Genesis has been on a roll lately with the recent introductions of the new G80 and the GV80 SUV. Now it’s after even more market share in the luxury segment with the introduction of the 2022 GV70, a smaller SUV that will rival other competitors, like the Porsche Macan. Several automakers try to rival Porsche, but not many succeed, but that’s not the case with the GV70. It’s a great small luxury SUV that sits at the top of the ranks.
The 2022 Genesis GV70 shares its platform with the G70, another one of our favorites. It features many of the same styling cues as the G70 and larger Genesis models. Genesis is making it no secret that it’s targeting the Macan. Look at the shape of the GV70 and it’s pretty easy to see the similarities. Either way the GV70 looks great with its swoopy and aggressive exterior.
Inside the GV70 features a stylish and super luxurious interior. The top spec Sport Prestige will rival anything else in its class with its Nappa leather and suede seats, carbon fiber accents. Even its crystalline control knob for the infotainment system looks special. Everything is laid out well and is worthy of the GV70’s luxury label. The interior also comes in some cool colors, if black or beige isn’t your taste, like Havana Brown, Ultramarine Blue, Pine Grove Green and Sevilla Red.
The GV70 comes standard with a 14.5-inch display that sits on top of the dashboard. You can operate the infotainment system with the rotary knob, but if you hate that, the panel is also a touchscreen. The screen is a bit far from reach, which explains why the rotary knob is there, but if you’re sitting at a stop light, it’s easier to make selections using the touchscreen. The only gripe we have with the rotary dial is that it’s shape and size are pretty close to the rotary shifter, making it easy to grab the wrong one when you’re looking at the road ahead. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, in addition to a nine-speaker audio system and wireless charging for your phone.
There’s also a cool fingerprint reader on the dashboard that lets you select different driver profile and even start the GV70 without a key. A Digital Key is also available, which lets you unlock, lock and even share a virtual key from your phone. The GV70 comes standard with so many items, like heated front seats, adaptive cruise control, lane centering, a blind-spot monitor and rear parking sensors. Lastly there’s an optional 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster.
The front area is super comfortable and spacious, but legroom in the rear is a little short.
Under the hood buyers can choose from two engines. The base engine is a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. The more powerful engine is a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 with a nice 375 hp and 391 lb-ft. Both engines are mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and a standard all-wheel drive system that can send 100 percent of the torque to the rear wheels.
The V6 packs a nice punch around town, making the GV70 more fun to drive than some of its predecessors, although there is some noticeable turbo lag. The V6-powered Macan models do have a bit more bit, but the Macan also comes with a more painful price tag.
The four-cylinder is rated at 22 mpg city, 28 mpg highway and 24 mpg combined, while the V6 is rated at 19/25/21 mpg.
On the road the firm suspension does a great job of limiting body roll, although on rougher roads the suspension may feel a bit too stiff. It’s steering provides great feedback and it’s more responsive than you’d expect in an SUV. Where the GV70 trails the Macan is on those back country roads. The suspension tries to provide an athletic driving experience, but it’s more happy on calmer roads.
If you like what you’re reading so far, the GV70 will likely be even more appealing when you consider its starting price. The 2022 GV70 starts at a reasonable $42,595, making it cheaper than the Audi Q5, BMW X3 and Porsche Macan. The V6-powered GV70 starts at $54,195. The top of the line GV70 3.5T Sport Prestige is priced at $64,095.
The 2022 Genesis GV70 stands out in the small luxury SUV segment with its stylish exterior, luxurious interior and great driving experience. It’s easily one of our favorites.
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