Genesis might be about to expand its electric ambitions with a rugged new luxury SUV. Spotted recently in South Korea, the vehicle features off-road upgrades and an EV powertrain, hinting that the brand’s next adventure-ready SUV could be fully electric.
Genesis Celebrates 10 Years with Bold Plans
This year marks Genesis’ tenth anniversary, and the luxury brand is preparing a lineup of new vehicles, including a flagship full-size electric SUV, high-performance cars, and a luxury off-roader. While the ultra-luxe GV90 is confirmed to be electric when it launches in 2026, details about the new off-road SUV remain scarce.
Hyundai, Genesis’ parent company, confirmed at last month’s CEO Investor Day that Genesis will offer vehicles across all powertrains, rather than going fully electric as initially planned. This leaves room for the off-road SUV to arrive as an EV, hybrid, or extended-range model.
First Look at the Off-Road SUV
Our first glimpse of Genesis’ off-road ambitions came in April with the X Gran Equator Concept. Genesis described it as its “first adventure vehicle concept,” marrying on-road sophistication with off-road resilience. While the concept teased adventure-ready styling and premium refinement, production plans were never confirmed.
Now, modified test vehicles spotted in South Korea give a clearer picture. Images shared by user hscarstory show a Genesis Electrified GV70 outfitted with off-road upgrades, including a tuned suspension, larger tires, and a prominent front tow hook—a feature common to Hyundai’s XRT testing program.
These modifications suggest Genesis may be developing a new off-road-focused trim or even a separate adventure-oriented sub-brand.
What We Know About Launch and Powertrains
The off-road SUV is expected to arrive as a 2027 model, though Genesis hasn’t confirmed an exact timeline. The brand will introduce its first hybrid GV80 next year, and an extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) based on the GV70 is planned for late 2026 or early 2027. This raises the possibility that the off-roader could come with multiple powertrain options, including hybrid or EREV versions.
Meanwhile, the GV90, Genesis’ flagship electric SUV, is set for a mid-2026 launch on Hyundai’s new eM platform, showing the brand’s commitment to electrification.
Can Genesis Compete in the Electric Off-Road Market?
With Rivian’s R1S and an upcoming all-electric Range Rover on the horizon, Genesis’ off-road EV—or hybrid—will face stiff competition. Still, the blend of luxury, off-road capability, and electrification could carve out a unique niche for the Korean brand.
As the official debut approaches, expect more details on design, features, and performance. For now, the new Genesis off-road SUV promises to combine adventure with premium sophistication—potentially in electric form.
