Genesis is no stranger to pushing design boundaries, and its latest concept—the X Gran Equator—is a bold testament to that reputation. Unveiled at the 2025 New York Auto Show, the Gran Equator challenges expectations with a shape and stance that sit squarely between a wagon and an SUV. This design mashup opens up intriguing possibilities as Genesis continues to explore new territory in the premium segment.
While the brand hasn’t outright confirmed the Gran Equator as an EV, all signs point to it. A fully enclosed underbody, the absence of an exhaust system, and ultra-modern surfacing suggest a battery-powered future. The long hood may throw off that assumption at first glance, but it’s clearly a design statement rather than a sign of internal combustion. Think less GV80, more concept fantasy rooted in clean-sheet thinking.
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Visually, the X Gran Equator breaks away from Genesis’ previous concept, the Neolun, which gave us a taste of the brand’s future flagship SUV. This new design goes bigger and bolder with 24-inch beadlock-style wheels, flared fenders, and an exaggerated two-line lighting signature that wraps around the body. It’s all very deliberate, and while the wheels are likely far too flashy for production, they give the concept serious presence—whether or not you’d want to clean them is another matter.
One of the most striking features is the four-piece glass roof, a departure from the now-common panoramic setups seen in everything from Teslas to Toyotas. Echoing rugged designs like the Ineos Grenadier, this segmented glass layout suggests the X Gran Equator isn’t afraid to hint at functionality. That theme continues with its split tailgate, a feature that’s grown rare in the age of uniform rear hatches. Roof rails with intricate detailing mirror the wheel design, further reinforcing a sense of cohesion, albeit with concept-level flair.
The entry mechanism for rear passengers also leans into the futuristic vibe. Instead of traditional handles, a button integrated into the C-pillar unlocks the doors—subtle, sleek, and perfect for a concept that clearly wants to disrupt the norm. Pop-out handles up front keep things uniform, but it’s the little things, like the grab handles on the dash and the low-mounted interior door pulls, that remind you this isn’t just a showpiece—it’s designed with intentional user interaction in mind.
Inside, Genesis keeps things refreshingly analog, at least by modern luxury standards. Rather than dominating the dash with a single oversized screen, the X Gran Equator features four digital dials at the center and a trio of smaller displays serving as the driver’s instrument cluster. It’s restrained yet futuristic, tech-forward without falling into the trap of screen overload. The physical buttons on the center console, including an off-road mode selector, reinforce the vehicle’s potential utility beyond city streets.
The X Gran Equator is envisioned strictly as a four-seater, with individual bucket seats separated by large center consoles. Grab handles, typically reserved for hardcore off-roaders, are present on the B-pillars and dash, further hinting that Genesis might be chasing rugged rivals like the Rivian R1S or even the upcoming electric Mercedes G-Class. The terrain mode selector on the steering wheel backs up this ambition, while swiveling front seats add a lounge-like vibe when parked.
Another curious touch is a set of toggle switches on the ceiling, presumably controlling the roof’s glass panels or integrated sunshades. The traditional glovebox has been replaced with dual storage boxes featuring leather straps—a nod to bespoke craftsmanship in an otherwise tech-laden cabin.
Genesis insists the X Gran Equator isn’t confirmed for production, and that’s not surprising. Concepts like these are often meant to test public reaction and flex design muscles. But there’s reason to believe elements of this wild creation could trickle down to future production models. Features like the split tailgate, refined off-road touches, and distinct lighting signature could find their way into something you’ll actually be able to buy from a showroom.
If Genesis decides to green-light anything close to the Gran Equator, it would mark a bold evolution in the luxury EV space—one that doesn’t just follow existing playbooks but writes a new one entirely.
