With this GV70, luxury brand Genesis offers an alternative to the usual Teutonic mid-sized premium SUV formula. Jonathan Crouch drives it.

Ten Second Review

The GV70 is Korean maker Genesis showing us what it believes a mid-sized premium badged SUV should be. It'll be a rare sight on our roads but the right kind of customer might well like this car's beautifully finished spacious cabin, assured driving dynamics and class leading customer support package.

Background

Let's assume that you're thinking of choosing a mid-sized premium badged SUV. But you want something different from the BMW X3s, Audi Q5s and Mercedes GLCs that your friends and business acquaintances drive. There are other options in this class from Volvo, Alfa Romeo and Lexus of course, but none of them are quite as left-field as the car we're going to look at here, the Genesis GV70. You probably won't have heard of it - or of the Genesis brand either, which is the posh division of the Hyundai Motor Group that's rapidly making a name for itself in the UK. The GV70 is the SUV version of the brand's G70, a BMW 3 Series-sized model offered in saloon or 'Shooting Brake' estate forms. There's a larger GV80 SUV in the Genesis range if the GV70 isn't quite big enough, but we're guessing this car might suit a lot of people in this segment very well. And, as with all Genesis models, it comes with a level of customer service back-up that rivals can't approach.

Driving Experience

Interestingly, Genesis isn't bothering with any form of hybrid engine for this car, even though it has access to mild hybrid, full-Hybrid and PHEV Hybrid powerplants from Hyundai. Instead, most customers choose between two conventional four cylinder combustion units. As on the G70 saloon and 'Shooting Brake' estate models, there's a 2.5-litre turbocharged petrol and a 2.2-litre diesel. The petrol puts out 300bhp, makes 62mph in 6.1s and tops out at 149mph. For the diesel, it's 206bhp and the figures are 7.9s and 133mph. Like other models in this class, this one's all-wheel driven and auto-only - a smooth 8-speed 'box. You can specify an e-LSD limited slip differential for extra cornering traction. There's no air suspension option (which would have suited the feel of Genesis brand), but all models get road scanning adaptive damping that prepares the shocks for bumps before you reach them. Don't expect too much in terms of handling enjoyment, but outside of a Porsche Macan, no car in this class really offers that. What you do get is superb refinement. If you really prioritise frugality in your GV70, you'll want to look at the pricier electrified version. With that, twin motors, one on each axle, deliver 4WD and a potent 483bhp output, while the 77.4kWh battery manages a WLTP-rated range reading of 249 miles between charges.

Design and Build

The 'V' in the title stands for versatile and most owners should find this mid-sized Genesis SUV to be just that. Stylist Luc Donckerwolke and his team haven't been tempted into offering the kind of falling coupe-style roof line that characterises some rivals, so the 4.7-metre-long shape is practical, plus it's well finished, though not particularly arresting. You might be more sold on the rather plush cabin. Up front, there's a big 15.4-inch central touchscreen which can be operated by a touchpad controller dial you'll constantly mistake for the similarly-shaped gear selector until you get used to the car. The air vents sit in a sweeping satin metal-brushed line of trim that flows across the dashboard. Everything's beautifully finished and the driving position is optimum, though not particularly high set. You also get the option of a set of 3D-effect digital instruments. Three adults could sit in the rear with decent head and knee room. And out back, a powered tailgate raises to reveal a 542-litre boot.

Market and Model

At the time of this test in Spring 2023, prices started at just under £41,000 for this 206bhp 2.2-litre diesel model. The starting point for the 300bhp 2.5-litre petrol turbo model we tried is £42,000. In either case, that gets you base 'Premium Line' trim; it's £2,350 more for 'Sport Line' trim; or £3,370 more for top 'Luxury Line' spec. There's also a full-EV version too, with 483bhp; expect a price in the region of around £65,000 for one of those. Genesis doesn't have a network of UK dealerships. Instead, everything is done via so-called Genesis 'Studios' - which will be shopfronts in upmarket shopping centres. One has already been opened in London and others will follow. But you don't have to go to one of those. You simply connect with Genesis online, then you'll be allocated your own Genesis Personal Assistant who'll take you through the sales process, from test drive to delivery - and they'll deal with after-care as well. This Assistant isn't won't be salaried on commission as an ordinary car salesperson would be, so you won't get any hard sell.

Cost of Ownership

In 2.2-litre diesel form, this GV70 is reasonably economic - quoted at 38.0-40.0mpg on the combined cycle, with a CO2 best of 185g/km. With the 2.0-litre petrol engine, those readings fall to 27.9-29.7mpg with a CO2 best of 216g/km. Insurance is rated at either 40D or 41D for the diesel; and 44D or for the petrol. The alternative is the full-Electric version. In this form, the car gets twin electric motors powered by a 77.4kWh battery which, when fully charged, delivers a rather unremarkable 249 mile WLTP-rated driving range. As with all EVs from the Hyundai Motor Group, the powertrain's underpinned by an 800-volt electric architecture, which means that unlike most of its rivals, the car can use ultra-fast 350kW chargers - such as those provided by IONITY. In the unlikely event you can find one of those, a 10-80% battery top-up will take just 18 minutes. Every Genesis is covered by a 5 year Care Plan which includes scheduled servicing for 5 years or 50,000 miles. With each service visit, Genesis will collect and return the car to your door. This also applies to any necessary work required, including warranty work. You simply contact your Genesis Personal Assistant to make it happen. Who can also arrange a courtesy car. The 5 year Care Plan also includes updates to in-car navigational maps. And there's complimentary subscription to Genesis Connected Services, which will allow you to access information services from your 'phone to digitally enhance your ownership experience.

