Concept cars are expensive endeavors, and they represent more than just fanciful ideas packaged for the public. They often preview what's coming next from an automaker, or heavily influence the company's portfolio for a generation, which makes it hard to ignore the X Gran Equator concept as anything other than a hint at what's to come from the luxury brand.
As soon as the concept debuted earlier this year, rumors began swirling that the SUV foreshadowed a dedicated off-roader that could rival the Mercedes-Benz G-Class and Land Rover Defender. Off-road vehicles remain popular, and they're profitable for automakers big and small.
While Genesis has not confirmed that it will turn the X into a production vehicle, Hyundai Motor Group President and CEO José Muñoz recently said that the brand plans to "go beyond the brand's existing model lineup to create new flagship vehicles. For example, an off-roader infused with the spirit of adventure, just like the X Gran Equator concept."
According to Muñoz, the Gran Equator and its other recent concepts, "exemplify our ambition to offer leading products that deliver exceptional experiences," and a dedicated off-roader would certainly offer Genesis buyers something unique. This is everything we know about the SUV so far.
What Will Genesis Call It?
Genesis X Gran Equator Concept
Despite Genesis calling the concept the X Gran Equator, the name doesn't align with the brand's current lineup. Its SUVs all feature the same "GV" prefix with a corresponding number that denotes the trim, with the current lineup ranging from the GV60 to the GV80.
Genesis is also developing what we expect will be called the GV90, which would likely sit below any halo vehicle based on the X Gran Equator. GV100 seems too plain for something the brand wants "infused with the spirit of adventure," but GVX isn't too bad if the brand wants to keep things coherent.
What Platform Will It Ride On?
Genesis didn't reveal what platform underpins its concept. The automaker has a dedicated rear-wheel drive architecture that it uses for the G80 and GV80, both of which are available with all-wheel drive. Genesis could easily swap out this setup for a beefy four-wheel-drive system if the brand is serious about launching an actual off-road halo vehicle.
The RWD architecture underneath the off-roader could accommodate a range of engines, giving any potential off-roader several powertrain options. Still, if this is a halo vehicle, it'll need to be something potent and capable.
What Will Power It?
Genesis never mentioned the concept's powertrain, but it appears the brand designed it as an electric vehicle. It lacked exhaust tips and featured a covered underbody, although we doubt it'll remain an EV for production, considering the current market trends. It'll likely adopt a powertrain that Genesis already offers.
The GV80 is available with two engine options: a 300-horsepower turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder and a 375-hp twin-turbo 3.5-liter V-6. There's also a hotter 3.5-liter hybrid V-6 offered in the G90 that makes 409 hp and 405 lb-ft of torque.
That's almost on par with the turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six hybrid engine in the G550. Genesis could also introduce a Magma version to compete with AMG, but that seems unlikely.
What Will It Look Like?
Genesis Mercedes-Benz G-Class Rival Rendering by Motor1
The X Gran Equator concept offers a glimpse into what a potential off-road Genesis might look like at its debut. Hyundai's production vehicles don't often differ much from their conceptual previews.
The concept had short overhangs, a boxy front-end with a long, flat hood, and a sloping roof, and we expect these styling features to carry over to the production vehicle. It also had the brand's striking "two lines" lighting motif, which wraps around the front and rear.
Inside, the concept lacked big screens, instead adopting round dials on the dash and physical controls on the floating center console. It looks more luxurious than rugged, with quality materials throughout and just four seats. A production version will likely look a tad more traditional, with screens and a row of standard buttons.
How Much Could It Cost?
If Genesis believes the concept will result in a halo vehicle, it'll likely cost quite a bit. The GV80 starts at just under $60,000, with the GV90 expected to cost even more. We wouldn't be surprised if the starting price of the off-road Genesis could reach the six-figure mark.
If it's competing with the G-Class, it'll need the latest luxury features and genuine off-road capability—even if no owner ever uses it. The G550 starts at around $150,000, while the Land Rover Defender 110 starts at less than half that at $65,000.
When Will It Debut?
Genesis hasn't even confirmed it will turn the X Gran Equator into a production vehicle, making it a mystery as to when we could see such a model debut. Genesis will soon add a three-row GV90 SUV to its lineup. If an off-road model does arrive, it will likely be after the GV90, which is expected in mid-2026.
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