Significant upgrades define 2023 Genesis GV60

SINCE the initial launch last year, Genesis has announced an upgrade to the two-variant GV60 small SUV line-up that ushers in a raft of new features and technology with a focus on Genesis Connected Services (GCS). It provides what the Korean manufacturer calls “ultra-connected convenience” that includes over the air (OTA) vehicle update capability.

Accompanying the additional equipment is a price jump of $4000 for both the GV60 AWD and the GV60 AWD Performance models to $107,700 and $114,700 respectively, plus on-road costs.

The GV60 has chalked up 80 sales since the start of the year with 19 last month (April) and faces competition from several electric contenders with AWD capability.

Perhaps the most direct competition comes from Volvo’s dual motor Recharge XC40 and C40 variants at $81,490 and $83,490 respectively, the BMX iX1 xDrive from $84,900 and the Mercedes-Benz EQA350 4Matic from $100,800 (all +ORCs).

Hyundai’s medium size Ioniq 5 AWD, which shares some of GV60’s underpinnings, starts from $77,500 +ORCs and Tesla’s Model Y AWD medium SUV is from $95,300 +ORCs.

In line with the Hyundai/Genesis software defined vehicle program that promises all new models to be ‘fully connected’ by the end of 2025, the GCS suite in GV60 facilitates an ultra-connected lifestyle possible with its advanced in-vehicle and smartphone-accessible features. A complimentary five-year subscription to GCS is provided with the vehicle.

The importance of OTA software upgrades cannot be overstated because it gives customers the convenience of wireless remote vehicle system updates to electronic functions in the car including powertrain performance, information, entertainment and safety parameters.

A useful novelty in this year’s GV60 is face connect and fingerprint start technology that allows users to unlock their vehicle using biometric facial recognition, start the vehicle with their fingerprint, recall personalisation settings for seat position, steering wheel, mirrors, and infotainment settings and to access other useful functions.

Bolstering primary safety and taking the airbag count to 10 are thorax airbags for outboard rear occupants.

In response to criticism from some quarters about EVs giving a ‘sterile’ drive feel, the GV60 now has a Virtual Gear Shift (VGS) system that Genesis says, “adds a new layer of driver involvement with a simulated sequential paddle gear-shift experience”.

Improving interior air quality, particularly in city driving and when travelling behind diesel vehicles, is an air purification system that monitors cabin air quality using a fine dust/particulate sensor to maintain a healthy and comfortable interior.

The GV60’s air-conditioning panel now reports on air quality inside the vehicle, to rate air quality as Good, Normal, Poor or Very Poor.

At a fairly basic level vehicle access is aided by extra ambient lighting in the GV60’s front footwells that provides a selection of colour choices. Adding a cosmetic dash of flair are colour coded and Genesis branded front and rear brake callipers.

A range of new colours is available with the 2023 Genesis GV609 update including Capri Blue Mica and Makalu Grey Metallic that replace the previous grey and blue hues, and Sao Paulo Lime is no longer offered.

Both GV60 models use a 77.4kWh battery with the lower priced AWD running 74kW front and 160kW rear electric traction motors while the AWD Performance has 180kW electric motors front and rear.

“The enhancements for 2023 GV60, our audacious, progressive and distinctly Korean dedicated electric vehicle, make an already compelling package even more enticing,” said Genesis Motors Australia’s Connal Yan.

“The debut application of Genesis Connected Services and Over-The-Air updates, along with Face Connect and Fingerprint Start contribute to making 2023 GV60 an ultra-connected, convenient and luxurious EV.”

Included in the GV60’s generous five-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty provisions is a five-year subscription to Chargefox facilities throughout Australia or a home AC charging appliance.

GV60 buyers also receive complimentary scheduled servicing (logbook) every 12 months or 15,000km for the first five years or 75,000 km, whichever occurs first, in addition to 24/7 roadside assist and access to a “Concierge Service and Courtesy Vehicle Service” for five years.