Genesis, Hyundai’s luxury brand, has unveiled the G90 Wingback concept, a bold step toward potentially introducing an S-Class-sized wagon to its lineup. While currently a one-off showcase for the brand’s customisation capabilities, Genesis executives suggest production isn’t out of the question if a viable business case emerges.
Expanding Beyond Sedans and Shooting Brakes
The G90 Wingback arrives as Genesis seeks to broaden its appeal in markets where wagons outsell sedans, such as Europe. Currently, the G70 Shooting Brake is the only wagon in Genesis’s range. However, the Wingback signals a willingness to explore more ambitious designs.
Aggressive Styling and Performance Intent
Chief design officer Luc Donckerwolke playfully dubbed the concept ‘Dr Evil’ during development, highlighting its dual nature: sporting functionality wrapped in an aerodynamic, elegant body. The vehicle features wider front fenders with integrated cooling vents, pumped-up rear wheel arches, and a straightened shoulder line.
The front end boasts a sharply defined, Acura-inspired five-point grille with an aggressive bumper design. At the rear, dual spoilers, a prominent diffuser, and unequal-sized exhaust tips enhance the performance aesthetic. The concept rides on 22-inch wheels with Pirelli 255/35 tyres.
Powertrain and Production Viability
Despite its aggressive exterior, the Wingback utilises the G90 sedan’s powertrain options, rather than a more high-performance setup. The short-wheelbase G90 offers a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 with 279kW and 530Nm, while the long-wheelbase variant produces 305kW and 549Nm with an electric supercharger.
However, production is uncertain due to the current G90 being exclusively left-hand drive. Genesis previously revealed two additional G90-based concepts this year — the X Gran Coupe and X Gran Convertible — with the Convertible being considered for production.
The G90 Wingback demonstrates Genesis’s willingness to push design boundaries and explore new segments, even if immediate production isn’t guaranteed. The concept underscores the brand’s ambition to offer a diverse range of luxury vehicles, catering to evolving consumer preferences.
