The wagon market is all but dead in South Africa but up north in Europe, traditional estate cars still sell in decent enough volumes to justify the development of new ones.
The latest protagonist comes from Hyundai’s premium brand Genesis and it’s a Shooting Brake version of the G70 sedan that competes with the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes C-Class in certain global markets.
The new wagon comes just in time for the Genesis brand’s launch in key European markets later this year, starting with Germany, Switzerland and the UK. The Genesis brand is currently not available in South Africa, however, and there is no word on whether this will change at any point.
Fully cognisant of the market it competes in, the Genesis G70 is built on a rear-wheel drive platform. Genesis hasn’t mentioned the engine line-up for the Shooting Brake as yet, but it’s likely to mirror the sedan in offering a 2.2-litre turbodiesel with 148 kW and 441 N.m, as well as a 185 kW 2-litre turbopetrol and 272 kW 3.3-litre twin-turbo petrol.
The Genesis G70 Shooting Brake shares its basic dimensions with the saloon, with a length of 4 685 mm and a width of 1 850 mm, but it has 40 percent more luggage space as well as a 4:2:4 split-folding rear seat.
“We are delighted to reveal this bespoke product – tailored for our European customers – so soon after revealing news of our arrival into the region,” said Genesis Europe boss Dominique Boesch.
“The G70 Shooting Brake marries luxury and European automotive heritage with our design philosophy of Athletic Elegance. Our fifth car in Europe, the Shooting Brake will stand apart through its unique design; it is a clear statement of our commitment to the region.”
We really can’t imagine that the Genesis G70 Shooting Brake would sell well if it ever came to South Africa, though, but would you at least be tempted?
