Genesis is coming out swinging with some hot new models, and one that should prove to be a hot seller is the all-new 2022 GV70. Sure, the GV80 already exists. But when you want to sell even more cars, the trick is to take a good-looking crossover, shrink it, and let the cash roll in. This one, thankfully, is worth it.
The GV70 is best thought of as a thicker, chunkier version of the excellent G70 sedan. It’s packing nice, aggressive styling. This includes the elements that work from the GV80 but in a tighter package. The grille looks better. Have a gander at the lower fascia. And soak in that shoulder line and rear spoiler.
Inside, Genesis has given the GV70 an almost art deco aesthetic with a modern twist. It sounds crazy, but it works. Plus, Genesis is offering a rainbow of color choices for the cabin space. Factor this with the top-notch fit and finish, and the GV70 is a winner both inside and out.
The GV70 interior
Genesis
What’s new for 2022?
The 2022 Genesis GV70 is a completely new vehicle. It features powertrains and styling taken from the larger GV80, but it’s a brand new model.
What we like
- Standout styling
- Exciting powertrain choices
- Standard AWD
- Tremendous value for the segment
- Top-tier interior
What we don’t
- Lack of a hybrid option
- Interior styling could almost be too much for some
How much?
Likely just under $40,000 – High $40,000
Fuel economy
Genesis offers a choice of engines with the GV70. The standard setup is a 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder. It should produce around 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. Stepping up, you’ll find a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6. This more powerful engine delivers 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. Each engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is standard.
The Genesis GV70
Genesis
The larger twin-turbocharged V6 is rated to return 19 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. We’re waiting to hear from the EPA regarding the smaller engine but it should prove a bit more efficient.
Standard features and options
Genesis is still finalizing its packaging, but the GV70 does come very well equipped out the gate. We expect to find similar trim naming as the GV80, which means Standard, Advanced, and Prestige models. On top of that, Genesis will offer a Sport package. This includes more aggressive front and rear fascias, unique wheels, and oversize exhaust outlets.
Also on MarketWatch: The 2021 Acura NSX: A supercar for everyday thrills
Inside, the GV70 offers a large 14.5-inch central screen with a crisp, clear display. A 12.3-inch display houses the gauge cluster. There’s actually a fingerprint scanner as well, which lets you customize different driver profiles that are accessed with a quick scan of a fingertip. That’s just the tip of the tech here, as Genesis also offers AR augmented navigation directions, touch controls with handwriting recognition, and fine-dust air filtration in the climate control system.
Safety
If you put someone in the rear seat, the GV70 lets you know they’re back there when you power off the vehicle. When you’re still moving, the GV70 has Forward Collision-Avoidance Assistance, which aims to avoid or at least mitigate any accidents with a vehicle or object ahead. It also detects potential incidents off to the side during lane changes.
Genesis has fitted the GV70 with all of its latest safety tech.
Also see: BMW’s new i4 is set to take on Tesla with 523 hp and a 300-mile range
Behind the wheel
We have not yet driven the GV70. That said, we’re excited to do so considering it has the same engines as the larger GV80 but in a smaller, lighter package.
Other cars to consider
2021 Acura RDX: A near-luxury compact crossover that boasts the best seats in the class. The Acura RDX is a shockingly fun vehicle to drive as well thanks to the excellent SH-AWD system and torquey turbocharged engine.
2021 Audi Q5: Audi continues to refine the Q5 and make it better. The German automaker is delivering vehicles equipped with some of the best tech on the market. Plus the plug-in hybrid version delivers truly usable EV mileage while also being as quick off the line as the sportier SQ5.
2021 BMW X3: BMW BMW, +0.20% manages to take its wonderful 3-Series driving dynamics and upsize them into this compact crossover shape.
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC: Everything you like about the C-Class, but in the body style you’re probably looking for. The Mercedes-Benz GLC drives like a luxury wagon minus the woodgrain. You’re going to pay for the privilege of putting that three-pointed star in your garage, but you’ll appreciate it every time you fire it up.
Read next: The 12 best new cars of the year
Autotrader’s advice
Genesis has knocked it out of the park with this one. It’s just as good as the far more expensive offerings from the German automakers. You’re getting a real-deal luxury crossover with two great engine choices and standout styling. On top of that, you’re paying less to get it. How can you not get excited about the all-new GV70?
This story originally ran on Autotrader.com.
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