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

Rear side and backlite privacy glass

Automatic window defogger

Rain sensor

Rear wash/wipe

Acoustic windshield film

Laminated front side glass

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

E-call

Bluetooth connection with voice recognition

Driver Aids

Rear view camera with dynamic guidelines on screen

Lighting backup guidelines

Lane keeping assist (LKA)

Manual speed limit assist (MSLA)

Blind spot collision avoidance assist rear (BCA-R)

Intelligent speed limit assist (ISLA)

SCC smart cruise control with stop and start

Drive mode select

Lane Following Assist (LFA)

Power assisted steering

Rear parking sensors with button

Driver Convenience

Electric rear tailgate opening and height adjustable

Driver Information

8" Dashboard cluster TFT display

Driving Mirrors

Outside electrical folding rear mirror

Electrochromic outside rear view mirrors

Outside electrical adjustment and heated rear mirror

Electrochromic inside rear view mirror

Embellishment Trims

Leatherette dashboard

Entertainment

2 USB rear

2 port USB front charger console

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

Steering wheel audio remote control

Exterior Body Features

Rear side wing doors

Outside door handles chrome coating

Exterior Lights

LED daytime running lights

Automatic headlights with dusk sensor

LED rear stop lamp

LED rear fog lamps

Dual front LED low and high projection headlamps with high beam

LED rear combination lamps

Puddle lamps with logo

Heating/Cooling/Ventilation

Front air condition with dual zone adjustment

Premium air filter

3 zone auto air conditioning and temperature control in rear

Console ventilation duct

Interior Features

Lever type paddle shifter

Aluminium interior garnish

Power tilt telescopic steering wheel with memory seat

Console storage box

Finger print reader authentication

Cup holder at centre armrest

Power outlet for rear (lower centre console)

Leatherette console box

Power outlet for trunk

Leather steering wheel

Rear luggage cover

Heated steering wheel

Interior Lights

Ambient lighting

Packs

Sport appearance pack - GV70

Trailer pack - GV70

Safety

Driver and passenger airbag

Forward collision avoidance system (car/pedestrian/bicycle)

Tyre pressure monitoring system

Rear seat alert without sensors

ISOFIX rear child anchor with upper and lower

FCA - J Forward collision avoidance system with junction and crossing

3x3 point rear seat belts

Driver knee airbag

Front center side airbags

Front thorax and pelvis + curtain airbags

Seats

2nd row heating floor output

2 way electric height adjust front passenger seat

2 way electric height adjustable driver's seat

4 way manual headrest adjust for front seats

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

Single front passenger seat

Rear headrests

60:40 split back folding rear seats

3 seat bench in 2nd row

Memory function for driver seat

4 way electric driver lumbar support

Security

Immobiliser

Smart key/button start

Manual child lock + Deadlock + Cat 1 alarm

Central door lock driver's and passenger's control

Wheels

Summer tyres pilot sport 4

Michelin tyres

Wheels - Spare

Space saver spare wheel

Emissions - ICE

Standard Euro Emissions: EURO 6

Noise Level dB(A): 68

HC+NOx: N

Particles: N

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb: 217

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Low - TEL: 333

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Low - TEH: 344

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Medium - TEL: 211

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Medium - TEH: 227

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - High - TEL: 179

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - High - TEH: 194

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Extra High - TEL: 207

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Extra High - TEH: 220

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb - TEH: 230

WLTP - CO2 (g/km) - Comb - TEL: 216

Engine and Drive Train

Cylinders - Bore (mm): 88.5

Cylinders - Stroke (mm): 101.5

CC: 2497

Cylinders: 4

Cylinder Layout: IN-LINE

Number of Valves: 16

Camshaft: DOHC

Fuel Delivery: TURBO DIRECT INJECTION

Catalytic Convertor: No

Compression Ratio: 10.5:1

Transmission: AUTO

Gears: 8 SPEED

Engine Code: L9G1

Fuel Consumption - ICE

EC Directive 1999/100/EC Applies: 0

WLTP - MPG - Low: 19.2

WLTP - MPG - Medium: 30.4

WLTP - MPG - High: 35.8

WLTP - MPG - Extra High: 30.7

WLTP - MPG - Comb: 29.7

WLTP - MPG - Low - TEL: 19.3

WLTP - MPG - Low - TEH: 18.7

WLTP - MPG - Medium - TEL: 30.5

WLTP - MPG - Medium - TEH: 28.3

WLTP - MPG - High - TEL: 35.9

WLTP - MPG - High - TEH: 33.1

WLTP - MPG - Extra High - TEL: 31

WLTP - MPG - Extra High - TEH: 29.2

WLTP - MPG - Comb - TEL: 29.7

WLTP - MPG - Comb - TEH: 27.9

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Low: 14.7

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Medium: 9.3

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - High: 7.9

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Extra High: 9.2

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Comb: 9.5

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Low - TEL: 14.7

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Low - TEH: 15.1

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

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Medium - TEH: 10

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - High - TEL: 7.9

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - High - TEH: 8.5

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Extra High - TEL: 9.1

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Extra High - TEH: 9.7

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Comb - TEL: 9.5

WLTP - FC (l/100km) - Comb - TEH: 10.1

General

Coin Series: Sport

Coin Description: T

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: 44D

Service Interval Mileage: 9000

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: 304

Badge Engine CC: 2.5

Vehicle Homologation Class: M1

Generation Mark: 1

Alternative Fuel Qualifying: 0

Performance

0 to 62 mph (secs): 6.1

Top Speed: 149

Engine Power - BHP: 304

Engine Power - PS: No

0 to 60 mph (secs): 0

Engine Power - KW: 224

Engine Power - RPM: 5800

Engine Torque - LBS.FT: 311

Engine Torque - NM: 422

Engine Torque - RPM: 1650

Engine Torque - MKG: 43

Test Cycles

Emissions Test Cycle: WLTP

RDE Certification Level: RDE 2

Tyres

Tyre Size Front: 235/55 R19

Tyre Size Rear: 235/55 R19

Tyre Size Spare: SPACE SAVER

Wheel Type: 19" ALLOY

Wheel Style: N

Alloys?: No

Space Saver?: No

Vehicle Dimensions

Length: 4715

Width: 1910

Wheelbase: 2875

Width (including mirrors): 2165

Height: 1630

Height (including roof rails): N

Weight and Capacities

Minimum Kerbweight: 1985

Gross Vehicle Weight: 2500

Fuel Tank Capacity (Litres): 66

Max. Towing Weight - Braked: 2500

Max. Towing Weight - Unbraked: 750

Max. Loading Weight: 515

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

Brakes

Black brake calipers

Exterior Body Features

Pearlescent paint

Front grille with chrome upper trim

Metallic paint

Matt paint

Interior Features

Garnish backlight

Packs

2nd row comfort seat pack - GV70

Comfort seat pack - GV70

Lexicon audio system pack - GV70

Sunroof pack - GV70

Nappa leather seat pack - Sport GV70

Paint - Metallic

Metallic - Savile silver

Metallic - Vik black

Metallic - Mauna red

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

Matt - Matterhorn white

Transmission

Electronic limited slip differential

Trim - Leather

Nappa leather seat pack with quilting stitching - Obsidian black with obsidian black suede headlining

Nappa leather seat pack with quilting stitching - Sevilla red/Obsidian black with obsidian black suede headlining

Nappa leather seat pack with quilting stitching - Ultramarine Blue/Obsidian black with Ultramarine Blue suede headlining

Leather - Obsidian black with Obsidian black headlining

Wheels - Alloy

21" Dark sputtering design B alloy wheels