The 2026 Genesis GV80 has seen a notable reduction in its base price with the reintroduction of a four-cylinder engine. This strategic move marks a significant shift for the luxury SUV, which now starts at $120,000 before on-road costs—a $10,000 decrease from previous pricing. This adjustment comes as Genesis reintroduces the turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, which was previously discontinued in 2024. However, the 3.0-litre turbo-diesel inline six remains absent from the lineup as production has ceased.
Meanwhile, the twin-turbo 3.5-litre V6 variant, which previously opened the range, has seen a price increase of $2,000 for the 2026 model. Other models in the GV80 lineup have experienced price hikes ranging from $1,500 to $1,700, reflecting broader market trends in the luxury SUV segment.
Trim Levels and Features
All GV80 SUVs now feature the Signature trim name, with the exception of the new Black flagship model, which is exclusively available with the 3.5T engine. The GV80 Coupe continues to be offered with its unique trim level, including special features that differentiate it from the Signature SUV. Notably, the previously optional Rear Seat Entertainment Package, which included dual 14.7-inch rear touchscreens, has been discontinued for 2026.
However, buyers can still opt for a six-seat layout, featuring second-row captain’s chairs, a fixed centre console, and a wireless phone charger. The Black editions offer a range of dark-themed exclusive appointments and eco-friendly materials, including leather upholstery dyed using recycled carbon black from waste tyres.
Technological Advancements
The 2026 GV80 introduces the Genesis-first Digital Key 2.0, enhancing the existing Genesis Connected Services suite in Australia. This feature utilizes near-field communication (NFC) and ultra-wideband (UWB) technology, allowing owners to lock and unlock doors or start the engine remotely using a compatible smartphone or smartwatch. Impressively, Digital Key 2.0 can be shared with up to 15 devices and functions without a mobile network signal, even if the smartphone battery is depleted.
Market Position and Sales
The reintroduction of the 2.5T drivetrain comes after its discontinuation in 2024, despite accounting for approximately 25% of local GV80 sales. Genesis Australia CEO had previously indicated that the new GV80 Coupe would compensate by capturing 30% of overall sales for the large luxury SUV. As of October, Genesis has delivered 165 GV80 SUVs and 72 GV80 Coupes, with the coupe representing exactly 30% of total GV80 sales.
On the surface, it appears that prices for the Genesis GV80, a competitor to the BMW X5, have increased since its 2022 launch at $92,000 before on-road costs. However, the base 2.5T rear-wheel-drive configuration was dropped in 2024, and the $10,500 Luxury Pack became standard in 2025, justifying the price adjustments.
Specifications and Safety
The 2026 GV80 offers two engine options for the Australian market. The regular SUV model provides three rows of seating, while the sleeker Coupe offers two. The range is backed by a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty and includes five years or 50,000km of complimentary scheduled servicing. Genesis also offers a valet service for vehicle servicing within 70km of Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane CBDs.
Safety remains a priority, with the GV80 earning a five-star ANCAP safety rating based on 2021 testing. Standard safety features include adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot assist, and a surround-view camera, among others.
Standard and Optional Equipment
The GV80 lineup effectively offers three trim levels. The Signature model includes features such as a 27-inch OLED display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 12-inch head-up display, and an 18-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system. The GV80 Coupe adds unique design elements and performance enhancements, while Black editions introduce exclusive styling and materials.
Optional features include a six-seat interior configuration with second-row captain’s chairs and additional ambient lighting. Exterior colours are available at no extra cost, except for matte finishes, which require an additional fee.
As Genesis continues to innovate and adapt to market demands, the 2026 GV80 represents a blend of luxury, technology, and strategic pricing, poised to compete aggressively in the luxury SUV market.
