With this GV70 Electrified model, luxury brand Genesis takes on full-sized Teutonic EV crossover rivals. Jonathan Crouch takes a look.

Ten Second Review

The Genesis GV70 Electrified offers a very different take on what a full-sized premium badged Executive segment crossover EV should be. Thinking of an I-PACE, a Q8 e-tron, an iX or an EQC? Factor in one of these as well.

Background

Premium brand makers are divided over whether full-sized crossover EVs should be merely electric versions of existing models or completely new designs. If you like different, you'll appreciate cars in this class like the Jaguar I-PACE, the Mercedes EQC and the Audi Q8 e-tron. BMW, in contrast, serves up an iX3 model visually much the same as the combustion X3. And it's that latter approach that Korean premium maker Genesis is followed with this GV70 Electrified. This is the only car in this class with an 800-volt electrical architecture that allows use of the ultra-fastest public chargers. And it's the only one with a clever 'Vehicle-to-Load' feature that allows you to power electrical ancillary devices from the vehicle - or even charge another EV. Plus, as with all Genesis models, this one comes with a level of customer service back-up that rivals can't approach. It all sounds intriguing.

Driving Experience

Both the fossil-fuelled GV70 powerplants are impressively quiet. But of course nothing like as silent as the third powertrain option that Genesis is offering, that for the fully electrified version of this model. The electric GV70 drives all four of its wheels, as the petrol and diesel versions do, but as with any such EV, does so rather differently, with separate motors driving each axle collectively generating a rather impressive combined output of 483bhp and 700Nm of torque. That's good enough to power the car to 62mph in 4.2s, which to give you some class perspective is over half a second quicker than a rival Mercedes EQC. Of more interest though to a likely owner is the projected driving range between charges, WLTP-rated at a fairly unremarkable 283 miles between charges of the 77.4kWh battery. Special noise-cancelling technology on the EV variant improves refinement, reducing tyre roar by using microphones and sensors to project inverted sound waves through the audio speakers. You'll also appreciate the electrified GV70's 'Smart Regenerative Braking System, which analyses your driving habits and road conditions to alter the level of energy recuperation; or you can maximise that manually and select a 'one-pedal'-style driving mode that'll see you hardly ever having to use the brake, so abrupt is off-throttle deceleration. This EV model also gets an e-Terrain driving mode to handle slippery surfaces.

Design and Build

The main visual difference with this GV70 Electrified model over its combustion stablemates is the fact that this model's usual signature 'Crest Grille' has evolved into an aerodynamic appendage that features an inverted G-Matrix pattern and incorporates a hidden electric charging port. Chief Stylist Luc Donckerwolke and his team call this 'a minimalist yet sophisticated look'. Inside, the EV theme is emboldened by a bright 'Glacier White' interior that looks striking but is unlikely to prove very practical. A variety of eco-friendly materials have been used to furnish it and each features a high quality finish, completing a design that embodies Genesis' vision for a sustainable luxury from the inside out. Up front, as in an ordinary GV70, 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. It's a little different at the back with this EV model. The central tunnel has been lowered to make up for the bulkiness of the powertrain, creating a level of second row space equivalent to that of a combustion GV70. The boot is of a comparable size too; at 503-litres, it's down just a little on the 542-litres you'd get in a conventional GV70, but in this case, you also get an extra 22-litres of 'frunk' capacity under the bonnet.

Market and Model

Genesis won't launch any further combustion cars after 2025 and will only sell EVs from 2030. With that in mind, you'd be surprised if demand for this full-electric GV70 variant didn't grow considerably over its lifetime. Even at pricing pitched at around £65,000 for the single 'Sport' trim level available. Still, it comes much better equipped than rivals for that. As standard, the Electrified GV70 is generously equipped, including advanced technology such as next-generation safety systems, a widescreen 14.5-inch infotainment display, an E-Terrain mode for extra driver confidence in all conditions and Electronically Controlled Suspension with a 'Road Preview' system. Luxury and tranquility come to the fore in the beautifully crafted interior, with powered leather seats, LED mood lighting and the extensive use of high grade materials. Furthermore, a range of carefully chosen option packages allow for further personalisation, each with a theme of technology, luxury or versatility. Included among these extras are even more advanced driver aids, including the semi-autonomous Highway Driving Assistant II (HDA II) and Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA). Also available are the supremely supportive Ergo Motion seats with massage function and the high fidelity Lexicon sound system with the cutting edge Active Noise Control-Road (ANC-R) system.