Summary

If the last few years have taught us anything, it's that it's time to do something different. That should certainly apply to the factors that influence our purchase decisions. Take the choice of a car of this kind. The German establishment in this class focuses on technology and drive dynamics. This Genesis can offer that too, but the emphasis here is more on comfort and the ownership experience. Those things ought to matter more for customers in this sector. That's what Genesis is hoping anyway. If those promises are enough to get you into the driving seat of a GV70, we think you'll find plenty to like. Quality that's a match for anything in the class, comfort, refinement and more equipment for less money than rivals will charge you. OK, so people will wonder what you've bought, but isn't that a good thing? This Genesis needs a wider range of engines and some electrification options, but there's not much else wrong with it. You heard that here first.

Body Glass

Automatic window defogger

Rain sensor

Rear wash/wipe

Standard rear side backlight glass

Laminated front side glass

Acoustic windshield film

Brakes

Rear brake ventilated disc 345mm

Front brake ventilated disc 360mm

ABS + ESC + DBC + HAC + TSA (Trailer Stability Assist) + MCB (Multi Collision Brake)

Electronic parking brake with auto hold

Chassis/Suspension

Preview electronically controlled suspension

Communication

Bluetooth connection with voice recognition

E-call

Driver Aids

Drive mode select

Lighting backup guidelines

Manual speed limit assist (MSLA)

Lane keeping assist (LKA)

Blind spot collision avoidance assist rear (BCA-R)

Intelligent speed limit assist (ISLA)

SCC smart cruise control with stop and start

Rear parking sensors with button

Lane Following Assist (LFA)

Power assisted steering

Driver Convenience

Electric rear tailgate opening and height adjustable

Driving Mirrors

Electrochromic inside rear view mirror

Outside electrical adjustment and heated rear mirror

Outside electrical folding rear mirror

Electrochromic outside rear view mirrors

Embellishment Trims

Leatherette dashboard

Entertainment

Steering wheel audio remote control

2 USB rear

2 port USB front charger console

14.5" Navi screen + DAB radio + Phone mirroring + Genesis connected

Exterior Body Features

Standard appearance

Outside door handles chrome coating

Rear side wing doors

Body coloured bumpers

Exterior Lights

Automatic headlights with dusk sensor

LED rear stop lamp

LED daytime running lights

LED rear fog lamps

Puddle lamps with logo

LED rear combination lamps

Heating/Cooling/Ventilation

Console ventilation duct

Front air condition with dual zone adjustment

Premium air filter

3 zone auto air conditioning and temperature control in rear

Interior Features

Aluminium interior garnish

Lever type paddle shifter

Power tilt telescopic steering wheel with memory seat

Console storage box

Leatherette console box

Cup holder at centre armrest

Finger print reader authentication

Power outlet for trunk

Power outlet for rear (lower centre console)

Rear luggage cover

Leather steering wheel

Heated steering wheel

Interior Lights

Ambient lighting

Packs

Trailer pack - GV70

Innovation pack - GV70

Safety

Forward collision avoidance system (car/pedestrian/bicycle)

Tyre pressure monitoring system

Rear seat alert without sensors

ISOFIX rear child anchor with upper and lower

Driver and passenger airbag

3x3 point rear seat belts

Driver knee airbag

Front center side airbags

Front thorax and pelvis + curtain airbags

Seats

2 way electric height adjustable driver's seat

Single front passenger seat

2 way electric height adjust front passenger seat

4 way electric driver lumbar support

4 way manual headrest adjust for front seats

4 way electrically adjustable driver and passenger seat with walk-in device

Rear headrests

2nd row heating floor output

60:40 split back folding rear seats

3 seat bench in 2nd row

Memory function for driver seat

Security

Smart key/button start

Immobiliser

Manual child lock + Deadlock + Cat 1 alarm

Central door lock driver's and passenger's control

Wheels

Michelin tyres

Summer tyres pilot sport 4

Wheels - Alloy

21" Dark sputtering design A alloy wheels

Wheels - Spare

Temporary mobility kit (TMK)

