The upcoming Genesis GV90 flagship SUV will feature pillarless coach doors on select Neolun models, introducing a distinctive design that presents significant engineering challenges involving safety, structural rigidity, and cabin refinement.
Genesis has released a video explaining how it developed the door system. While the Neolun models will feature the pillarless design, the standard GV90 will use conventional doors.
Why Pillarless Doors Are Difficult to Engineer
Traditional vehicle doors rely on a B-pillar between the front and rear doors. This structure helps maintain body rigidity, provides protection during side impacts, supports door latches, and helps seal the cabin against wind and road noise.
Removing the B-pillar creates several challenges. The doors must provide adequate structural protection while maintaining a refined, quiet cabin and ensuring that the vehicle remains secure.
Another challenge involves sealing the cabin. The front door must overlap the rear door to help prevent water, wind, and outside noise from entering. With conventional hinges, the front door would generally need to open before the rear door, as seen on vehicles such as the Honda Element and Mazda RX-8.
Genesis Developed a Dual-Motion Hinge
To address the door-opening challenge, Genesis developed a Dual-Motion Hinge. The mechanism moves the rear door outward and backward before allowing it to swing open, creating access without requiring the front door to open first.
The automaker has also incorporated structural components designed to help maintain safety without a conventional B-pillar.
Large impact bars are positioned along the door edges, while structural hooks engage with the vehicle floor to help transfer forces during an impact. Horizontal bars overlap vertical bars to reinforce the structure.
2027 Genesis GV90 Trims and Expected Pricing
The 2027 Genesis GV90 will be offered in standard Neolun and First Edition configurations. The First Edition will feature three exterior color options, each paired with a matching interior.
Genesis has not announced pricing. The vehicles are expected to go on sale early next year, and the Neolun models are anticipated to command a premium, potentially reaching six figures.
The pillarless coach doors distinguish the Neolun versions from the standard GV90, while the new hinge mechanism and reinforced door structure address the practical challenges of bringing the design to a production SUV.
