The automotive world was set ablaze this week as the Genesis X Gran Berlinetta made its high-octane race track debut at Australia’s iconic Mount Panorama Circuit. With legendary driver Jacky Ickx behind the wheel, the event drew global attention—not just for the car’s sleek design and performance but for the thunderous roar of its engine. However, the real shockwave came post-event, as enthusiasts and experts alike erupted into a fiery debate: Was the Genesis X Gran Berlinetta powered by a V6, a V8, or something entirely unexpected?
Jacky Ickx and the Symphony of Power
The presence of motorsport icon Jacky Ickx, an eight-time Le Mans winner, added gravitas to the Genesis X Gran Berlinetta’s premiere. Spectators were captivated by the car’s aggressive aerodynamics and blistering speed, but it was the engine’s deep, resonant growl that stole the show. Social media platforms like Threads buzzed with speculation, with users dissecting audio clips and arguing whether the soundtrack hinted at a high-revving V6 or a torque-heavy V8.
The Engine Debate: V6 vs V8 vs GM LS
The confusion was understandable. Modern engines often blur the lines between configurations, but the Genesis X Gran Berlinetta’s acoustics defied easy categorization. Enthusiasts theorized:
- V6 Hypothesis: Sounded refined yet potent, akin to hybridized performance engines in luxury rivals.
- V8 Argument: The low-end rumble suggested classic American muscle, a hallmark of V8s.
However, a bombshell revelation emerged from insider sources: the Genesis X Gran Berlinetta’s heart is reportedly a General Motors LS engine—a legendary pushrod V8 known for its lightweight design and modular versatility, but the question is, why not using an engine from Hyundai Motor Group?
Why the GM LS Engine not Hyundai’s TAU?
The choice of a GM LS engine raised eyebrows but could align with the possibility that Genesis has yet to develop a proper engine for this concept car. Remember, Genesis initially announced this vehicle with a 3.3L Twin-Turbo V6 engine featuring an electric supercharger, delivering up to 1,071 hp.
Why not use an engine from Hyundai Motor Group? The most powerful engine in its current portfolio is the 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 with an electric supercharger, introduced in the G90 and GV80 Coupe, producing up to 415 hp. Another option could have been the V8 Tau engine, but it was discontinued in 2021.
This partnership could also hint at Hyundai Motor Group’s (Genesis’s parent company) broader collaboration with GM, following their recent ventures into electric vehicles and hydrogen technology.
What’s Next for Genesis?
While Genesis has yet to officially confirm the LS engine specs, the Mount Panorama debut signals bold ambitions. The brand’s foray into high-performance track machines could redefine its image, positioning it as a contender against established European marques.
