Genesis is no stranger to exciting concepts, prototypes, and one-offs — just look at the Magma GT mid-engine supercar or the G90 Magma Wingback wagon. As for production cars, there’s the new 641-hp GV60 Magma. Now, fresh spy shots taken by Shorts Car of what appears to be a Genesis GV70 test mule with a stretched wheelbase have surfaced. But we have a feeling it’s more than just an elongated GV70. Once you look closer, you’ll see the C-pillar appears subtly redesigned, and of course, it’s riding on a set of peculiar wheels. We believe this could be Genesis testing the production version of the X Gran Equator Concept — cleverly disguised as a GV70 to throw off the scent.
The Possibility of a Stretched GV70
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The current GV70 hits a rare balance between sporty proportions and everyday usability. Adding length would naturally tilt it toward comfort and practicality, but this might create competition within the Genesis lineup itself, having the GV70 stepping on the toes of the GV80, its mid-size sibling. The possibility of it becoming a Chinese-exclusive, like the Tesla Model Y L, is still on the table.
That said, a longer wheelbase is not only about legroom. It can also be about packaging. As everyone continues to push deeper into electrification, extra space could allow for larger battery packs, giving its electric variant, the Genesis Electrified GV70, or upcoming hybrid and EREV versions more range and maybe even more power.
The Wheels That Change The Narrative
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While some claim this elongated prototype rolls on Kia wheels, we believe they’re identical to those from the Hyundai Kona EV. That small detail still tells a big story. Using sister-brand components is a classic development tactic, allowing engineers to test new hardware discreetly and efficiently. It also reinforces the idea that this mule may not represent a GV70 at all, but something entirely new wearing familiar clothes. So, chances of a new Hyundai or Kia are high, especially considering their impressive growth in the US. Using a Genesis as a test platform is the perfect way to hide in plain sight.
What This Test Mule Really Tells Us
Speculation aside, this prototype tells us that there’s a new car coming from the Korean umbrella brand. It’ll share the same ethos as the Genesis GV70, but come in a slightly longer package. Genesis itself has been giving us some pretty special cars recently, like the refreshed G80 and one-off GV80 Black. Whether this new model will be a gas-powered, hybrid-assisted, or all-electric model remains to be seen, but the Hyundai Motor Group is working on something pretty special, and for now, it’s disguised as a GV70.
