2016 Genesis New York Concept

• The concept introduced the “Athletic Elegance” design language that still defines Genesis today.

• A 245-hp hybrid system showcased efficiency blended with performance.

• Positioned against compact luxury sedans, it laid the groundwork for the production G70.

A First Big Test for Genesis

Back in 2016, Genesis was a brand with something to prove. It had just separated from Hyundai as its own luxury arm, and the New York International Auto Show was the perfect stage to make a first big impression. The New York Concept wasn’t just a flashy one-off — it was a message.

The message was simple: Genesis was ready to stand on its own, and it was aiming directly at the likes of BMW, Mercedes, and Audi.

Exterior Design That Set the Tone

Look at the New York Concept today, and it’s easy to see where Genesis design started to take shape. At 4,740 mm long, 1,930 mm wide, and 1,410 mm tall, the car had real presence. Wide proportions, short overhangs, and a fastback profile gave it balance and stance.

The front carried a bold crest-shaped grille, flanked by slim headlights that hinted at what would later become the now-familiar quad lamp signature. Along the sides, strong character lines pulled the body taut, while the rear was finished with slim horizontal lamps and a clean diffuser.

This was the birth of “Athletic Elegance” — a phrase that at the time felt like a marketing soundbite, but in practice has defined nearly every Genesis model since.

A Cabin Focused on Clarity

Step inside the concept and the mood shifted. Instead of layering buttons and trim, the cabin was stripped back. A sweeping horizontal dashboard framed by fine materials — leather, metals, and woven fabrics — gave it a calm, almost architectural atmosphere.

The centerpiece was a 21-inch curved 4K display that ran across the dash. It wasn’t just for show; it was an early signal of where interiors were heading — integrated, digital, and designed around the driver. Genesis angled the screen slightly toward the pilot’s seat, reinforcing that this was a car about focus and control, not just style.

Hybrid Power with Substance

Beneath the design, Genesis made another statement with the drivetrain. The concept was fitted with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined 245 horsepower (183 kW) and 353 Nm of torque. Power went through an 8-speed automatic transmission, balancing refinement and performance.

Technical Specification

• Length: 4,740 mm (186.6 in)
• Width: 1,930 mm (76.0 in)
• Height: 1,410 mm (55.5 in)
• Wheelbase: 2,890 mm (113.8 in)
• Powertrain: 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with electric motor
• Output: 245 hp (183 kW)
• Torque: 353 Nm (260 lb-ft)
• Transmission: 8-speed automatic

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