Yahoo Autos 2023 Genesis GV70 Review: So what if it’s not German?
Pros: Class-leading interior; comfortable ride; excellent tech; safety scores; standard AWD; available as an EV
Cons: Handles like a big, heavy SUV; steering is acceptable, but gets worse in Sport mode
The 2023 Genesis GV70 midsize luxury SUV is a highly competitive newcomer in this already competitive segment. It debuted for the 2022 model year and carries over with almost no change — if it ain’t broke …
Available with two potent turbocharged engines (there’s also an all-electric GV70, which is definitely a big plus, but we cover that in a separate review), its performance leaves little to be desired. Its exceptional interior puts other competitors to shame, or at least humbles them. Its tech is not only clever, but it’s easy to use — something that can rarely be said for the German competition. What the GV70 lacks in handling prowess, it makes up for in ride comfort, especially with the adaptive suspension that can read the road ahead and prepare for the bumps it encounters. Then, there’s its unique styling, which helps set it apart from its competitors.
So, while the Genesis name might not carry the same brand cachet as the likes of BMW and Mercedes, the Korean luxury brand is aiming to change that by putting out cars that match those others dollar for dollar in luxury value. Don’t pass the Genesis GV70 by just because you haven’t heard of it. A test drive might prove this is the smarter and more well-rounded way to get a feature-rich, premium crossover experience.
Interior & Technology | Passenger & Cargo Space | Performance & Fuel Economy
What it’s like to drive | Pricing & Trim Levels | Crash Ratings & Safety Features
What’s new for 2023?
There are very few changes for 2023 compared to when the GV70 debuted for the 2022 model year. Trims with “Sport” in their name get the rear brake calipers painted black to match the fronts, as well as traditional buttons on the steering wheel to replace the touch-sensitive controls. The 2.5T AWD models get some changes based on trim: Select gets Monobloc front brakes and a heated steering wheel; Advanced gets the Lexicon premium audio system; Sport Prestige gets a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and three-zone climate control. Finally, a few of the exterior paint colors have been tweaked (don’t worry, you can still get it in the Barossa Burgundy pictured above).
What are the GV70 interior and in-car technology like?
The GV70 interior is a true delight, with the Sport Advanced package providing a luxury feel second to none in the segment with Nappa leather seating, buttery-soft leatherette on the upper dash and door panels, and a suede headliner. The buttons move with a rich fluidity, and the touch-sensitive controls for a select number of infrequently used climate controls provide a modern, decluttered look without infuriating functionality. The two knobs on the center console that control the infotainment system and gear selection are also high-quality pieces, resembling fine crystal. They look different and have different textures, but unfortunately, they’re also virtually the same size and placed next to each other. You may end up changing a radio station when you really meant to put the car in drive. Maybe the placement will become second nature, maybe it’ll be a constant irritant.
The 14.5-inch widescreen infotainment display is mounted in a way that prioritizes your line of sight rather than its touchscreen capability, which means you’ll be using that aforementioned knob often. It’s well-suited to the menu structure and helps keep your eyes on the road, while having the touchscreen capability is still helpful in certain situations like using Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Altogether, this system is more user-friendly than what you’ll find in its German competitors (as well as others), and is sufficiently pretty to boot.
How big is the GV70?
In terms of interior space, the GV70 aligns closely with other rear-drive-based compact SUVs. Like others, back seat space can be surprisingly tight with a tall driver up front, and families with small kids in rear-facing car seats are bound to find a Volvo XC60 or Acura RDX a better choice. The seat itself is quite comfortable, however, with plentiful recline and sufficient headroom.
Behind the second row is a 28.9-cubic-foot cargo area, which easily fit all six bags from our standard luggage test with room to spare. Compared to other compact SUVs we’ve tested, it had more space than an Audi Q5 and previous-generation Mercedes GLC, is comparable to the Alfa Romeo Stelvio, and falls short of the Acura RDX. Ultimately, we’d judge the GV70 as having a slightly above-average cargo space for a compact luxury SUV.
What are the GV70 fuel economy and performance specs?
The standard engine in the GV70 is a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-four producing 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. All-wheel drive is standard on every GV70, as is an eight-speed automatic transmission. The 2.5T is rated at 22 miles per gallon city, 28 mpg highway and 24 mpg combined with 18- or 19-inch wheels. The Sport Prestige trim level, whether because of its 21-inch wheels or some other factor, drop those estimates to 19/26/22.
The upgrade engine is a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6, making an impressive 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. It gets 19 mpg city, 24 highway and 21 combined.
There is also the Genesis Electrified GV70. Though considered a separate model, which we have reviewed separately, it really is just a GV70 with an all-electric powertrain good for 429 hp, 516 lb-ft of torque and a range of 236 miles. That’s not great for an EV, but its recharge times are exceptional.