Emissions - ICE

Standard Euro Emissions: EURO 6

Noise Level dB(A): 68

HC: N

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb: 193

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Low - TEL: 243

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Low - TEH: 275

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Medium - TEL: 192

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Medium - TEH: 200

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - High - TEL: 162

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - High - TEH: 171

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Extra High - TEL: 194

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Extra High - TEH: 198

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb - TEH: 200

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb - TEL: 191

Engine and Drive Train

Cylinders - Bore (mm): 83

Cylinders - Stroke (mm): 99.4

CC: 2151

Cylinders: 4

Cylinder Layout: IN-LINE

Number of Valves: 16

Camshaft: DOHC

Fuel Delivery: COMMON RAIL

Catalytic Convertor: No

Compression Ratio: 16.0:1

Transmission: AUTO

Gears: 8 SPEED

Engine Code: 2HC5

Fuel Consumption - ICE

EC Directive 1999/100/EC Applies: 0

WLTP - MPG - Low: 29.4

WLTP - MPG - Medium: 38.2

WLTP - MPG - High: 44.8

WLTP - MPG - Extra High: 38.2

WLTP - MPG - Comb: 38.2

WLTP - MPG - Low - TEL: 30.5

WLTP - MPG - Low - TEH: 27

WLTP - MPG - Medium - TEL: 38.5

WLTP - MPG - Medium - TEH: 37.1

WLTP - MPG - High - TEL: 45.8

WLTP - MPG - High - TEH: 43.4

WLTP - MPG - Extra High - TEL: 38.3

WLTP - MPG - Extra High - TEH: 37.4

WLTP - MPG - Comb - TEL: 39

WLTP - MPG - Comb - TEH: 37

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Low: 9.6

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Medium: 7.4

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - High: 6.3

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Extra High: 7.4

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Comb: 7.4

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Low - TEL: 9.3

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Low - TEH: 10.5

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Medium - TEL: 7.3

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Medium - TEH: 7.6

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - High - TEL: 6.2

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - High - TEH: 6.5

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Extra High - TEL: 7.4

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Extra High - TEH: 7.5

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Comb - TEL: 7.2

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Comb - TEH: 7.6

General

Coin Series: Luxury [Innov]

Coin Description: D [201]

Standard manufacturers warranty - Years: 5

Standard manufacturers warranty - Mileage: 999999

Did at least one aspect of this vehicle's safety give cause for concern?: 0

Special Edition: 0

Special Order: 0

Based On ID: N

Insurance Group 1 - 50 Effective January 07: 41D

Service Interval Mileage: 10000

Service Interval Frequency - Months: 12

NCAP Adult Occupant Protection %: 89

NCAP Child Occupant Protection %: 87

NCAP Pedestrian Protection %: 64

NCAP Safety Assist %: 87

NCAP Overall Rating - Effective February 09: 5

Badge Power: 201

Badge Engine CC: 2.2

Vehicle Homologation Class: M1

AdBlue: No

Generation Mark: 1

Alternative Fuel Qualifying: 0

Performance

0 to 62 mph (secs): 7.9

Top Speed: 133

Engine Power - BHP: 201

Engine Power - PS: No

0 to 60 mph (secs): 0

Engine Power - KW: 148

Engine Power - RPM: 3800

Engine Torque - LBS.FT: 325

Engine Torque - NM: 440

Engine Torque - RPM: 1750

Engine Torque - MKG: 44.9

Test Cycles

Emissions Test Cycle: WLTP

RDE Certification Level: RDE 2

Tyres

Tyre Size Front: 255/40 R21

Tyre Size Rear: 255/40 R21

Tyre Size Spare: TYRE REPAIR KIT

Wheel Type: 21" ALLOY

Wheel Style: N

Alloys?: No

Space Saver?: 0

Vehicle Dimensions

Length: 4715

Width: 1910

Wheelbase: 2875

Width (including mirrors): 2165

Height: 1630

Height (including roof rails): N

Weight and Capacities

Minimum Kerbweight: 2020

Gross Vehicle Weight: 2545

Fuel Tank Capacity (Litres): 66

Max. Towing Weight - Braked: 2500

Max. Towing Weight - Unbraked: 750

Max. Loading Weight: 525

Luggage Capacity (Seats Up): 542

No. of Seats: 5

Max. Roof Load: 100

Luggage Capacity (Seats Down): 1678

Turning Circle - Kerb to Kerb: 11.5

Exterior Body Features

Pearlescent paint

Front grille with chrome upper trim

Matt paint

Metallic paint

Interior Features

Garnish backlight

Packs

Lexicon audio system pack - GV70

Nappa leather seat pack - Luxury GV70

Sunroof pack - GV70

Comfort seat pack - GV70

2nd row comfort seat pack - GV70

Paint - Metallic

Metallic - Vik black

Metallic - Savile silver

Metallic - Storr green

Metallic - Makalu grey

Paint - Pearlescent

Pearl - Uyuni white

Pearl - Capri blue

Paint - Solid

Solid - Alta white

Paint - Special

Matt - Storr green

Matt - Makalau grey

Transmission

Electronic limited slip differential

Trim - Leather

Leather - Vanilla beige/Obsidian black with Vanilla beige headlining

Nappa leather seat pack - Havana brown/Ocean waves with Ocean waves suede headlining

Nappa leather seat pack - Pine grove/Ocean waves with pine grove suede headlining

Nappa leather seat pack - Vanilla Beige/Obsidian Black with vanilla beige suede headlining

Nappa leather seat pack - Obsidian black with vanilla beige suede headlining

Leather - Obsidian black with Vanilla beige headlining

Nappa leather seat pack - Velvet burgundy/obsidian black with obsidian black suede headlining