2022 Genesis G70 challenges luxury foes

Four model years after it received more honors than its upstart manufacturer could have imagined, the Hyundai Genesis G70 is still an unheralded small luxury sedan. Sales are stagnant as the worthy upscale beauty stumbles along against its longstanding rivals.

With its makeover for 2022, the underdog is trying again. The Genesis G70 remains in its first generation but much has changed.

The sedan more than holds its own against Acura, Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Tesla competitors with its smooth driving, quick acceleration, comfort and good looks.

2022 Genesis G70: Old Is New Again

It’s been seven years since Genesis became an independent marque, but a rewind is warranted. The Hyundai Genesis debuted as the South Korean manufacturer’s luxury sedan in 2004. The stand-alone Genesis brand debuted in the United States in 2015 with the flagship G90. The smaller G80 arrived a year later, with the G70 unveiled in 2017.
The Genesis stable expanded with the sport utility vehicle models GV70 and GV80 in 2020. The lineup added G80 and GV70 electric trim options in 2021.

With its full lineup, Genesis finally qualified for the J.D. Power ranking system and it was named the country’s most dependable automotive brand in 2020.

The new model is offered in several trims, including the reviewed 3.3-liter twin-turbocharged V6 with 365 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters is the only option.

Acceleration from zero to 60 miles per hour is achieved in 4.9 seconds. Few issues are present, with gas mileage the car’s biggest downfall. The EPA estimates are 18 miles per gallon in city driving, 27 mpg on the highway.

A hefty supply of standard equipment is a strong Genesis trait. The G70 features sport suspension, Brembo brakes, 19-inch alloy wheels, dual exhaust, and a leather interior. Further upscale the Sport Advanced trim level includes a digital key system, variable exhaust valve system 19-inch alloy wheels, sunroof, Lexicon audio system, alloy pedal covers and dark chrome on the grille and side-glass trim.

2022 Genesis G70: Lots Of Standard Stuff

With the top-line Sport Prestige trim, a head-up display, Nappa interior leather, pseudo-suede headliner, limited-slip differential and electronically controlled suspension are featured. All-wheel drive is a $2,000 option on all 2022 Genesis G70 trims, grouped with a heated steering wheel. Michelin Pilot Sport 4 summer tires also are available.

While the exterior sharpness more resembles a sports car than a sedan, the interior is stylishly minimalist. But accents are added with vibrant colors and quilted upholstery. It’s a classy look. The console, steering wheel and infotainment center all have clean lines, with some pizzazz. The black interior has a splash of red trim and it’s complemented by red seat belts.

 

The only other downfall of the Genesis is subpar back seat space. It’s suitable only for small people with short legs. And if a larger driver has the front seat extended, there’s no available legroom for the rear passenger on the same side of the car.

Like other manufacturers, Genesis is following a trend. Small projection lights beam the attractive Genesis logo below the front doors for night vision assistance.

The MSRP for the G70 is $42,100. Its upscale trim with two option packages and other stand-alone added features push the price to $51,945.

Traditionalist luxury sedan buyers may not be persuaded to alter their brand loyalties. But the G70 and its siblings deserve consideration. Genesis assumed the 10-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty offer by Hyundai and Kia. No other luxury carmaker’s warranty gets close to matching what the South Korean carmaker offers.

If nothing else, the 2022 Genesis G70 does its part to dissuade the old guard from getting complacent.