Genesis GV80 Coupé | Reissue success

To escape trivialization, the SUV explores new styles. And do not hesitate to meet with other car species either. Acura (ZDX), Nissan (Murano) and Land Rover (Evoque) were the precursors, without knowing the expected success. On the other hand, the formula has rather well succeeded in German manufacturers. Genesis would like to mingle with them, hence the presence of the GV80 coupé.

Genesis' aspirations are not yet satisfied, far from it. Born ten years ago, this Hyundai brand does not worry about the luxury firms established. However, Genesis respects the demanding specifications to the letter imposed by the very high end. The after-sales service is neat, the reliability seems solid, as well as the quality of manufacturing. And to forge a credibility, Genesis ensures that its products do not have a bad effect among the Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz, sure values ​​of the segment, but also its avowed targets.

Consequently, with great delay, of course, Genesis in turn adheres to this fashion phenomenon that is the SUV cut. We recognize this one in his curved profile and the gentle slope on which his telescope slips. Two elements that help create an athletic style, almost brutal. Apart from these peculiarities, the GV80 coupe keeps the same face as the GV80, which has been traveling our roads for a little over four years already.

The more slender forms of the GV80 coupe have less impact for the occupants of the rear seats (clearance for the head) than for the volume of the trunk.

Never mind, this Genesis should not be ashamed of comparison with the most elitist brands in terms of space or modularity. We appreciate the quality and uniformity of materials (padded) just as much, which are not limited to the upper part of the passenger compartment.

An electroluminescent slab, without interstice, covers the dashboard. This ensures to inform and distract the occupants of the front places. Navigation appears logical and easy, but slow. In addition, the two knobs placed on the central console (one for infotainment, the other to select the gearbox reports) are not an example of good neighborhood.

Visibility is, on the whole, very good with the exception of the pillars at the rear which harm in the execution of certain maneuvers. At the front, the wide and cozy seats are comfortable. They will be criticized for not offering enough support, given the “sporting” nature of this model.

The air, not the song

The forms of the GV80 coupe invite you to a sporting driving. Its mechanics too. This model exclusively adopts the most lively thermal engine of the brand: a V6 with a supercharging system composed of an electric compressor and two turbochargers operating in parallel (one per pair of cylinders). The idea is to produce high overeating pressure, but without perceptible response time.

With a 3.5 -liter displacement, this engine is proven enough to move the two tonnes of this vehicle, but not as velocious or as sober as the German mechanics.

Like the latter, the South Korean V6 requires an essence with a high index of Octane to look good. On a more positive note, the accompanying automatic transmission proves to be well staged. Only a little steep in the demotal phases.

Dynamically, the GV80 coupe is struggling to follow the rate of its competitors. Even by selecting Sport+mode, this Genesis does not offer a better balance or greater agility. Only management appears heavier, without being more precise. The rather firm suspensions, however, filter well the (many) imperfections of Quebec roads, despite the size and profile of the tires attached to it.

Only a driving lover will criticize the GV80 coupé for not meeting expectations on the sport. The esthete, as long as he is not too concerned about his image, does not care. The GV80 coupe turns heads. And this, at better price.