The Genesis X Gran Equator SUV Concept Looks Ready For Glamping
Genesis may be about to go where it’s never gone before … off road. Hyundai’s upscale brand is showing off the X Gran Equator SUV Concept at the New York International Auto Show.
The two row SUV is a rugged luxury vehicle in the same vein as a Range Rover or Rivian, although Genesis hasn’t said if it is meant to be powered by gasoline or electricity.
The X Gran Equator Concept has the classically long hood of an internal combustion engine vehicle, but also a flat underbody like one running on batteries. Three vents above the front and rear bumpers further obfuscate its method of propulsion, but none of this really matters in the world of show cars. It’s all about the style.
“It represents the orchestration of true off-road competence and uncompromising luxury, designed to enable the discovery of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes,” Genesis Chief Creative Officer Luc Donckerwolke explained.
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The X Gran Equator stands on 24-inch beadlock capable wheels wrapped in aggressive all-terrain tires and has a split-opening tailgate and roof rails for carrying outdoor equipment. The interior is trimmed with two-tone leather and metal. The instrument cluster is a trio of small circular displays and there are four more in the center of the dashboard. Below the latter are a rack of toggle switches and Genesis’ signature crystal orb transmission selector. Individual glass sunroofs are located above each outboard seats.
The name of the vehicle is inspired by a famous Arabian stallion show horse, which gives you an idea of the customer Genesis is aiming for. It didn’t confirm any plans for production, but indicated that the styling and features may show up on a future showroom model. Genesis imports most of its models from South Korea, but currently builds gas and electric versions of the GV70 in Alabama. If the current import tariff and electric vehicle tax credit programs that encourage U.S. production continue, it’s possible a production version of the X Gran Equator would be manufactured at one of the Hyundai Motor Group factories in the U.S.
Genesis also brought its new IMSA and WEC Hypercar to the show, which is the polar opposite of the X Gran Equator. The Genesis Magma Racing GMR-001 hybrid is a collaboration with race car build Oreca that will launch in both series and enter the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2026. The Magma name will be used on an upcoming lineup of Genesis production models tied to the racing effort.