2023 Genesis G70
Overview
German automakers have had their thumb on the entry-luxury sedan segment longer than print magazines have sold cigarette ads—but times have changed, and the Korean-built Genesis G70 sedan is a smoking-hot challenger. To compete against sporty sedans such as the BMW 3-series the G70 is offered at two levels of temperature: warm and hot. The base engine is a 252-hp turbocharged four-cylinder, but the 365-hp V-6 is where the G70 transcends into an experience that’s more than just comfort. Both powertrains come standard with rear-wheel drive but offer all-wheel drive for extra coin. Based on the same platform as the rowdy Kia Stinger sport sedan, the G70’s ride is controlled and as neat as the stitching on the seats. An affordable starting price supplemented by an outstanding 10-year powertrain warranty makes the G70 a sensible choice with plenty of sporty upside.
What’s New for 2023?
While the G70 was just refreshed last year, for 2023 the affordable luxury sedan sees only subtle equipment changes. The 2.0T Sport Prestige replaces the Prestige package, giving it different wheels, a dark grille, ventilated front seats, and shiny pedals. Genesis has also added a power trunk for 3.3T Sport Prestige models. In the paint department, Siberian Ice and Mallorca Blue will only be available until the end of 2022.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
Even the higher-end versions of the G70 represent a good value when compared to rival sports sedans, so we’d splurge on the Sport Prestige 3.3T model. Not only is the twin-turbo V-6 more powerful, in our testing it was nearly as efficient as the base turbo-four. The Sport Prestige trim brings just about every high-end feature Genesis has, including a head-up display, upgraded Brembo brakes, a 360-degree exterior camera system, nappa leather upholstery, a heated steering wheel, and a luxury microfiber headliner.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The base G70 2.0T features a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that sends 252 horsepower through an eight-speed automatic transmission to the rear wheels; all-wheel drive is optional. Its engine felt reserved around town even though its acceleration was peppy (60 mph in 5.8 seconds). However, our heart skipped a beat when we got behind the wheel of the twin-turbo 3.3-liter V-6 model, with its 365 ponies and 376 pound-feet of torque. We spent some personal time with the rear-drive 3.3T and were smitten by the engine’s wave of thrust that sent it from zero to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds in our testing. Regardless of the powertrain configuration, the G70 has expertly balanced ride and handling characteristics. Its suspension smoothed out uneven surfaces, and the sedan remained composed during spirited cornering sessions. The more powerful 3.3T has the benefit of adaptive dampers that allow the driver to firm up the ride if necessary, but every G70 we’ve driven did a remarkable job of sending information to the driver’s hands. Its steering feedback is precise and pleasant, with adjustable effort available by switching among the multiple drive modes.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
According to the EPA, the most efficient G70 model is the rear-wheel drive version with the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. That car earned ratings of 22 mpg city, 30 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined. On our 200-mile highway fuel economy test, the four-cylinder G70 delivered 31 mpg; with the twin-turbo V-6 on-board, we recorded an impressive 29 mpg. For more information about the G70’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Inside, the G70 delivers a luxury experience, thanks to attractive materials and excellent build quality. Its driver-centric layout and straightforward controls cater to driving enthusiasts. Likewise, the upscale brightwork and decoratively stitched surfaces on our test car appeased our affluent side. Genesis also keeps things classy by avoiding the urge to plaster faux carbon-fiber bits and a flat-bottom steering wheel into the cabin, and the result is an interior that seems more luxurious than the Alfa Romeo Giulia’s. While the front seat strikes a nice balance between comfort and sport, the rear seat is compromised by limited legroom. We managed to fit five carry-on bags in the G70’s trunk, and 14 total with the rear seat folded. Interior cubby storage includes a useful tray at the front of the center console that is perfect for smartphones and other small items. Unfortunately, the door pockets are small, and the center-console bin lacks organization.
The Car and Driver Difference
Infotainment and Connectivity
Every G70 is fitted with a standard 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system that protrudes from the otherwise clean dashboard. The setup includes desirable features, such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. We’ll know more about the 2022 G70’s infotainment offerings closer to the car’s on-sale date.
How to Buy and Maintain a Car
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The G70 boasts several standard driver-assist technologies, such as adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go technology and forward-collision warning with automated emergency braking. For more information about the G70’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:
Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection Standard lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist Standard adaptive cruise control
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Genesis covers every G70 with an exceptional warranty and complimentary scheduled maintenance. The luxury brand also offers a valet service—by appointment—where it will pick up and drop off the vehicle for maintenance visits and provide a loaner Genesis model for use in the meantime.
Limited warranty covers 5 years or 60,000 miles Powertrain warranty covers 10 years or 100,000 miles Complimentary scheduled maintenance is covered for 3 years or 36,000 miles
Specifications
Specifications
2022 Genesis G70
VEHICLE TYPE
front-engine, rear- or all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan
BASE PRICE
2.0T, $38,570; 2.0T AWD, $40,670; 3.3T, $43,145; 3.3T AWD, $45,245
ENGINES
turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve 2.0-liter inline-4, 252 hp, 2 lb-ft; twin-turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 24-valve 3.3-liter V-6, 365 or 368 hp, 376 lb-ft
TRANSMISSION
8-speed automatic
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 111.6 in
Length: 184.4 in
Width: 72.8 in
Height: 55.1 in
Passenger volume: 96 ft3
Trunk volume: 11 ft3
Curb weight (C/D est): 3700–4000 lb
PERFORMANCE (C/D EST)
60 mph: 4.3–6.2 sec
100 mph: 10.8–16.0 sec
1/4 mile: 12.9–14.9 sec
Top speed: 145–167 mph
EPA FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/city/highway: 20¬–24/17¬–21/25–31 mpg
More Features and Specs
