2022 Genesis G70 3.3T Sport: The Brand’s Entry-Level Luxury Sedan

Highlights: Genesis was derived from both Hyundai and Kia. The vehicle shares a platform with Kia's Stinger.

Test Vehicle's MSRP: $51,945 (Base G 70 2.5: $38,570)

Seating Capacity: 5 (a tight fit)

Standard Safety Features:  airbags; ABS; a vehicle stability system; a hill-start assist control system; a forward collision assist system; a lane following assist system; a lane keep assist system; an electronic blind spot system; a rear cross traffic avoidance system; a high beam assist system; a driver warning attention system; and a tire pressure monitoring system

Standard Equipment (2.0-liter turbocharged): 18-inch wheels; an 8-speed automatic transmission; a variety of driving modes; a radar-activated cruise control with a stop-and-go system; heated outside mirrors with signal indicators; a hands free opening trunk; a keyless ignition system; power front seats; leather-like seats; heated front seats; leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob; an electric parking brake; a dual automatic temperature control system rear seat center armrest with cup holders; a navigation system; and a 10-inch infotainment system

Standard Equipment (3.3-liter Sport Prestige): 3.3-liter, 365-horsepower; 19-inch wheels; a dual exhaust system; a sport tuned suspension; leather seats; a power tilt/telescopic steering wheel; power folding mirrors; aluminum trim; power driver seat; passenger 4-way lumbar; AWD system; a heated steering wheel

Options: parking distance warning; alloy pedals; ventilated front seats; a 15-speaker Lexicon audio system; wireless device charging; a heads up display (HUD) system; a 360-degree camera; Nappa leather seats; microfiber suede headliner; Brembro braking system; limited- slip differential; and a heated steering wheel

Other Trim Levels:

2.0 AWD

2.0 Prestige Package

Standard Audio On Test Vehicle: AM/FM/HD with SiriusXM

Bluetooth Connectivity: Standard

USB Connectivity: Standard

Apple/Android Connectivity: Standard

Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles

Powertrain Warranty: 10 years or 100,000 miles

Standard Engine/Horsepower: 2.0-liter Turbo, 4-cylinder engine/252-hp

Recommended Fuel: Premium

Standard Fuel Mileage: 20-city/28-hwy

What’s New: After the G70 joined the line up in 2019, the luxury brand’s entry-level sedan has received a much-welcomed mid-cycle update.

Pros:

Rear-wheel drive

Sporty exterior design with matted-like, sophisticated racing grille

A powerful 3.3 engine

Host of standard features, including a navigation system

A number of safety driving aids are standard

One of the best new car warranties in the segment

Easy-to-use new 10-inch infotainment screen

A lower base starting price than all of the non domestic competitors

Panoramic roof available

19-inch wheel availability

Wireless charging available

Variety of driving modes

Dual exhaust tailpipes

Upscale quilted Nappa leather seating area

A Heads Up Display (HUD) system available

Bembro brakes available

Nimble

A peppy 6-cylinder engine

But: 

Limited legroom in the second row

No electrification like some of its segment competitors

Verdict:  The driver-oriented G70 is the Korean luxury brand’s answer to BMW 3-Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. The sporty sedan grille now mirrors that of its other siblings. And this Genesis has traded-in its previous borrowed Hyundai infotainment screen for an-all new system -- that's worthy of this luxury brand.

The sporty sedan, with its luxurious touches, can be outfitted with two powertrains: a 2.0-liter turbo and a 3.3-liter turbo. The G70 is also available in a variety of trims too.

Moreover, being that Genesis was birth from the mainstream brand, Hyundai, the Korean luxury brand also offers one of the best warranties in the luxury segment. And besides the domestic built Cadillac’s CT4, the G70 is the lowest priced vehicle amongst all of its import competitors. Moreover, the vehicle was outfitted with a high level of equipment too, including a standard navigation system. Conversely, in all of its competitors such a feature is considered optional.

Furthermore, over the past few years the Genesis brand has ranked high in quality. While it's still a relatively new brand, the G70 is worth considering for those looking for something different than the established legacy brands.

Competition:  Audi A4; BMW 3-Series; Cadillac CT4; Lexus IS; and Mercedes-Benz C-Class