Genesis X Gran Equator: An off-road SUV that challenges the Mercedes G-Class.
Genesis is considering a luxury off-road SUV based on the X Gran Equator concept, featuring 24-inch beadlock wheels, high ground clearance, roof rails, and four individual sunroofs; it will likely not be purely electric, using a 3.5-liter V-6 or hybrid engine. Launch date: unknown.
At the “Investor Day 2025” event in New York, José Muñoz, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Group, confirmed that Genesis is developing new flagship models, including an off-road SUV directly inspired by the X Gran Equator concept unveiled earlier this year. Positioned as Genesis’s most premium SUV, it aims for a “distinctive and memorable” experience and seeks to compete directly in the luxury off-road SUV segment – a long-standing advantage held by the Mercedes-Benz G-Class.
Genesis has revealed some key technical/practical details: 24-inch beadlock wheels, a raised ride height, roof rails, and notably, a configuration featuring four individual sunroofs for each seat instead of a single panoramic sunroof. Significantly, the company suggests this model is “likely not purely electric,” possibly using the existing 3.5-liter V-6 engine or a hybrid configuration. The launch date and mass production plans are currently unknown.
Highlights
Genesis' announcement of a flagship off-road SUV model reveals its ambition to expand its product range into the luxury off-road segment, which demands a unique design philosophy and engineering solutions focused on durability and off-road performance. The limited information from the X Gran Equator concept provides clear indications of its engineering priorities: large 24-inch beadlock wheels for increased tire safety during off-road driving, high ground clearance, and a roof structure with rails to support luggage/tools.
Exterior: design language, dimensions, comparison with competitors.
In terms of exterior design, the X Gran Equator emphasizes practicality for off-road use: 24-inch beadlock wheels, high ground clearance, and roof rails. Beadlock wheels are a rare feature on mainstream commercial vehicles, usually associated with specialized off-road models. The 24-inch wheel size shows Genesis's emphasis on strong visual proportions, but tire size, ground clearance, and approach/departure angle specifications have not yet been released.
The overall design is described as "strongly SUV-like," but the dimensions (length x width x height, wheelbase) and aerodynamic details are still unclear. If it goes into production, the model is expected to compete with the Mercedes-Benz G-Class in terms of positioning. Key elements for comparison – chassis platform, suspension, differential lock, off-road modes – currently lack data from Genesis.
Interior & Amenities: Materials, Display, Connectivity, Space
Interior details currently only reveal four sunroofs, with each passenger having their own. This approach differs from the more common panoramic sunroof, focusing on the natural light experience for each seat. Other components such as dashboard layout, materials, screen size, infotainment/connectivity system, seat configuration, and rear seat space/cargo capacity are still unknown.
Engine & Performance: Specifications, Driving Experience, 0–100, Fuel Consumption
Genesis has indicated that the SUV model, based on the X Gran Equator, is likely not a purely electric vehicle. Two options mentioned are the company's existing 3.5-liter V-6 engine or a hybrid powertrain. Specifications regarding power output (hp/kW), torque (Nm), transmission type (8-speed automatic/CVT/DCT), drivetrain (FWD/RWD/AWD), suspension, brakes, and tires have not yet been released.
With an off-road focus, the inclusion of 24-inch beadlock rims indicates a preference for suitable tires and optimal durability at low pressure. However, the figures for throttle response/steering feedback, 0–100 km/h acceleration, and fuel consumption (measured) are still unclear.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5-liter V-6 (expected) / Hybrid (expected) |
| Power | Unknown (hp/kW @ rpm) |
| Torque | Not clear (Nm @ rpm) |
| Gear | Unknown (AT 8-speed/CVT/DCT) |
| Drive | Undetermined (FWD/RWD/AWD) |
| 0–100 km/h | unclear(s) |
| Consume | Unknown (l/100km – measurement standard) |
Safety: active/passive, ADAS, NCAP standards
There is currently no information available regarding active/passive safety packages or ADAS (advanced driver assistance systems) for this SUV model. Independent safety rating (NCAP): unknown.
Price & Versions: Configuration, Competitor Comparison, Value for Money
Genesis has not yet announced the launch date, trim levels, or pricing. Based on its positioning as the "top-of-the-line" SUV in the Genesis range, the commercially available model would compete with the Mercedes-Benz G-Class in terms of customer base and utility value. However, any comparisons regarding ownership costs and standard/optional features are currently unavailable.
Conclusion: Concise advantages and disadvantages
- Pros: Clearly off-road oriented (24-inch beadlock wheels, high ground clearance, roof rails); a distinctive experience with four individual sunroofs; likely to use a 3.5-liter V-6 or hybrid engine suitable for the transition period.
- Cons: Lack of core technical specifications (power, torque, transmission, drivetrain); interior, ADAS, and safety features are unclear; launch date and price have not been announced.
Add context
Besides the aforementioned off-road SUV, Genesis also revealed other projects: a G90 coupe (rumored to be based on the X Gran Coupe concept) and a high-performance electric sedan with over 1,000 horsepower, positioned to compete directly with the Porsche Taycan. This signals a roadmap for expanding its product range at both extremes – electric performance and luxury off-road.
