Concept cars are expensive endeavors, and represent little more than fanciful ideas intended for the public. They often preview what’s coming next from the automaker, or significantly influence the company’s portfolio for an entire generation, making it difficult to dismiss the Concept X Gran Equator as anything other than a hint of what’s to come from the luxury brand.
As soon as the concept debuted earlier this year, rumors began circulating that the SUV portended an off-roader that could compete with the Mercedes-Benz G-Class and Land Rover Defender. Off-road vehicles remain popular, and are profitable for automakers large and small.
while Genesis Hyundai has not confirmed that it will turn the
According to MuñozThe Gran Equator and its other recent concepts, “embody our ambition to deliver pioneering products that deliver exceptional experiences,” and the off-road vehicle is sure to offer Genesis buyers something unique. This is everything we know about the SUV so far.
What would Genesis be called?
Genesis X Gran Equator concept
Photo by: Genesis
Although Genesis calls the concept the X Gran Equator, the name is not in keeping with the brand’s current lineup. All of its SUVs feature the same ‘GV’ prefix with the corresponding number indicating the model, and the current lineup ranges from the GV60 to the GV80.
Genesis also develops what we expect to be called JV90which would likely be below any Halo vehicle based on the X Gran Equator. The GV100 seems a bit too simple for something the brand wants to be “adventurous”, but the GVX isn’t too bad if the brand wants to keep things cohesive.
What platform will you ride on?
Genesis did not reveal the platform that supports its concept. The automaker has a dedicated rear-wheel-drive architecture that it uses in the G80 and JV80Both are available with four-wheel drive. Genesis could easily replace this setup with a beefy all-wheel drive system if the brand is serious about launching an actual off-road halo vehicle.
The rear-wheel-drive architecture underneath the off-roader can accommodate a range of engines, giving any potential off-roader many powertrain options. However, if this was a halo vehicle, it would need to be something strong and capable.
What will power it?
Genesis never mentioned the concept’s powertrain, but the brand appears to have designed it as an electric vehicle. It lacked exhaust tips and featured a covered underbody, though we doubt it would still be a production electric car, considering current market trends. It will likely adopt the powertrain that Genesis already offers.
The GV80 is available with two engine options: a 300-hp 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and a 375-hp 3.5-liter V6. There’s also a hotter 3.5-liter hybrid V-6 on offer G90 Which produces 409 horsepower and 405 pound-feet of torque.
That’s roughly on par with the G550’s 3.0-liter turbocharged hybrid. Genesis could also offer a Magma version to compete with AMG, however This seems unlikely.
What will it look like?
Genesis Mercedes-Benz G-Class Rival Rendering by Motor1
Photography: Theophilus Chen Engine1
the X Great Equator The concept offers a glimpse of what a potential Genesis off-roader might look like when it debuts. Hyundai’s production cars aren’t much different from their concept previews.
The concept had short overhangs, a boxy front end with a long, flat hood, and a sloping roof, and we expect these design features to carry over to the production vehicle. It also features the brand’s striking ‘two lines’ lighting motif, which wraps around the front and back.
Inside, the concept lacked large screens, instead adopting round dials on the dashboard and physical controls on the floating center console. It looks more luxurious than rugged, with quality materials throughout and only four seats. The production version will likely look more traditional, with screens and a row of standard buttons.
How much can it cost?
If Genesis believes the concept will result in a halo vehicle, it will likely cost quite a bit. The GV80 starts at just under $60,000, and the GV90 is expected to cost more than that. We wouldn’t be surprised if the starting price for the Genesis off-roader hits the six-figure mark.
If he competes G-Classyou’ll need the latest luxury features and real off-road capabilities – even if no owner has ever used them. The G550 starts at around $150,000, while the trim starts at $150,000 Land Rover Defender 110 It starts at less than half that at $65,000.
When will it premiere?
Genesis hasn’t even confirmed that it will turn the X Gran Equator into a production car, making it a mystery as to when we could see such a model for the first time. Genesis will soon add the three-row GV90 SUV to its lineup. If an off-road model does arrive, it will likely be after the GV90, expected in mid-2026.
