► New Genesis New York Concept unveiled
► ‘Driver-focused’ hybrid luxury saloon
► Previews upcoming 3-series rivalling G70
You could be forgiven for missing the news about Genesis. Much like Citroen’s DS, it used to be a badge that adorned a single model – in this case, Hyundai’s flagship luxury saloon.
Now, however, in a similar vein to DS, it’s been spun off into a standalone ‘premium’ brand. It was launched in 2015 and plans for up to six new models by 2020 were promptly announced.
This, the ‘New York Concept’, is believed to represent a thinly veiled look at the next production model in Genesis’s range – a BMW 3-series-rivalling mid-size luxury saloon called the G70.
While the concept is packed with elements that wouldn’t make it into production, like the aircraft yoke-like steering wheel, it’s evident that this is more than just an outright styling exercise. For example, it has a filler cap, wipers, lights that look feasible for production and provisions for door mirrors – no, Genesis hasn’t gone down the seemingly obligatory side-view camera route.
You can expect the styling to be toned down a little for production purposes, though, but expect the basic proportions and cues to remain. Inside, the New York Concept is clearly somewhat removed from the potential production model, with a large 21in 4K curved display taking centre stage.
The powertrain of the concept, however, appears distinctly more feasible than the typically overblown interior. In line with the ongoing trend for downsizing and hybrid power, the New York Concept features a hybrid drivetrain consisting of a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with electric assistance.
Few technical details have been revealed, but Genesis has stated that the powertrain produces 242bhp and 260lb ft. This is sent to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. The company also claims ‘sporty agility and refined performance’, something the G70 will certainly need if it’s really to tackle the likes of the 3-series – or Cadillac ATS.
Expect to see a production version of the G70 saloon, based on this New York Concept, at some point in 2017. However, it looks unlikely that we’ll ever see the new Genesis line-up on sale in the UK.
Genesis also had its larger G90 on display at the 2016 New York motor show.
Read more of CAR’s 2016 New York motor show coverage here
Click here for CAR’s A-Z guide to the 2016 New York motor show