Genesis is reversing course on its EV-only strategy with a new GV80 Hybrid and gives its large luxury SUV petrol-electric power for the first time. Genesis made the hybrid models to meet demand in global markets where buyers aren’t moving to EVs as quickly as expected.
The new hybrid powertrain comes with small equipment, badging and trim changes. The GV80 Hybrid will launch in its home market, South Korea, in September 2026, while Australian buyers can order it in 2027.
The premium electrified GV80 large SUV could directly compete with the Lexus RX Hybrid (350h/500h) and become an alternative for European PHEVs like the BMW X5 xDrive50e, Mercedes-Benz GLE 400e, and Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid. Chinese marque SUVs like the BYD Denza and Avatr can also challenge it.
Australia will get Genesis hybrids in 2027
Genesis Australia has confirmed that its new hybrid powertrains will arrive locally in 2027 but hasn’t finalised the timing or specifications for individual models, including the GV80 Hybrid. The current Australian GV80 offers just one drivetrain: a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 petrol engine without electric assistance.
A new hybrid powertrain and more efficiency
The upcoming GV80 Hybrid uses Hyundai Motor Group’s first 2.5-litre turbocharged rear-wheel-drive parallel hybrid system, and it’s the same engine that powers the latest-generation Hyundai Palisade SUV. The system combines the petrol engine with two electric motors integrated into a new transmission.
| Specification | 2027 Genesis GV80 Hybrid |
|---|---|
| Drive type | Rear-wheel drive |
| Combined power output | 259kW |
| Combined torque output | 530Nm |
| Transmission | Seven-speed automatic |
| Acceleration (0-100km/h) | 7.1s |
The 530Nm figure matches the torque output of the existing V6 variant. Genesis also claims the hybrid will cut fuel consumption by 25% compared with the base non-hybrid 2.5T petrol model.
The new transmission uses two electric motors. The P1 motor works as a starter-generator and also forms part of Hyundai Motor Group’s Active Shift Control (ASC) hybrid transmission system, which allows the transmission to deliver faster and smoother shifts. The P2 motor handles vehicle propulsion and regenerative braking.
Genesis has also improved cylinder flow and introduced a high-efficiency combustion cycle designed specifically for hybrid operation. On top of that, the GV80 Hybrid introduces Hyundai Motor Group’s first liquid-cooled hybrid battery system.
Also read: Luxury SUV Genesis GV90 revealed with pillarless doors
Small styling changes inside and outside
Genesis hasn’t redesigned the GV80 for the hybrid launch, but it does get a revised grille and updated wheels. Inside, buyers can choose from four new two-tone colour combinations based around: Obsidian Black, Taiga Green, Ultramarine Blue, and Travertine Beige. Genesis also adds two new types of genuine wood trim.
It starts in EV mode
The GV80 Hybrid uses an EV driving mode until it reaches about 30km/h when it starts to improve efficiency and reduce noise, and the system is programmed to favour EV driving during stop-start traffic and when the vehicle sits through a series of red lights. The electric motor also handles reversing.
A smart regenerative braking system adds another efficiency feature – it assesses navigation information, including speed-camera locations and the distance between vehicles, before automatically selecting the appropriate level of regenerative braking.
Genesis has also given the hybrid a lower final-drive ratio than the GV80 2.5 Turbo to reduce noise.
The GV80 Hybrid also introduces a stationary Stay Mode which allows comfort features such as climate control to continue operating while the vehicle remains parked, using electric power extensively.
The GV80 Hybrid represents more than another powertrain option because, with this unveiling, it has moved away from its previous commitment to become an EV-only brand. The company now plans to use hybrid technology to respond to global market demand while continuing its move towards electrification.
The parallel hybrid system is designed to seamlessly integrate into both existing GV80 body types: SUV and Coupe, and the mid-sized GV70 SUV and G80 sedan are also expected to receive hybrid variants closely adapted from the GV80’s mechanical layout.
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