2026 Genesis GV90 Review: The Electric Flagship Nobody Expected
Oliver Bennett·13 May 2026·11 min read
Genesis launches its most ambitious product yet — a 600 hp fully electric flagship SUV that takes on the Cadillac Escalade IQ and Mercedes EQS SUV at AED 459,000.
Verdict
Pros: - 600 hp dual motor AWD with 560 km WLTP range - Interior quality rivals cars at AED 600,000+ - Genesis' 10-year powertrain warranty on EV battery
Cons: - Genesis brand recognition at this price point a challenge in UAE - 23-inch wheels create a firm ride over UAE speed humps - No third-row option for the launch year
Price range: AED 459,000 – 529,000 Best for: Buyers who want flagship EV luxury without the badge premium Not for: Brand-prestige buyers or those needing 7 seats
Introduction
Genesis has been building confidence in the UAE market for five years. The GV90 is their statement of intent: a full-size luxury electric SUV designed to rival Mercedes, BMW and Cadillac at the apex of the market. After a week in Dubai, I found a car that achieves almost everything it sets out to do.
Key Specs
| Spec | GV90 600 | GV90 600e+ |
|---|---|---|
| Motor config | Dual AWD | Dual AWD |
| Power | 600 hp | 600 hp |
| Battery | 100 kWh | 120 kWh |
| Range (WLTP) | 530 km | 620 km |
| 0–100 km/h | 4.2 sec | 4.2 sec |
| Price (AED) | 459,000 | 529,000 |
Interior Quality
Genesis has approached the GV90's interior with a level of precision and material selection that rivals Bentley at a third of the price. The Swarovski crystal ambient lighting — 128 crystals, manually installed, embedded in the headliner — is the most distinctive detail. Nappa leather with individual seat stitching patterns, genuine walnut inlays and a 27-inch curved display that spans from driver to front passenger all contribute to an interior of genuine luxury.
The driver's seat adjusts in 23 directions with a memory position for 3 profiles. The Genesis Relaxation Seat — reclining to 30 degrees in both front and second row — is the most comfortable seat configuration I have experienced in any non-saloon vehicle.
Driving Experience
The 600 hp dual-motor system delivers acceleration with the now-familiar EV characteristic: instant and continuous. The 0–100 figure of 4.2 seconds understates the sensation — the GV90 builds speed with a sustained intensity that larger, heavier EVs sometimes lose above 60 km/h.
800V charging architecture enables a 10–80% charge in under 22 minutes at 350 kW. UAE's DEWA Expo City station offers 150 kW — adequate at 45 minutes for a 10–80% charge.
Over a week of Dubai driving: 19.2 kWh/100 km average — equivalent to approximately AED 0.04/km on DEWA pricing from 2027.
Our Verdict
The GV90 is Genesis' most compelling argument that the brand deserves consideration alongside Mercedes and BMW at the luxury apex. The interior is genuinely extraordinary; the range and performance are class-leading; and the 10-year battery warranty is the most comprehensive in the segment.
The brand awareness challenge is real. But for UAE buyers who evaluate what they buy rather than what the badge says, the GV90 is extraordinary value at AED 459,000.
Recommended: GV90 600e+ in Jentle Home Blue with Relaxation Seat package.