Genesis marked the new year by giving us a tantalizing first look at the production GV80. Being the brand's first-ever utility vehicle, the Genesis GV80 will be the luxury automaker's most important model yet and will almost certainly become the best-selling model in the company's lineup, given the current craze for all things SUV.

The first photos released by the Korean brand confirm the production model will look nearly identical to the concept that debuted at the 2017 New York Show, featuring a prominent "Crest" grille, a long hood, sloping roofline, and striking split headlights. We're not complaining because the concept looked absolutely stunning.

Technical details are being kept under wraps for now, but the GV80's official debut is only a few days away. According to The Korean Car Blog, Genesis will lift the wraps off the GV80 on January 16. Officially, Genesis hasn't officially confirmed the date yet, but a photo posted by the niche outlet shows the debut date on a door teasing the reveal event.

Like its sedan siblings, the GV80 will be based on a rear-wheel-drive platform but all-wheel drive will be optional. According to Genesis, the "V" in the GV80 name represents "versatility that only a Genesis SUV can offer". Surrounded by the high-tech Quad Lamps, the Crest Grille emphasizes gravitas consistent with the positioning of GV80.

Inside, the cabin looks like it will set new luxury standards for Genesis models, with premium materials, a wide center console that seamlessly integrates into the dashboard, a wide infotainment screen, and a digital dashboard.

A recent report claimed the Genesis GV80 will be sold with a choice of three powertrains, including a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 304 hp, a 3.5-liter V6 with 380 hp, and a new 278-hp 3.0-liter diesel inline-six. Each variant is also expected to be offered with a new eight-speed dual-clutch automatic. We'll find out if these leaked specifications are correct soon when the Genesis GV80 makes its world debut next week.