Automaker Hyundai intends to introduce its high-end Genesis luxury brand in the Indian market.
Hyundai's Genesis GV80 Set to Make Indian Debut
Hyundai Motor India has announced its plans to bring the Genesis luxury brand to India, with the Genesis GV80 SUV leading the charge. The launch is expected to occur in late 2025 or early 2026, initially as a Completely Built Unit (CBU).
The GV80 will compete directly with established luxury SUVs such as the Mercedes-Benz GLE, BMW X5, Audi Q7, and Volvo XC90. Hyundai aims to offer a fresh alternative to traditional European luxury SUVs in India, blending performance, technology, luxury, and cost-effectiveness.
One of the key advantages of the Genesis GV80 is its competitive pricing. It is expected to start around ₹60 lakhs, aligning it with the pricing of models like the GLE 300d. The GV80 also offers strong performance, with powertrain options including a 3.5L gasoline turbo engine, delivering 0-100 km/h in about 5 seconds.
The GV80 is lighter than the Mercedes-Benz GLE and similar in weight to the BMW X5, partly due to the use of aluminum components. Advanced technology features such as Level 2+ Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), premium Lexicon audio system, connected car tech with over-the-air updates, and intuitive controls like dial-type gear shifters and handwriting-recognition touchpads are also included.
The interior of the GV80 is minimalist yet plush, focusing on a tech-first user experience with premium materials. Hyundai also plans to offer superior after-sales service and warranty packages compared to its German rivals, addressing frequent customer concerns about maintenance and spare part costs.
Electrification plans for the Genesis brand include hybrid and all-electric variants like the GV60, positioning Genesis well for future market trends. However, the specific models from Genesis that will be introduced in the Indian market have not yet been disclosed.
Tarun Garg is the Chief Operating Officer of Hyundai Motor India. The company has two manufacturing facilities in India, one at Sriperumbudur in Tamil Nadu, and another recently acquired facility in Maharashtra, which is set to begin vehicle production in Q3 FY2026. Initially, the Genesis cars are likely to be imported as CBUs, with potential for local assembly based on demand.
The Genesis GV70 and GV60 EV are also being evaluated for the Indian market by Hyundai. The Genesis cars are not explicitly mentioned as part of the 20 Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles or the 6 Electric Vehicles (EVs) that Hyundai plans to introduce in the Indian market over the next four years. The design of the Genesis GV80 was trademarked in India a few years ago.
[^1^]: Hyundai Motor India [^2^]: Genesis Motor
[^4^]: AutoCar India [^5^]: India Today
- The upcoming Genesis GV80, set to debut in India, promises to elevate the lifestyle of Indian automotive enthusiasts by providing a blend of industry-leading technology, superior performance, and cost-effectiveness in direct competition with established luxury SUVs from brands like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, and Volvo.
- The Genesis GV80's competitive pricing, starting around ₹60 lakhs, will make it an enticing option in the finance sector for car buyers in India who seek luxury and performance without breaking the bank.
- Upon its launch, the transportation industry in India can expect significant changes as the arrival of Genesis luxury cars, such as the GV80, offers an innovative alternative to traditional European luxury brands, potentially revolutionizing the luxury lifestyle market in the country.
