So far, Genesis models that we’ve tried have impressed with their premium feel and attention to detail inside rather than the drive itself. Plus, high BIK figures mean they’re currently a marginal fleet choice, only appealing to user chooser buyers.

Well, the GV60 could be the car to change this, being based on the electric-global modular platform (E-GMP), which we know should equal impressive range and decent driving dynamics. 

Outside, whereas the Hyundai Ioniq 5 is overtly retro, and the Kia the EV6 is more of a sporty, modern crossover, the GV60 perhaps looks the most SUV-like of the three. It’s an evolution of the current Genesis design theme, with the expected four-dash head and taillights and the same distinctive grille. More interesting are the parabolic lines down the flanks, the Range Rover-like clamshell bonnet, and the unusual “Volt” signature where the window line meets the glassy boot with its large rear spoiler. 

Inside, the GV60’s basic dash architecture is pure Ioniq 5, as is the switchgear and infotainment. However, with its mostly more premium-feeling metal and soft leather trim, the Genesis looks and feels more luxurious. Interior design highlights include the glovebox, which is a draw like the Ioniq. Then there’s the Crystal Sphere, which is the gear selector, and flips when the start button is pressed.

Like the Hyundai and Kia, the most striking element of the dashboard, is the curved 12.3in infotainment screen, which houses both the instruments and infotainment. With another version of the floating centre console, housing the Crystal Sphere and start/stop button. Genesis claims it has minimised the switchgear in the GV60’s interior, but it have certainly made up for the lack of buttons on the dashboard by filling the over-complicated, thick, two-spoke steering wheel. Also worthy of mention is the optional Bang and Olufsen sound system. The 17-speaker surround sound system delivers powerful, but impressively crisp and clear sound. Put simply it is the best sound system we’ve tried in an EV – but it’s a £990 option.

At 4,515mm, the GV60 is the shortest of the three E-GMP platformed cars; as such there’s plenty of space in the front, although with roughly 10mm less than the EV6, rear legroom is less accommodating. Although taller than the EV6, that curvy roofline eats into rear headroom, too. There is also a practically shaped, if shallow, 432-litre boot, that can be extended with the rear seat folded. There is also an extra 53-litre front trunk (frunk), which is reduced to 20 litres for AWD models. 

Premium is the entry-level rear-drive trim if you can call a £47,005 car an entry-level model. Sport is only available as an AWD version, priced at £53,605. Range-topper is the Sport Plus in AWD form, which is priced at £65,405. This sounds a lot, but this is the highest-performance version with an incredible 483hp, acceleration to 62mph in four seconds and a top speed of 146mph. 

As you’d expect, the GV60 is fitted with the latest safety and convenience features, including lane keep assist, highway drive assist and smart cruise control.  

All GV60 models have the same 77.4kWh battery and 88-volt charging ability, making it possible to fast charge from 10-80% in just 18 seconds. RWD Premium has one motor, 226hp and a 321-mile range. Sport and Sport Plus models are AWD versions, with 315hp and 483hp respectively. However, the range drops to 292-miles for the Sport and 289-miles for the Sport Plus. We got to drive two European specification models, although as far as we could tell specifications mirror what we will be getting in the UK; a RWD model in Premium specification and the range-topping Sport Plus equipment grade. Being EV models, both started quietly, their refinement impressing first. The ride is another highlight, with the Genesis having a more sophisticated, Germanic feel than the others. Some of the low-speed floatiness of all EVs is apparent, but in general it is much better suppressed than the Hyundai and Kia. In fact, usually the larger 21in rims offer a touch more refinement, as the Sport Plus we drove was fitted with Road Preview and Electronically Monitored Suspension, which does as it says and monitors the road adjusting the suspension to suit.  

There are three GV60 driving modes; like before eco mostly seems to retard the throttle, sport on the other hand makes the throttle more responsive. Normal mode is the best for everyday driving. There is also drift mode and a boost button on the Sport Plus version – the button gives a noticeable extra 20kW power boast from each motor for 10 seconds. 

Both were fun to drive and tidy handlers, but you’re always aware of that weighty battery. The RWD GV60 is less sporty and more refined than the EV6, although the steering remains precise. In the Sport Plus version, you can’t fail but be impressed by the performance and just when you’re used to the sharp acceleration in Sport mode – the Boost Button moves the performance up to another level.  The AWD grip levels are higher, with the handling even more composed and secure – but despite the hike in performance, we’re not sure we were having much more fun.  

An impressive performer, that’s decent to drive, with a plush and spacious interior – the GV60 is the best car Genesis makes and a very good electric car.

Genesis GV60 RWD Premium  

P11D: £46,950

Residual value: 46.4%

Depreciation: £25,162

Fuel: £3,665

Service, maintenance and repair: £1,780

Cost per mile: 51.01p

Range: 321 miles

CO2 (BIK %): 0% (2%) 

BIK 20/40% a month: £15/£31

Luggage capacity: 432 litres

Engine size/power: 77kWh/225hp