Cost of Ownership

As we said in our 'Driving' section, the car gets twin electric motors powered by a 77.4kWh battery which, when fully charged, delivers a rather unremarkable 283 mile WLTP-rated driving range. As with all EVs from the Hyundai Motor Group, the powertrain here is 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. A V2L feature is available to supply up to 3.6 kW of power from the battery pack to charge ancillary devices - say a drone or an electric scooter for instance; or even another EV. Like every Genesis, this one will come covered by a generous 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. Try asking for any of that to be included in the price from a rival premium brand model. 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

The challenge for Genesis is going to be getting segment customers to register that this GV70 Electrified model even exists. If it can do so and get them behind the wheel, there's scope for conquest business here for the brand. This car can, after all, offer you right now the 800-volt ultra-rapid charging tech and 'Vehicle-to-Load' EV technology that won't appear in rivals until their next generation. It can also undercut them on price and give you more equipment. The smaller GV60 gave this brand's EV dreams some credence. And that gets underlined here.

Body Glass

Rain sensor

Rear wash/wipe

Laminated front side glass

Automatic window defogger

Windshield acoustic film

Rear side backlight glass

Rear side and backlite privacy glass

Brakes

Electronic parking brake with auto hold

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

19" rear brake ventilated disc

Smart regenerative braking

Front brake ventilated disc 360mm

Chassis/Suspension

Preview electronically controlled suspension

eTerrain mode

Boost mode

Communication

E-call

Bluetooth connection with voice recognition

Driver Aids

Power assisted steering

Lane Following Assist (LFA)

Intelligent speed limit assist (ISLA)

Blind spot collision avoidance assist rear (BCA-R)

Drive mode select

Manual speed limit assist (MSLA)

Lighting backup guidelines

Front and rear parking sensors with button

Lane keeping assist (LKA)

SCC smart cruise control with stop and start

Driver Convenience

Wireless phone charger

Electric rear tailgate opening and height adjustable

Driving Mirrors

Outside electrical folding rear mirror

Outside electrical adjustment and heated rear mirror

Electrochromic inside rear view mirror

Embellishment Trims

Leatherette dashboard

Engine

Battery saver function

Battery heating system

Battery HV extend

Entertainment

Steering wheel audio remote control

Tweeter + external AMP and front centre speaker

Front door speakers

Rear door low speakers

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

2 port USB front charger console

2 USB rear

Exterior Body Features

Body coloured bumpers

Front grille with chrome upper trim

Outside door handles chrome coating

Rear side wing doors

Exterior Lights

Automatic headlights with dusk sensor

LED daytime running lights

LED rear combination lamps

LED rear stop lamp

LED rear fog lamps

Puddle lamps with logo

Heating/Cooling/Ventilation

Manual rear air conditioning

Heat pump

Console ventilation duct

Front air condition with dual zone adjustment

Standard air filter

Interior Features

Leather steering wheel

Rear luggage cover

Drink holder at centre armrest

Power tilt telescopic steering wheel with memory seat

Console storage box

Leatherette console box

Power outlet for trunk

Power outlet for rear (lower centre console)

Finger print reader authentication

Standard a/b/c pillars

Standard headlining

Lever type paddle shifter

Ipedal

Leather/Wool Woven upholstery

Interior Lights

Ambient lighting

Mood lighting garnish

Packs

Innovation Pack - GV70 EV

Trailer pack - GV70

Convenience pack - GV70 EV

Safety

Tyre pressure monitoring system

3x3 point rear seat belts

Driver knee airbag

Front center side airbags

Front thorax and pelvis + curtain airbags

Driver and passenger airbag

ISOFIX rear child anchor with upper and lower

Rear seat alert without sensors

Forward collision avoidance system (car/pedestrian/bicycle)

Seats

Rear headrests

2 way electric height adjustable driver's seat

3 seat bench in 2nd row

Memory function for driver seat

4 way electric driver lumbar support

60:40 split back folding rear seats

Tilt/up and down headrest adjustment

2nd row heating floor output

Single front passenger seat

2 way electric height adjust front passenger seat

2 way electric cushion tilt up for driver and passenger

4 way manual headrest adjust for front seats

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

Security

Immobiliser

Smart key/button start

Central door lock driver's and passenger's control

Manual child lock + Deadlock + Cat 1 alarm

Vanity Mirrors

Driver and passenger standard sunvisor

Vehicle Charging

400V/800V Charging Technology

Domestic cable (AC) ICCB (In cable control box) Type 2 Mode to Type G

Public charging cable (AC) Type 2

Wheels

Michelin tyres

Summer tyres pilot sport 4

Wheels - Alloy

19" Front machined alloy wheels

Wheels - Spare

Temporary mobility kit (TMK)

