2022 Genesis G70 - Review by Larry Nutson

Athletic and elegant

By Larry Nutson
Executive Editor and Bureau Chief
Chicago Bureau
The Auto Channel

Genesis, the premium brand of Hyundai, has been on the U.S. auto scene for about five years now, having first appeared for 2016. Genesis has gradually expanded its product line. They now offer three sedans and two utility vehicles. Forecast to come are a coupe, a smaller utility vehicle, as well as battery electric offering.

Overall sales have begun to climb with the expansion of the model range. Year-to-date sales for 2021 are around 24,000 after seven months. This is higher than any of the previous year’s total annual sales.

Genesis' G70 compact luxury sedan has received a significant update for 2022. Exterior design is refreshed with new front and rear styling featuring a new larger grille and the Genesis-signature twin lines of quad LED lamps in the front and rear. A new instrument panel with a larger 10.25-inch infotainment screen and wider use of premium materials are featured in the cabin.

The G70 has a complete suite of advanced driver-assist safety (ADAS) features. New is a highway driver-assist system that combines lane centering and adaptive cruise control for more relaxed highway cruising.

With seating for five, the 2022 G70 is offered in 2.0T and 3.3T models. The 2.0T is powered by a 252-hp turbocharged 2.0-L I4 that develops 260 lb.-ft. of torque. The 3.3T has a 365-hp turbocharged 3.3-L V6 with a torque rating of 376 lb.-ft. An eight-speed automatic transmission is coupled to both engines. Rear-wheel drive (RWD) is standard with all-wheel drive (AWD) an option for those who want or need enhanced traction in frequent wet or snow conditions.

EPA fuel economy ratings for the 2.2T RWD are 21 city mpg and 31 highway mpg. AWD versions are rated at 20 mpg and 28 mpg respectively. The 3.3T with RWD is rated by the EPA at 18 city mpg and 27 highway mpg. Correspondingly, AWD models of the 3.3T are rated 17 city mpg and 25 highway mpg.

Of note, previous versions of the G70 offered a manual transmission but that has now been discontinued. The reason, common among many brands, is inadequate demand in the marketplace.

The G70 2.0T is offered in Standard and Prestige trims, both in RWD or AWD, with pricing starting at $37,525. The 3.3T is offered in Standard, Sport Advanced and Sport Prestige, again in either RWD or AWD, with prices starting at $42,100. AWD adds $2,100 and shipping is $1,045.

A limited production 3.3T Launch Edition featuring white or gray matte-finish paint, unique multi-spoke 19-inch wheels and an exclusive black and red leather interior with an MSRP of $52,500 was also offered when the new G70 arrived earlier in the year.

For my drive experience I drove a rear-drive 3.3T Sport Prestige with a bottom line MSRP of $51,445. The 3.3T gets 19-inch alloy wheels, sport suspension, performance brakes and leather seating compared to the 2.0T. There’s also a number of premium comfort and convenience features that are added.

The Sport Prestige trim of my evaluation 3.3T includes two option packages. A Sport Advanced package ($4,300) adds unique 19-inch sport alloy wheels, sport exhaust system, dark chrome grille and window surround trim, aluminum pedal trim, sunroof, ventilated front seats, power driver seat bolster and cushion extender, digital key technology, wireless device charging and Lexicon 15-speaker premium sound system.

Additionally, a Sport Prestige package ($4,000) adds head-up display, 360-degree surround view monitor, Nappa leather seating, suede headliner, Brembo brakes, limited slip differential, electronically controlled suspension and heated steering wheel.

Overall, the G70 especially with 365-hp is a lot of fun to drive. The sound from the sport exhaust was always tempting me to step deep into the throttle. And there’s plenty of torques that delivers quick acceleration. Handling is well balanced and confident and yet overall suspension tuning along with the tire combination provides for a comfortable ride.

At a touch under 185 inches long the G70 makes for a great city/urban car where maneuvering in tight spaces is often the challenge. The front cabin is quite pleasurable for two. Ergonomics, sight lines, control and switch access are all to like. The rear seat is a bit tight for full-grown adults. The young ones will be fine.

The G70 already had the creds as a premium sport sedan. Now with the updates for 2022 it’s even better. The choice of which engine and if you need all-wheel drive is up to how you like to drive as well as the terrain and climate you live in, along with how much of a fun factor you want.

Pay a visit to www.genesis.com for more facts and details. Note that all Genesis vehicles include Service Valet with complimentary scheduled maintenance and at-home pick-up for 3 years / 60,000 miles

Having won numerous accolades including 2019 North American Car of the Year, the Genesis G70 is an athletic and elegant sport sedan. Its exterior is attractive and well designed. The cockpit is driver-oriented with pleasing premium materials. Although a new brand, so to speak, Genesis is right up there with long-established premium sport sedan makers.

Happy motoring!