally the most impressive from a power perspective. Acceleration remains brisk – especially in the AWD Performance variant, which still packs the “Boost” button that temporarily unleashes full power for a 0-62mph sprint of around 4 seconds.
The Performance also gets adaptive dampers, which utilise a camera and sensors to scan the road and make the necessary adjustments to keep the GV60 composed.
The Genesis GV60 now feels more rounded and complete than ever.
Performance models also benefit from the virtual gearshift that we’ve seen on its sister car – the Ioniq 5 N. This essentially imitates the gears of a combustion car, allowing the driver to shift up and down using the steering wheel paddles that are usually just for adjusting the regenerative braking.
So should you lease one?
In short, yes. The Genesis GV60 now feels more rounded and complete than ever. With its blend of performance, refinement, and luxury, it competes convincingly with rivals like the Audi Q4 e-tron and Tesla Model Y – yet offers a more individual, less mainstream flavour.
It doesn’t come cheap, but for business users in particular the case for leasing one makes a lot of sense.
Genesis’ strong warranty (five years with no mileage cap) and inclusive servicing options mean peace of mind for the duration of your lease.
With the latest updates improving range, tech, and usability, the GV60 has matured into one of the most compelling electric crossovers to order in 2025.
In short: if you want premium EV comfort without following the crowd, the updated Genesis GV60 is a brilliant place to start.
