Genesis, Hyundai’s luxury arm, is preparing to introduce its first-ever hybrid model: the GV80 Hybrid, scheduled for release in September 2026. Both the GV80 SUV and GV80 Coupe will debut with the new drivetrain, marking the brand’s first step into hybrid power.
Hybrid System: P1 + P2 Architecture
The GV80 Hybrid will use a 2.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine driving the rear wheels, paired with Hyundai’s P1 + P2 hybrid layout:
- P1 motor: linked directly to the engine to improve fuel efficiency.
- P2 motor: delivers additional driving power, boosting performance and lowering fuel use.
This setup is already in use across other Hyundai and Kia models, where it has shown significant gains in efficiency.
Fuel Economy and Driving Range
Testing data suggests the GV80 Hybrid will deliver a substantial improvement over its petrol-only counterpart.
GV80 Hybrid (19-inch wheels):
- Fuel efficiency: 7.4 L/100 km
- Tank size: 80 litres
- Range: approx. 1,080 km
GV80 Coupe Hybrid (20-inch wheels):
- Fuel efficiency: 8.4 L/100 km
- Tank size: 80 litres
- Range: approx. 952 km
For context, the current petrol GV80 consumes between 10–11 L/100 km in real-world conditions, meaning the hybrid could cut fuel use by more than 25 per cent.
Performance Gains
Beyond efficient, the big draw for the hybrid system is the instantly available ~20% increase in power:
- Current 2.5-litre turbo GV80: 224 kW, 422 Nm torque
- Estimated hybrid output: ~270 kW, 460 Nm torque
That would place the GV80 Hybrid’s performance in line with rivals like the BMW X5 xDrive45e and Lexus RX 500h, both of which sit in the same large luxury SUV segment.
Features Borrowed from EVs
The GV80 Hybrid will also incorporate high-voltage battery functions seen in electric vehicles:
- Stay Mode: allows climate control and infotainment to run without the engine.
- Vehicle-to-Load (V2L): up to 3.6 kW of external power for appliances or tools, useful for camping or emergency use.
Timeline
Genesis plans to launch the GV80 Hybrid and GV80 Coupe Hybrid in Q3 2026, followed by a G80 Hybrid sedan in Q4 2026.
The move comes as hybrid and plug-in hybrid SUVs gain ground in Australia, where SUVs now make up nearly 55% of all new vehicle sales, and fuel prices continue to push buyers toward more efficient drivetrains.
