Genesis GV60

Does this plush newcomer deserve a slice of the premium electric SUV pie? The verdict is in

- Stuart Milne

CAN YOU CREATE a product that's properly premium off the bat? Is it more than just history that distinguishes what will stand the test of time versus the things that are just fads? Or is it more like architecture, where some buildings are old, ornate and destined to remain part of the landscape for years to come, whereas others are just designed to mimic what already exists but soon feel dated?

Those questions have been on my mind while running my GV60, given that Genesis is a relative newcomer to the UK prestige market that's immediately trying to go toe to toe with the establishment. And I found myself mulling them even more after several (admittedly noncar people) thought I'd pulled up in a Bentley probably because of the winged badge.

Personally, I think mimicking betterknown brands isn't enough; there needs to be substance to back up the style. And in a premium car, that means it has to be comfortable and quiet.

Fortunately, the GV60 is both of those things, soothing away many hours on free-flowing and congested motorways alike. Plus, there's no faulting the interior, which is not only solidly built but also feels more special than those of the closely related Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6 - which it had to, given the GV60's higher price point.