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Concept

Genesis reveals full-scale version of its X Gran Berlinetta Vision concept car

Combining ethereal styling with over 1,000bhp, it will debut at the Gran Turismo World Series finals

Published: 05 Dec 2023

Genesis has teased its stunning new ‘X Gran Berlinetta Vision’ concept, and will officially unveil it at the forthcoming Gran Turismo World Series finals in Barcelona before gamers will have access in-game following a January batch update.

The Gran Berlinetta follows a familiar Genesis theme, so upfront we see a sophisticated front fascia design which marries a crest grille to a quad-light pattern. The latter is extended beyond even the wheel arches, and looks like a demon love-child between the Stig and Darth Vader.

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Continuing where Genesis finally decides to stop designing the light cluster, the bulbous rear arches are met by deep crests and lead up to openings in the stretched, sloping bonnet which appears to be longer than the average London bus.

The exterior is then completed by a gorgeous shade of ‘Magma’, which Genesis says is a reference to Korea’s many volcanoes. That’s nice, but this could be seen as a missed opportunity since adding a few K-pop-inspired vinyls could’ve been the perfect way to send an entire generation into overdrive.

The cabin is a polymerisation of carbon fibre and quilted, heavily padded stitching, which looks fancy enough to be on the personal wish list of the Sultan of Brunei. A panoramic interface also resides, with plenty of red lighting to remind you of Vader’s influence.

In terms of propulsion, the Gran Berlinetta pairs Genesis’ E-SC electric technology to a ‘Lambda 11’ V6 engine to create a hybrid powertrain, producing a peak of 1,071bhp and 986lb ft of torque. Genesis also quotes a redline of 10,000rpm, so expect a lively vocal cord.

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Speaking on the Gran Berlinetta, Genesis senior chief designer, John Krsteski, said: “Our goal was to create a timeless design rooted in the essence of motorsport. We have an incredibly diverse global design team that are car and racing enthusiasts. The designers relished the opportunity to create a race car that featured Genesis design elements as well as technical performance attributes. It has become a catalyst of inspiration for our other programs.”

The Gran Berlinetta is yet another Vision Concept from brands that feature in the Gran Turismo series, and follows a theme of high-powered, high-tech previews into a manufacturer's future design language and engineering developments. We’re now just waiting for Hindustan to make an appearance with a jumped up second-coming of the Ambassador.

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