Genesis is seriously considering building a high-performance version of its G90 luxury sedan… as a wagon. The “Wingback” concept has generated unexpected buzz, and internal signals suggest production isn’t out of the question. This move would position Genesis against established players like Audi and BMW in the niche but lucrative performance wagon segment.
The Market for High-End Wagons
Despite skepticism about global demand, the success of cars like the Audi RS6 and BMW M5 Touring demonstrates a clear appetite for high-performance wagons, especially in the U.S. Genesis design chief Luc Donckerwolke acknowledges this, stating that market feedback contradicts expectations of low interest outside of Germany.
The G90 Wingback isn’t aimed at directly competing with the RS6, but rather occupying a higher tier – imagine an RS8 Avant or M7 Touring, which don’t exist. The G90 platform is already large, measuring over 204 inches in length, providing ample space for a luxurious and practical wagon body style.
Production Feasibility
The G90 Wingback isn’t just a flight of fancy. Genesis has already built a working prototype, and according to Donckerwolke, production would require minimal additional investment. The car shares key components (seats, wheelbase, suspension mounts) with the standard G90, simplifying the manufacturing process.
Genesis R&D is already reinforcing the G90 platform for a high-performance Magma variant, making the Wingback and X Gran Coupe viable extensions of that effort. Manfred Harrer, the performance lead, confirms the commitment to these designs, with improvements in steering, damping, and ride quality in development.
The Engine Question
The biggest hurdle remains the powertrain. The current G90’s 409-horsepower V6 is insufficient to compete with rivals boasting supercar-level performance. Rumors suggest Genesis is developing a new twin-turbo V8, potentially derived from the 3.2-liter engine used in the GMR-001 hypercar concept. This engine could also power the upcoming mid-engine sports car, and the X Gran Coupe, solidifying Genesis’s high-performance ambitions.
If the V8 materializes, the Wingback could transform from a curiosity into a serious contender in the luxury performance market. The decision rests with financial considerations, but if Genesis proceeds, the right buyers will respond.
