Genesis GV80 OEM Options Review: Soft Close Doors

Genesis GV80 Soft-Close Door Upgrade: A Premium Convenience

Many Genesis GV80 owners consider adding convenience features, and the soft-close door function, often referred to as 'Ghost Door,' is a popular choice. Even on facelifted models, if this wasn't selected as a factory option, owners might feel something is missing. This review details a real-world installation of the soft-close door system on a Genesis GV80 facelift model, based on experiences from a tuning shop in Suwon, South Korea. We'll cover why this feature is desirable, the installation process, the results, and the cost involved.

Why Choose Soft-Close Doors for Your GV80?

The Genesis GV80 is a luxury vehicle, and its substantial weight extends to its doors. The satisfying thud when closing a heavy door can sometimes feel more like an abrupt 'bang,' which can be bothersome. This is especially true when you have passengers or are carrying items, and a door doesn't quite latch, requiring you to get out and push it shut again. The soft-close door system, or 'Ghost Door,' elegantly solves this problem. With just a gentle push, the doors automatically pull themselves shut, latching smoothly and quietly. It’s a convenience that, once experienced, is hard to live without, enhancing the overall premium feel of the vehicle.

The Installation Process: Precision and OEM Parts

Installing the soft-close door system requires careful work. The process involves:

1. Carefully removing the door trim panels from all four doors.
2. Disassembling the inner door panels on each door.
3. Removing the existing standard latches.
4. Installing the new GV80-specific soft-close latches, which contain integrated motors, in place of the original ones.
5. Connecting all wiring and connectors using genuine OEM parts to ensure perfect compatibility with the vehicle's electrical system.
6. Reassembling all removed components in the reverse order of removal.

This meticulous approach ensures that the system integrates seamlessly with the GV80's existing infrastructure. The use of genuine parts is crucial for reliability and longevity.

Before and After: The Enhanced Driving Experience

After the soft-close doors are installed, the way you interact with your GV80 changes. You no longer need to exert significant force to ensure the doors are closed. A light nudge is all it takes for the doors to silently and smoothly pull themselves shut, often with a two-stage closing action. For a vehicle like the GV80, where every detail contributes to the luxury experience, the sound and feel of the doors closing are significant. The soft-close function elevates this experience, adding a touch of sophistication and eliminating a common minor annoyance. This upgrade contributes to a more refined and comfortable ownership experience, making every entry and exit feel more premium.

Cost, Durability, and Warranty

The cost for installing the soft-close door system on a Genesis GV80 typically starts around 400,000 Korean Won (approximately $300 USD, though exchange rates vary). The exact price can depend on the vehicle's model year, trim level, and the specific scope of the work. The installation itself usually takes about 3 to 4 hours, allowing for same-day completion and vehicle return. Once installed, the soft-close system is designed for long-term, virtually maintenance-free operation under normal driving conditions. The shop performing this work in Suwon, South Korea, offers a warranty of 1 year or 20,000 km on their installation work, covering issues arising from the installation process. The durability of the components themselves is generally considered permanent, provided there are no manufacturing defects.