The 2023 Genesis Electrified GV70 Is Yet Another Knockout

If you've been paying attention to the rise of Genesis, it should come as no surprise that the Electrified GV70 is excellent. It is, as the name implies, an all-electric version of the GV70, Genesis's Audi Q5/BMW X3/Mercedes GLC competitor. The gas-powered GV70 was already at the top of its class—this electric version just makes it even better.

Unlike the smaller GV60, the Electrified GV70 doesn't ride on a dedicated EV platform. It's also decidedly less avant garde than its little sibling, with more conventional luxury-car styling and a more traditional interior. The GV60, Genesis says, is for EV purists; the Electrified GV70 is for luxury crossover buyers who just so happen to want an EV. A subtle, yet key distinction.

A 77.4-kWh battery mounted under the floor powers a 214-hp motor at each axle and provides 236 miles of range. Total system output is 429 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque, though a boost button on the bottom spoke of the steering wheel ups this to 483 hp for 10 seconds, available multiple times in a row until the battery dips below a 25-percent charge. Prices start at $67,550 for the very-well-equipped Advanced package, while the ritzier Prestige commands $74,350. As it's built in Hyundai's Alabama plant—a first for a Genesis model—it qualifies for the up-to-$7500 federal tax credit for new EVs.

This is one of those cars that'll wow you within the first mile. The interior is better than anything you'll find for under $100,000, and the electric powertrain brings effortless performance and refinement. The Electrified GV70 is fast, and even without using the Boost mode, it rockets up to highway speeds with total ease. From a standstill with Boost mode, all four Michelin 265/45R20 Primacy Tour all-seasons momentarily break traction, and if you're on a decently cambered road, you even get a bit of torque steer. It's a riot.

To accommodate the extra weight of the electric powertrain, Genesis made a number of chassis tweaks resulting in more torsional rigidity. This strength allows Genesis to tune the ride-handling balance to perfection and provides a wonderful feeling of solidity. We drove this car in the Atlanta metropolitan area, on a route that didn't involve many rough roads, yet on the few bigger bumps we found, the GV70 smoothed everything out. On a country road, the GV70 isn't quite as eager or engaging as a Porsche Macan, but it's more than competent. You can set a great pace, and the composure is such that it's easy to drive way too fast.

Like the GV60, the Electrified GV70 primarily uses the rear motor in Eco and Normal drive modes, whereas in Sport, the front is much quicker to come online, giving it a more distinctly all-wheel-drive feel. I think I actually prefer using Normal mode, for that reason, but you don't get as much instant acceleration. Either way, it's enjoyable and relaxing to drive. Also aiding relaxation is Hyundai's excellent Highway Driving Assist, which follows the car ahead and keeps you centered in your lane. This comes as standard and gets a number of improvements for the Electrified GV70, including the ability to steer you away from a car crowding your lane. The system is intuitive to activate, coming online with a simple steering wheel button.