2023 Genesis GV60 Quick Spin: Electrifying Performance

Genesis has been growing its lineup of luxury vehicles, and the all-electric 2023 GV60 is the latest model to join the range. It features standard all-wheel drive, up to 248 miles of EPA-estimated range and, like many electric SUVs, melds hatchback and four-door-coupe design cues. The result is a sporty-looking electric vehicle that hints at the performance potential of its electric drivetrain.

Related: Genesis GV60 Makes Surprise Appearance as Brand’s First All-Electric SUV

We had our first chance to experience the GV60 at the Midwest Automotive Media Association’s Spring Rally in Elkhart Lake, Wis., where Genesis brought its EV’s more powerful Performance trim level. While the base Advanced trim makes 314 horsepower, the Performance version gets a more powerful front motor for a total output of 429 hp. Other performance-oriented changes include beefier brakes, an adaptive suspension and an electronic limited-slip differential. Here’s what this version of the GV60 is like to drive.

Quiet Sportiness

The GV60 Performance has a firmly tuned suspension, but it handles bumps well without any harshness. It also exhibits limited body roll in corners and has responsive steering. There’s a premiumness to the driving experience that befits the GV60’s luxury badge, and it feels quite sporty overall.

It’s also quick; accelerate aggressively in the Sport drive mode and the GV60 shoves you back in your seat as it shoots forward. Genesis says the EV can go from 0-62 mph in 4 seconds when its Boost Mode function, which increases output to 483 hp for 10 seconds, is active.

The EV’s selectable one-pedal driving feature feels very natural, offering smooth transitions between acceleration and braking, depending on the position of the accelerator pedal. It felt more refined than the one-pedal driving in the all-electric Volvo C40 Recharge.

Outward visibility from the GV60’s driver’s seat is decent, with good forward and over-shoulder views, but the rear window is bisected by a horizontal bar. The bar isn’t overly large, but as in other vehicles that have this design, like the Toyota Prius, it restricts rearward visibility in a way that a single piece of glass doesn’t. Also, the GV60 doesn’t have a rear wiper to clear the glass when it’s raining, which further impedes visibility.

Familiar Yet Novel Interior

The Performance model has comfortable front bucket seats trimmed in Nappa leather, and the driver’s seat also includes a power cushion extension and power-adjustable side bolsters. The backseat is big enough to fit taller adults with headroom to spare, but it’s not the most comfortable space because of a low seat cushion that results in a knees-up seating position that doesn’t provide much thigh support.

Despite the GV60’s forward-looking EV drivetrain, its interior controls are familiar and straightforward — not always a given with EVs. The interior has its share of eye candy, including what Genesis calls the Crystal Sphere in the center console that rotates to reveal a rotary gear selector, but it doesn’t diminish overall usability. I’m not a fan, however, of the cabin’s many backlit silver-colored buttons, which are difficult to decipher when the GV60’s lights are on but it’s not completely dark outside, like during daytime rain.

There are two 12.3-inch widescreen displays — one for the instrument panel and the other for the multimedia system. The multimedia system can be operated by a rotary controller ahead of the Crystal Sphere gear selector, but the display is also a touchscreen if you prefer that type of interface, and the screen is easy to reach.

Pricing and Availability

The 2023 GV60 is on sale now, but not everywhere — initial availability is slated for California, Connecticut, New Jersey and New York. GV60 pricing starts at $59,985 for the entry-level Advanced trim level (all prices include destination), but at $68,985, the Performance trim is significantly more expensive. Eligible buyers can claim a federal tax credit of up to $7,500, and the GV60 may be eligible for additional state incentives.

If you’re in one of these launch markets and are shopping for a luxury EV, the GV60 is worth your consideration. While its overall driving range isn’t as long as a Tesla Model Y’s, the GV60’s focus on performance is similar, and it has more approachable interior controls.

More From Cars.com:

• Genesis Cracks Open GV60 Orders, GV70 EV Production Plans
• Get Your Face Ready, the 2023 Genesis GV60 Is on Sale
• What to Know Before Purchasing an Electric Vehicle: A Buying Guide
• Electric Cars With the Longest Range
• Shop for a 2023 Genesis GV60

Related Video:

Cars.com’s Editorial department is your source for automotive news and reviews. In line with Cars.com’s long-standing ethics policy, editors and reviewers don’t accept gifts or free trips from automakers. The Editorial department is independent of Cars.com’s advertising, sales and sponsored content departments.