Genesis GV80 Hybrid Powertrain Details Finally Emerge

Genesis has shared the first concrete details on the upcoming GV80 Hybrid, a new electrified version of its mid-size luxury SUV that is expected to hit the market sometime next year. 5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motors, producing a combined 347 horsepower. 5-liter V-6.

, with more specifics, including launch timing, promised for later this year. While official fuel-economy numbers haven’t been released, Genesis claims a 25 percent improvement in mpg over the nonhybrid four-cylinder powertrain when equipped with rear-wheel drive and 19-inch wheels.

5T is EPA-rated at 22 mpg combined, that would translate to roughly 27 mpg combined for the hybrid. 5T does.

Visually, the GV80 Hybrid looks nearly identical to its conventional sibling, aside from a revised grille and new wheel designs. Inside, it introduces a Stay mode that keeps all vehicle functions running off the battery while stationary, so the engine won’t switch on during extended idling.

There’s also a driving mode that automatically adjusts regenerative braking intensity based on navigation data and the distance to the vehicle ahead. With this launch, Genesis enters the hybrid luxury SUV segment, though many competitors, such as the Volvo XC90. BMW X5, and Mercedes-Benz GLE-class, offer plug-in hybrid options rather than a standard hybrid setup.