FLEDGLING luxury brand Genesis has no plans for a V8 engine, despite prime German rivals still relying heavily on the engine layout that has been loved by enthusiasts for more than half a century.

Months before it even goes on sale in Australia, the design chief for the soon-to arrive Hyundai-owned brand has all but ruled out a V8 engine option for the six-model range that will roll out by 2021.

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Citing tightening emissions regulations he said V8 engines were not necessary in chasing performance.

“As much as I like V8 … the electrification is going to be a main element [for performance],” said former Lamborghini and Bentley designer Luc Donckerwolke, hinting that diesel engines were also unlikely for Genesis, at least in the short term.

And, indeed, performance generally is not a priority for overall Genesis boss Manfred Fitzgerald.

“Alternative propulsion systems are at the core of this brand,” said Fitzgerald, suggesting electric motors would be a better bet for boosting performance of future models.

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“The ICE’s [internal combustion engine] dominance of performance, that’s going to go away.”

Fitzgerald says pure acceleration will not be a differentiator for luxury brands in future.

“Performance will not have a dominant role any more.”

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Instead, Genesis will rely on turbocharged four-cylinder and V6 performance, the latter able to rely on twin turbos to boost power to V8-like levels.

Fitzgerald also said there were no plans for a halo Genesis model, with the brand instead focusing on appealing luxury cars that appeal to a broad audience.

“I might not be your typical marketing guy, I don’t believe in focus groups. I believe in doing great models. A halo vehicle … that’s not our speed.”