Electric Vehicle Data

Battery Charging Scenario 1 - Charge Time (Mins): 2060

Battery Charging Scenario 1 - Power Supply - kW: 2.7

Battery Charging Scenario 1 - Percentage Change: 10-100

Battery Charging Scenario 2 - Charge Time (Mins): 440

Battery Charging Scenario 2 - Power Supply - kW: 11

Battery Charging Scenario 2 - Percentage Change: 10-100

Battery Charging Scenario 3 - Charge Time (Mins): 73

Battery Charging Scenario 3 - Power Supply - kW: 50

Battery Charging Scenario 3 - Percentage Change: 10-80

Battery Charging Scenario 4 - Charge Time (Mins): 18

Battery Charging Scenario 4 - Power Supply - kW: 350

Battery Charging Scenario 4 - Percentage Change: 10-80

Coupler/Connector Type: CCS Type 2

Standard manufacturers Battery warranty - Years: 8

Standard manufacturers Battery warranty - Mileage: 120000

Battery Capacity in kWh: 77.4

Battery Leased: 0

Battery Type: Lithium-ion

WLTP - Pure Electric Range (km) - City: 590

WLTP - Pure Electric Range (km) - Comb: 455

WLTP - EC (kWh/100km) - City: 14.8

WLTP - EC (kWh/100km) - Comb: 19.2

WLTP - EC (miles/kWh) - City: 4.2

WLTP - EC (miles/kWh) - Comb: 3.2

WLTP - Pure Electric Range (miles) - City: 367

WLTP - Pure Electric Range (miles) - Comb: 283

Battery Capacity % guaranteed under warranty: 70

Charging Port Location: Front

Usable Battery Capacity: N

Maximum Charging Rate - kW: 350

Emissions - ICE

CO2 (g/km): 0

Standard Euro Emissions: N

Noise Level dB(A): 69

CO: N

HC: N

NOx: N

HC+NOx: N

Particles: N

Engine and Drive Train

Cylinders - Bore (mm): N

Cylinders - Stroke (mm): N

CC: 1

Cylinders: N

Cylinder Layout: N

Number of Valves: N

Camshaft: N

Fuel Delivery: N

Catalytic Convertor: N

Engine Layout: N

Compression Ratio: N

Transmission: AUTO

Gears: 1 SPEED

Engine Code: N

Fuel Consumption - ICE

EC Directive 1999/100/EC Applies: N

EC Urban (mpg): N

EC Extra Urban (mpg): N

EC Combined (mpg): N

General

Coin Series: Sport [Inn/Conven]

Coin Description: N

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: 50D

Service Interval Mileage: 20000

Service Interval Frequency - Months: 24

Timing Belt Interval Mileage: N

Timing Belt Interval Frequency - Months: N

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: 490

Badge Engine CC: 0

Vehicle Homologation Class: M1

Generation Mark: 1

Alternative Fuel Qualifying: No

Performance

0 to 62 mph (secs): 4.2

Top Speed: 146

Engine Power - BHP: 490

Engine Power - PS: No

0 to 60 mph (secs): 0

Engine Power - KW: 360

Engine Torque - LBS.FT: 516

Engine Torque - NM: 700

Engine Torque - MKG: 71.4

Test Cycles

Emissions Test Cycle: WLTP

RDE Certification Level: N/A

Tyres

Tyre Size Front: 235/55 R19

Tyre Size Rear: 235/55 R19

Tyre Size Spare: TYRE REPAIR KIT

Wheel Type: 19" 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: 2310

Gross Vehicle Weight: 2845

Fuel Tank Capacity (Litres): N

Max. Towing Weight - Braked: 1800

Max. Towing Weight - Unbraked: 750

Max. Loading Weight: 535

Luggage Capacity (Seats Up): 503

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

Matt paint

Metallic paint

Paint - Metallic

Metallic - Savile silver

Metallic - Vik black

Metallic - Mauna red

Metallic - Barossa burgundy

Metallic - Storr green

Metallic - Atacama copper

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 - Atacama copper

Matt - Barossa burgundy

Matt - Matterhorn white

Trim - Part Leather

Leather/Wool Woven - Obsidian black with white piping and Vanilla Beige headlining

Leather/Wool Woven - Pine grove and ocean waves with white piping and Vanilla Beige headlining

Leather/Wool Woven - Glacier white with white piping and ocean waves headlining