Time to say goodbye to the Genesis GV60 Performance.
When this car was delivered, I genuinely didn’t know what to expect. Having owned a Hyundai Ioniq 5 previously, and knowing both cars share Hyundai Motor Group’s E-GMP platform, I assumed it would feel familiar. Same underpinnings, similar tech, similar dimensions — so how different could it really be?
As it turns out… very different.Let’s Start With the Numbers
This is the Performance version, so we’re talking 490PS and 700Nm of torque. In simple terms, it’s properly rapid. Instant torque, strong mid-range shove and relentless acceleration when you want it.
It’s also AWD, which gives you a lot of confidence, especially when the weather isn’t ideal. You can deploy the power early out of corners without any drama. It just grips and goes.
Now yes, it’s not as powerful as the 650bhp Hyundai Ioniq 5 N — but let’s be honest, does anyone actually need 650bhp on the road? The GV60 Performance feels more than quick enough for real-world driving without tipping into the excessive.
It also supports the virtual 8-speed gearbox first introduced on the 5 N. You can choose to ignore it entirely and enjoy smooth, silent EV driving, or switch it on and add a bit of theatre when the mood takes you. It’s one of those features that sounds gimmicky on paper but is surprisingly enjoyable in practice.
Understated Is the Right Word
Externally, it doesn’t shout “Performance”. And I quite like that.
Yes, you get the 21-inch wheels and subtle visual tweaks, but unless you know what you’re looking at, it doesn’t scream for attention. In many ways, this is performance delivered quietly.
If you want something more aggressive visually, you’ll likely be waiting for the upcoming Genesis GV60 Magma. But for me, this more restrained approach works perfectly. It feels mature. Confident. Comfortable in its own skin.
Efficiency – Surprisingly Strong
Now here’s where it really impressed me.
This car is sitting on massive 21-inch Michelin Pilot Sport EV tyres and running AWD. On paper, that combination doesn’t exactly scream efficiency.
And yet, at motorway speeds, with the AC running, in barely double-digit temperatures, it was easily managing over 240 miles on a single charge. That’s proper real-world driving, not hypermiling.
On a dedicated eco run, it even exceeded its WLTP figure — which says a lot. For something pushing close to 500PS, that’s more than respectable.
Interior – Where Genesis Steps It Up
Because it’s based on E-GMP, interior space is excellent. Flat floor, good rear legroom, practical layout. But this is where Genesis really separates itself from its platform siblings.
The materials and overall finish are genuinely impressive. It easily gives brands like BMW, Audi and Mercedes-Benz a run for their money — and in some areas, I’d argue it feels fresher.
This particular car was fitted with the Bang & Olufsen audio system from Bang & Olufsen, and it’s excellent. Clean, powerful and perfectly suited to a cabin that already feels premium.
It’s that extra layer of luxury that makes the biggest difference compared to the Ioniq 5. Same platform, completely different atmosphere.
The Downsides
No car is perfect.
Being the AWD version, the frunk is very small. Almost token. If you’re expecting meaningful extra storage under the bonnet, you won’t find it here.
The turning circle is also frustratingly wide — exactly the same as my old Ioniq 5. In tight spaces, you notice it. At least in this case, the AWD setup partially justifies it, but it’s still not ideal.
That said, these are minor complaints in the bigger picture.
Price
With the options fitted, this car comes in at over £72,000. It’s not cheap.
However, when you look at the level of performance, the build quality, the luxury touches and the standard equipment, it starts to make sense — especially when compared to similarly specified German rivals. There are also some competitive finance offers available, which could make it more appealing depending on how you’re buying.
Final Thoughts
The Genesis GV60 Performance has genuinely surprised me.
I expected it to feel like a more premium Ioniq 5. What it actually feels like is its own thing entirely. Faster than most people will ever need, comfortable enough for daily use, efficient enough to live with easily, and finished to a standard that puts it firmly in premium territory.
Genesis does luxury really well. And if you’re looking at electric SUVs from the traditional German brands, this absolutely deserves to be on your list.
Understated, quick and impressively well rounded — a performance EV that doesn’t need to shout to make its point.