Genesis is reportedly preparing to give the GV80 a subtle facelift, coinciding with the launch of the highly anticipated GV80 Hybrid. Recent spy footage captured by Healer TV shows heavily camouflaged prototypes being tested in Korea, fueling speculation that the luxury SUV will not only receive a new hybrid powertrain but also significant exterior and interior updates.
Although Genesis has not officially confirmed the details, the extent of the camouflage and the timing of the tests suggest that a comprehensive refresh could be on the cards for the 2026 model year.
The camouflage on the test vehicles is more extensive than usual, indicating that there may be visible exterior changes. According to spy images, the front and rear bumpers appear to have been reworked, and a new grille design may be introduced to distinguish this version from the first GV80 facelift, which was launched in 2023. The grille, featuring a smoother contour and refined mesh pattern, could represent the model’s transition into hybrid territory, aligning with Genesis’s evolving “Athletic Elegance” design language and improved aerodynamic efficiency.
As with previous updates, Genesis is likely to retain the GV80’s overall proportions and body lines, focusing on subtle styling tweaks to maintain a modern yet familiar appearance. These adjustments would help the GV80 Hybrid stand out in a competitive luxury SUV segment dominated by the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE, and Audi Q7.
The most significant update is expected to be under the hood, with the 2026 Genesis GV80 Hybrid set to debut a 2.5-liter turbocharged hybrid system, combining gasoline and electric power for enhanced performance and efficiency. Unlike the Palisade Hybrid, which uses a front-wheel-drive layout, the GV80 will likely retain its rear-wheel-drive architecture, paired with a new 7- or 8-speed automatic transmission designed for smoother transitions and improved torque delivery.
Predicted efficiency figures are promising, with:
* Fuel economy: approximately 13.5 km/L (official estimate)
* Real-world range: up to 15-16 km/L
* Added functionality: Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability to power external devices, an increasingly popular feature in the electrified luxury SUV segment
These specifications would position the GV80 Hybrid as one of the most efficient and technologically advanced SUVs in its class, bridging the gap between traditional combustion and full electrification.
The GV80 remains a cornerstone model for Genesis, both commercially and symbolically. Launching a hybrid variant, potentially accompanied by a second facelift, underscores the brand’s strategy to extend the SUV’s lifecycle and reinforce its position until a full next-generation model arrives later in the decade. If these updates are confirmed, the 2026 GV80 Hybrid will represent a major step forward, combining refined design, modernized technology, and a more sustainable powertrain.
