2022 Genesis GV70: 5 Things We Like and 4 We Don’t
Ever since Genesis was established as its own brand in 2015, Hyundai’s luxury offshoot has been on an impressive trajectory as a viable alternative to more established brands. The new GV70, a compact luxury SUV, is the latest effort in that mission — and it largely succeeds as an alternative to the Audi Q5, BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC, among others.
Related: 2022 Genesis GV70 Review: Has Genesis Finally Nailed It?
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Shop the 2022 Genesis GV70 near you
With loads of tech features, lively powertrain choices, athletic handling and an interior that’s both luxurious and stylish, the GV70 is more proof that Genesis is ready for prime time.
Based on the same platform as the G70 sport sedan, the GV70 is similarly fun to drive, but it adds standard all-wheel drive and the space and versatility of an SUV.
As good as it is, we still have a few nits to pick. Here are five things we like about the 2022 Genesis GV70 and four we don’t. For Cars.com’s complete evaluation of the Hyundai GV70, tap the link above to read Brian Normile’s complete review. For a quick look at what works and what doesn’t, read on.
Things We Like
1. Fun Behind the Wheel
The GV70 feels nimble and responsive to drive, with little body roll and decent steering feel. A standard adaptive suspension lets you dial up an impressively absorbent ride or firm things up as desired. We noticed some impact harshness in our test vehicle, but we wrote that off to its big 21-inch wheels and low-profile tires. Other wheel choices go as small as 18 inches, with the attendant higher-profile tires, which would likely soften those impacts.
2. Stylish, High-Quality Interior
With rich Nappa leather upholstery and suede inserts in our test car, along with soft-touch surfaces and a striking design with elliptical housings for various components, the GV70’s interior is both luxurious and less conservative-looking than some competitors. The overall effect is distinctive yet welcoming and upscale — both retro and futuristic at the same time.
3. Multimedia System
The standard 14.5-inch touchscreen is large and sharp with crisp graphics. It’s also positioned atop the dash, where it’s easier to see. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility are standard, although neither one features the wireless connectivity proliferating across the industry. Display notwithstanding, the screen requires quite a reach from the driver’s seat, to the point where even taller drivers will find it a stretch. The console-mounted control knob helps, but those are never an ideal solution and can be awkward to use.
4. Good Safety Score
The 2022 GV70 performed well enough in safety evaluations from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety to earn the agency’s highest award, Top Safety Pick Plus. Genesis offers an extensive list of driver-assistance features for drivers with safety as a top-of-mind priority.
5. Friendly Pricing
GV70 prices start at just over $42,000 (all prices include destination), making it somewhat of a bargain versus other compact luxury SUVs. Our test vehicle came to $65,045, which is closer to the price of some of its more performance-focused competitors. But those can quickly escalate with options.
Things We Don’t Like
1. Drivetrain Lag
Despite the GV70’s ability to push you back into the seat once the engine’s turbochargers spool up, we noticed a bit of turbo lag from the optional 3.5-liter V-6 in our test car. Choosing the driver-selectable Sport or Sport Plus modes seemed to improve response time, although the latter is only available with GV70 Sport trim levels. Beyond that, the GV70’s 3.5-liter V-6 makes 375 horsepower, and it pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission — enough to be grin-inducing quick, with strong acceleration once the turbos spool up. A 300-hp, turbo 2.5-liter four-cylinder is also available for drivers not needing quite so much punch.
2. Tough Brakes
Another complaint we have with the driving experience in the GV70 is with its brakes. The pedal felt stiff, requiring a lot of effort. Worse yet, the brakes felt like they were being overworked once they did engage, requiring additional effort to bring the GV70 to a stop.
3. Limited Interior Room
A wide center console can intrude on front driver and passenger space, which some might find bothersome. The rear seat offers decent legroom and headroom, but taller passengers might find insufficient room if the front seats are adjusted rearward. Cargo room is also limited compared to some rivals.
4. Dueling Controllers
The GV70 uses not one but two similarly sized control knobs on the center console, which can get confusing. One is the controller for the multimedia system mentioned above, while the other is the electronic gear selector. To Genesis’ credit, the knobs have different textures, making it easier to tell one from the other without looking. But we found ourselves reaching for the wrong one more than once.
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- 2022 Genesis G70 Review: Feels New All Over Again
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