Here’s yet another bold SUV coming from the Korean luxury brand.
After the release of the G-series sedans, Genesis is finally making progress in the SUV market with the GV-series’ launch. The first SUV to come out from Genesis’ kitchen was the GV80, a mid-size luxury SUV that has posed a serious threat to established rivals. Now Genesis unveiled its next SUV, the 2022 GV70, an entry-level crossover aimed to compete against the BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC, and Audi Q5.
The GV70 looks like a downsized version of the GV80, having the same crest grille and split LED headlights upfront. The rear integrated roof spoiler, the taillights, and the badging also look the same. However, three new design elements distinguish the entry-level Genesis from the GV80.
First are the sloping roof and large triangular rear quarter windows, making it look unlike every other crossover in the class. The second is the exhaust pipe assembly; unlike the GV80’s horizontal chrome tips, the GV70 has a vertical exhaust tip assembly bearing the same shape. Finally, the GV70’s body has many more curves and cuts than the GV80, which is made evident by the more muscular rear fenders. Furthermore, when equipped with the optional Sport Package, the GV70 adds a dark chrome grille, black accents, and an aggressive-looking front bumper.
On the inside, the GV70 oozes with high-quality materials and a luxuriously restrained dashboard design. The steering wheel still remains the unusually shaped two-spoked model, which people either hate or love. Genesis says that the interior design is “inspired by the aerodynamic sections of aircraft wings.” Luckily, if that unusual steering wheel ain’t your cup of tea, the Sport Package comes with a sportier looking steering wheel and tasteful use of carbon fiber accents.
From the images, we can notice the same large horizontal infotainment display as used in the GV80. There is also a long strip of chrome running across the dashboard’s length and continuing on to the doors, looking like one continuous piece. The buttons and knobs are expected to be of the same quality as in the GV80.
As in all Genesis models, the GV70 is no stranger to the use of high-tech gizmos. Safety tech features include driver assistance system, forward and blind-spot collision avoidance systems, and the semi-autonomous Highway Driving Assist II system using adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and a new lane-change assist.
The GV70 will also feature Genesis’ groundbreaking Advanced Rear Occupant Alert System. This system uses radar sensors, better than ultrasonic sensors, with the sensitivity turned up so high that it can detect “small respiratory movements,” thus letting the driver know if a sleeping child or infant is in the seat.
Although Genesis has not revealed much about the powertrain, the GV70 is expected to feature two engines — a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder putting out 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque and a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 churning out 375 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque.
In Canada, the GV70 will be offered with an all-wheel-drive powertrain, while in the USA, there will also be a rear-wheel-drive option. Power is expected to be sent via an 8-speed automatic transmission, and the driver can choose between 4 driving modes — Eco, Comfort, Custom, and Sport. The Sport Package adds another “Sport Plus” mode.
No details have been given regarding the 2022 GV70’s pricing, which is set to launch next year, so the wait continues.
