The electrified version of the Genesis GV70 is certainly in the spotlight these days, winning its share of awards, and I'm certainly a huge fan of it as you'll read in my recent review. But all the love for the electrified version aside, let's not forget the gas variant. It's also an incredibly luxurious and performance-oriented SUV to absolutely love, and will certainly win the favor of those still not quite sure about EVs. My test vehicle is the pinnacle of the lineup - the 3.5T AWD Sport Prestige.
Exterior
First, I cannot say enough about Genesis' color pallet. It impresses. Every time. The Cardiff Green premium hue adorning my current test vehicle is no exception. Why it's a green even non-green lovers could love.
The GV70 is one pretty SUV. It is the perfect combo of sleek sophistication and sporty. My test model's Sport Advanced Package nets new for 2024 21-inch aluminum alloys and they rock!
The 3.5T also sports side power folding mirrors that display Genesis logo puddle lamps. Two-line LED headlights flank the G-Matrix Crest Grille with combo tail lights in the rear. Roof rails sit on top.
Performance
The GV70 is a performer. That's thanks to its 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine that delivers 375-horsepower and an even more impressive 391 pound-feet of torque. This is an SUV that moves. It has amazing acceleration. Admittedly, it's not as quick off-the-line as the Electrified version - of course - which is more powerful overall. Yet it still gives you an exhilarating ride. The engine is mated to a smooth as butter 8-speed automatic transmission and the GV70 is equipped with standard all-wheel drive.
Interior
If you've never seen the cabin of a Genesis before - your jaw will drop. In fact, mine still does. Genesis' interiors remind one of a German luxury vehicle. They are exquisitely done, with impeccable craftsmanship apparent in every detail, from the slim and sleek interior door handles to the abundant stitching.
A Sport Advanced package means you sit in incredible Nappa leather seats - and oh how I do love the light Vanilla Beige interior with its fabulous microsuede headliner (Genesis reminds us to never underestimate the statement a headliner can make!) The cabin also features quality switchgear along with aluminum trim with a haptic carbon pattern.
A driver's Ergo Motion seat designed to reduce fatigue is divine and operates via the multimedia system. It also features a power cushion extender. Both power adjustable front seats are heated and ventilated. The gorgeous steering wheel is heated, too. The heating elements on the seats and steering wheel are excellent. Above the steering wheel, you're greeted by an upgraded 12.3-inch 3D digital driver display with exceptional graphics.
The leatherette-wrapped instrument panel exudes appeal. A 14.5-inch navigation touchscreen jets up from the middle dash and runs flawlessly. The multimedia system features non-wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto along with HD Radio. The touchscreen also displays your wireless charging status. What's also cool is that the navigation system displays store logos on it. Other tech includes USB ports and new for 2024, onboard Wi-Fi.
The center console is simple and gorgeous with beautiful dials. One is the gear shifter and the other can be used for handwriting.
My model's upgraded Lexicon premium audio system is excellent to be sure, but it doesn't quite surpass Acura's ELS Studio system, my current favorite.
Passengers enjoy a roomy second row with plenty of headroom despite stadium seating. Upgraded features include heated seats and manual rear sunshades. An expansive panoramic sunroof sits above.
In back, a remote power lift gate opens to a nice cargo space area.
Ride and Drive
The power is incredible on the GV70 - especially in Sport+ mode. Handling is amazing and the steering feel is engaging in every mode, even Eco! The brakes are very responsive. The ride is smooth thanks to an electronically controlled suspension with road preview. Visibility is great too. This is an SUV that makes you smile in the driver's seat.
Safety
The Genesis GV70 is equipped with Hyundai's suite of driver assistance features which are among my favorite in the industry.
New for 2024, 3.5T models feature an upgraded collision-avoidance system and adaptive cruise control with a lane-centering feature.
The top-range 3.5T model also benefits from Highway Driving Assist 2, which is fantastic a semi-autonomous system and the latest offered by Genesis. (The base model is equipped with HDA 1.) The 3.5T is also equipped with Advanced Rear Occupant Alert.
My test vehicle also adds some optional goodies: a head up display, surround view/blind spot view monitor, Remote Smart Parking Assist, parking distance warning - forward / reverse and parking collision-avoidance assist (reverse) along with forward attention warning.
Options and What You'll Pay
Options on this model include the Cardiff Green paint ($575), the Sport Advanced Package ($6,400) and the Sport Prestige Package ($3,200). Price as equipped: $68,870, which is pretty incredible given the class of luxury and certainly you'd pay more if it were a German competitor. (I have to wonder when Genesis will change its pricing to reflect that of its German competitors.)
Verdict
The Genesis GV70 remains one of my favorite luxury SUVs on the market for its gorgeous exterior, luxurious interior , safety technology and amazing performance. Be it the 3.5T or Electrified version this is an impressive SUV that continues to shine.
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- What I Liked Most: Everything.
- What I would change: Toss in some USB-C's please.
- MSRP: Base price: $57,500. As equipped: $68,870.
- Fuel Economy: 18 city/24 highway/20 combined.
- Odometer reading when tested: 1,721 miles.
- Weight: 4584 pounds.
- Spare Tire: Temporary spare.
- Length-Width-Height: 185.6"long/ 75.2” wide/ 64.2” tall.
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 17.43 gallons with the fuel filler on the driver’s side.
- Official Color: Cardiff Green ($575).
- Towing Capacity: 3,500 pounds.
- 2024 GV70 in a few words: Performance and luxury perfectly intertwined for an amazing value.
- Warranty: 5-year/60,000 mile bumper-to-bumper, 10-year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty/7-year unlimited mile anti-perforation warranty. 3-year/36,000-mile complimentary maintenance.
- Final Assembly Location: Montgomery, Alabama.
- Manufacturer's website: Genesis
