The facelifted Genesis GV60 arrives in Australia with subtle styling tweaks and a new rear-wheel-drive variant, but its premium positioning remains a niche play.
Sharing its E-GMP platform with the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6, the GV60 has always struggled to match their sales volumes.
For 2027, Genesis aims to sharpen the GV60's identity by introducing a single-motor RWD model and dropping the standard all-wheel-drive Performance version.
The new entry-level Advanced RWD starts at AU$88,300 (US$61,800) plus on-road costs, a significant reduction from the previous AU$103,700 launch price.
This cut reflects growing competition from more affordable Chinese EVs.
Design and Interior: Familiar Yet Premium
Exterior changes are minimal: reshaped bumpers, tweaked headlights, and new 19-inch wheels.
The cabin retains its upscale feel with high-quality materials and a mix of tactile controls and screens.
A standout update is the 27-inch infotainment and gauge cluster display, borrowed from Hyundai. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard.
The famous Crystal Sphere gear selector remains.
Genesis has also replaced the optional camera mirrors with standard wing mirrors, a practical move that avoids potentially costly replacements.
Standard equipment includes leather-appointed 12-way adjustable front seats, heating and ventilation, dual-zone climate control, and a full suite of safety aids.
Powertrain and Driving Experience
The Advanced RWD uses an 84 kWh battery and a single electric motor producing 225 hp (168 kW) and 258 lb-ft (350 Nm).
Genesis estimates 0-62 mph in around 7.5 seconds.
WLTP range is 561 km (348 miles), and a 10-80% charge can take as little as 18 minutes on a 350 kW charger.
Vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability delivers up to 3.6 kW.
Chassis updates include a low-friction steering U-joint and revised rear hydraulic bushings for reduced noise and vibration. The ride is impressively smooth, aided by thick acoustic glass.
Regenerative braking now offers a full auto mode that adjusts regen based on traffic, navigation, and upcoming intersections.
It works well in most situations.
Our test loop averaged 18.5 kWh/100 km over mountainous roads, slightly above the claimed 16.7 kWh/100 km combined cycle.
Verdict: A Polished EV for Discerning Buyers
The 2027 GV60 is a refined, comfortable, and stylish luxury EV.
It justifies its premium over the Ioniq 5 and EV6 with a more special interior and driving experience.
However, its cramped rear seats and high price limit its appeal.
Compared to rivals like the Lexus RZ (from AU$84,500) and BMW iX1 (from AU$79,900), the GV60 stacks up well but remains a niche choice.
It's an excellent option for those seeking a compact luxury EV, but it won't be a volume seller in a market flooded with larger, cheaper alternatives.
