by Genesis hints at creating a rugged, high-end off-roader inspired by the X Gran Equator concept.
The model could be sold alongside the upcoming flagship off-roader Genesis GV90.
Specifications remain mysterious, but production feasibility is confirmed.
The Genesis X Gran Equator was one of the highlights of last week’s New York Auto Show, and it seems it wasn’t just an experimental design. Chief Creative Officer and Chief Brand Officer of Genesis Luc Donckerwolke hinted at the release of a production version of this luxurious off-roader, which could compete with the Land Rover Defender, Lexus GX, and Mercedes G-Class.
Genesis has a wide range of crossovers and off-roaders, including the GV60, GV70, GV80, and GV80 Coupe, which will soon be joined by . Adding another representative in the upper segment might seem excessive, but the company believes there is enough room.
During a conversation with Australian media at the New York Auto Show, Luc Donckerwolke dropped several hints about the future expansion of their off-roader lineup. As reports, the veteran designer said:
“The X Gran Equator is a potential new addition to the lineup, which already has a large number of crossover models. In a couple of years, we’ve added to the crossover family. Last year, we showed that another one, the flagship , is coming very soon [GV90]. Now the question is how we position the Gran Equator in this lineup? How can we ensure there won’t be delays or cannibalization between these vehicles? I believe there is room for it here.”
Genesis has not yet disclosed the platform specifications or powertrain of the X Gran Equator concept, but its unique proportions and rugged features suggest it could be much more capable for off-road trips compared to other models in the lineup.
Of course, some elements, such as the massive 24-inch wheels, might be scaled down for production, but the concept gives us an idea of what to expect. Depending on the type of powertrain (, extended range, hybrid, or internal combustion engine), the off-roader could get larger front ventilation outlets, while some unique features, such as the four hatches, rotating seats, and split rear bumper, might carry over to the production version.
Luc Donckerwolke confirmed that the concept is technically feasible: “Actually, the Gran Equator was developed by my team in a very short time. I always make sure that through the involvement of my engineering team in the project, all these projects are physically possible, that we shouldn’t face any serious difficulties if we have to implement it, which would actually make the project insignificant. From a technical standpoint, the platform works, the technical side works, now, obviously, demand”.
The Chief Creative Officer noted that after the concept’s presentation, it received positive feedback: “Everyone called and asked, ‘When can I get it?’. All regions were interested. I think this is a big step forward. It connects with the emotions of off-roaders, returning to the capability of off-roading, which truly makes those off-roaders honest and authentic.”
Genesis has not yet set a target date for the market launch of the off-roader aimed at off-road driving. However, estimating the time they usually need to transition from concept to production, we wouldn’t expect it before the year 2027. Let follow the example of Neolun and X Gran Equator in the future.
