- Genesis hints at a rugged, high-end SUV inspired by the X Gran Equator concept.
- The model could be sold alongside the upcoming Genesis GV90 flagship SUV.
- Specifications remain a mystery, but production feasibility has been confirmed.
The Genesis X Gran Equator concept was one of the most buzzed-about reveals at the New York Auto Show. And it looks like it’s more than just a flashy design study. Luc Donckerwolke, Genesis’ Chief Creative Officer and Chief Brand Officer, teased that a production version of this luxury off-roader could soon challenge some of the big names in the game, think Land Rover Defender, Lexus GX, and the Mercedes G-Class.
Is Genesis Going Overboard with SUVs?
Genesis already offers a diverse range of crossovers and SUVs, including the GV60, GV70, GV80, and the GV80 Coupe. Add to that the forthcoming production version of the 2024 Neolun concept – soon to be known as the GV90 – and it might start to feel like they’re churning out more SUVs than we really need. But according to the brand, there’s still room for more.
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Speaking to Australian media at the New York Auto Show, Donckerwolke hinted at the potential future of Genesis’ growing SUV lineup. As reported by CarExpert, he said:
“The X Gran Equator is a new potential addition to a lineup which is already quite big. In a couple of years we have reached a family of SUVs. We have shown last year there’s another one coming, a flagship SUV, very soon [GV90]. Now the question is: how do we position the Gran Equator within this lineup? How do we ensure there’s not going to be an overlap or cannibalization between those vehicles? I do believe there’s room for that.”
While we don’t yet have details on the X Gran Equator’s platform or powertrain, its rugged features and unique proportions suggest it could offer serious off-road capability, setting it apart from the rest of the Genesis lineup.
Of course, some of the more extreme elements, like the gigantic 24-inch wheels, might be toned down for production, but the concept provides a clear preview of what’s to come. Depending on whether the powertrain is electric, hybrid, or internal combustion, we might see some beefier cooling intakes up front. Features like the four sunroofs, swiveling seats, and split tailgate could also make it into the production version, making for a stylish and practical package.
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Hopefully, Genesis designers will retain the analogue-style dials and physical controls inside the luxurious cabin, as these details are a refreshing change in a world full of touchscreens.
Is It Actually Going to Happen?
Donckerwolke has confirmed that the concept is technically feasible: “Basically, the Gran Equator was designed by my team in a very short time. Like all the other projects, I make sure that because of my engineering team being involved in the project that all those projects are feasible, that we don’t have to face any big hurdles if we have to realize that would basically make the project unsuitable. From the technical point of view, the platform works, the technical side works, now it’s obviously the demand.”
Judging by the buzz following the concept’s debut, it seems there’s demand aplenty. “Everybody has called and asked, ‘When can I have it?’” Donckerwolke shared. “The reaction has been overwhelmingly positive, and we think this is a big step forward. It taps into that SUV emotion and goes back to the off-road capabilities that make these vehicles authentic.”
While Genesis hasn’t set a specific timeline for the Gran Equator’s market launch, we’re guessing it’s still a few years out. Given how long it typically takes to transition a concept into production, don’t hold your breath for anything before 2027. Fingers crossed, the gorgeous X Gran Coupe and X Gran Convertible concepts will also follow the example of the Neolun and the X Gran Equator in the future.
