We take the Genesis GV60 Efficiency for a spin – an EV with poise

It’s been a number of years since we bought behind the wheel of Genesis’ flagship devoted EV, the GV60. Again at launch, the GV60 bought a number of issues proper, mixing the ascendant EV know-how of Hyundai with a extra refined and refined design language. It arrived at some extent when standalone luxurious EVs have been nonetheless comparatively skinny on the bottom, however now there’s way more competitors. Time for a face-lift.

We drove the highest tier Efficiency variant, quickly to be eclipsed by the even faster GV60 Magma. Whether or not or not that extra velocity is critical is a moot level, particularly because the Efficiency is already considerably down on the vary determine of its completely satisfactory Pure sibling (311 miles versus 348, whereas the mid-range GV60 Sport will get 318 miles). Nonetheless, mileage is up on the first-generation automobile, because of the bigger 84kWh battery pack.

Aesthetically, there haven’t been any important upgrades. Straddling the zone between giant hatchback and medium-sized crossover, the GV60 just isn’t unattractive, with a protracted wheelbase, neatly outlined wheelarches and a rising shoulder line that lifts to satisfy the sloping rear window with a jagged slash of chrome. On the entrance, the acquainted Genesis double-stacked lights and curiously old-school winged badge create a recognisable face, though the rear therapy is a little more generic.

On the entire, the design is commendably restrained and low key. Though Genesis is a premium model, the GV60 doesn’t actually give off premium visible cues – no lengthy bonnet or flowing proportions. It’s extra of a refined, stealth wealth assertion, a approach of doing issues otherwise and stepping exterior the standard stream of Germanic design dominance. The GV60 Magma is the place you go for extra visible attract.

That is solely odd while you evaluate the GV60 to Genesis’ different choices, which embody the substantial, limo-like G80 (additionally accessible electrified) and the good-looking albeit standard GV70 and GV80 SUVs. The ideas teased alongside the announcement of the Magma badge trace at a extra aggressively styled future mannequin, however for now, the GV60 Efficiency carries the model’s sporting ambitions.

Nonetheless, regardless of the facility and velocity on faucet (and the presence of a outstanding ‘increase’ button on the steering wheel), the GV60 is extra of a cruiser than a sprinter. Genesis has even added a ‘drift mode’ to the GV60’s menu of choices, which theoretically makes the dealing with much less prone to digital security aids. We reckon nobody will ever trouble turning it on greater than as soon as.

As a substitute, whereas the inside isn’t precisely luxurious it’s a particularly nice place to take a seat for as much as 4 adults (5 may be accommodated at a stretch). Baggage area is appropriate, regardless of to the hatchback physique form, and the EV’s flat ground design permits for extra space for storing within the centre bin. There’s even a small frunk.

The central illuminated globe function stays, a backlit object of unsure provenance (the ‘crystal sphere’) that swivels spherical to offer the drive selector when the automobile is turned on. It’s a bit gimmicky, not like the facial recognition begin mode that allows you to entry the automobile with out a key. Genesis additionally wins factors by retaining a useful and wholesome unfold of bodily controls alongside the 27-inch-long touchscreen.

These trying to find an out-and-out efficiency EV will in all probability choose a Porsche Macan or Hyundai Ioniq 5N and even cling on for the GV60 Magma. The Efficiency mannequin is hardly a slouch, however its finest qualities are refinement and poise that calm the driving force, reasonably than quicken their pulse.

Genesis GV60 Efficiency, from £67,715, Genesis.com, @Genesis_Europe