The Genesis GV80 is only the first of three planned SUVs coming from Korea’s upstart luxury brand.
While we’ve seen plenty of spy shots of the midsize model so far, the smaller GV70 crossover has slipped under the radar. Not anymore, though, as the compact luxury SUV has been spotted for the first time testing on the Nürburgring Nordschleife.
While the name is not confirmed yet (some sources claim it will be called GV60), the new compact luxury crossover seems to be in a rather advanced development stage. We say this because the prototype doesn’t seem to feature any padded camo — though it’s fully wrapped in tape.
Also read: Genesis USA’s New Boss Hails From Audi – Just In Time For SUV Expansion
Mind you, the taillights are not production-spec, but the rest of the car looks like the real deal. Compared to the larger GV80 which will rival the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE and the like, the GV70 will attempt to steal sales from the BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC and other models from the compact luxury SUV segment.
Therefore, it will be to the GV80 what the G70 is to the G80. The styling will make the connection to the GV80 clear but the GV70 will adopt a sportier appearance thanks to a coupe-like profile and a lower stance. At the front, Genesis’ corporate grille is flanked by split horizontal headlights that appear similar to those on the GV80.
However, the design of the front bumper looks more aggressive courtesy of two recessed side air intakes. The profile appears athletic thanks to the big wheels and pronounced rear haunches, while the rear continues the sporty theme with massive tailpipes placed in a diffuser-like element. The taillights may be provisional, but the cutouts on this prototype give away their shape which will also echoes the GV80.
Since the GV80 shares underpinnings with the upcoming G80 sedan, the Genesis GV70 is likely to use the same platform as the G70 sedan. Expect the Korean compact luxury SUV to offer the same engine lineup including a 252 HP 2.0-liter turbo-four and a 365 HP 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6. AWD will definitely be on the menu but we don’t know if Genesis will also offer the GV70 in RWD configuration. The Genesis GV70 is expected to debut in early 2021, about a year after the launch of the GV80.
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