Genesis takes covers off first crossover, the GV80

Genesis marked a new milestone with the global unveiling of its first crossover, the GV80, a crucial model that could reel in customers interested in the upstart Korean brand’s value and quality proposition but turned off by its all-sedan lineup.

At an event in Seoul, Genesis provided the first official pictures in full color and announced the base engine for the home market — a six-cylinder diesel that won’t be heading to the U.S. when the crossover goes on sale by summer.

The GV80, with an optional third row, will be available with two turbocharged gasoline engines in the U.S., Genesis said. The G70 sedan is offered with a base turbo four-cylinder or optional turbo six-cylinder engine, and those are likely choices for the GV80, providing better fuel economy in the smaller motor and performance in the bigger one.