2024 Genesis G70

As the most affordable Genesis vehicle in the lineup, the G70 has a lot to offer for its $41,500 starting price. The G70 is a five-passenger, four door sport sedan that was first introduced for 2019. Rolling into 2024, the G70 is enhanced with a new 2.5T powertrain, Brembo braking system, and updated interior details.  It is available with your choice of two powertrains, RWD or AWD, and an optional Sport Prestige package. Standard is the new 2.5L turbocharged inline four-cylinder that produces 300 horsepower and also available is a 3.3L twin-turbocharged V6  that pushes out 368 horsepower. Pricing starts at $41,500 for the RWD 2.5T, $43,600 for the AWD 2.5T, $49,950 for the RWD 3.3T, and $52,050 for the AWD 3.3T. It's among the most competitively priced in the class amongst vehicles like the Alfa Romeo Giulia, Audi A4, BMW 3-Series, Lexus IS, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and Volvo S60. I spent a week in a G70 3.3T Sport Prestige that checked in at $57,920. As a car enthusiast, cars in this segment have always been a big draw to me and now having driven the G70 for the first time, it's one of my favorites. Here's what stands out...

New Standard Powertrain (+)
The new standard 2.5L turbocharged engine produces 300 HP and 311 lb.-ft of maximum torque. This is an increase of more than 48 HP over the previous 2.0L turbocharged engine, giving G70 the most standard power in its class. Genesis has also equipped all G70 models with a standard 8-speed automatic transmission and high-performance Brembo brakes to ensure strong braking performance. The 2.5T is available with either RWD or AWD and includes five distinct drive modes that automatically adjust the engine, suspension, and steering settings for optimal driving conditions. This base option offers a refined and powerful driving experience for a reasonable price.

Performance (+)
I spent my time in the more powerful AWD 3.3T G70 that delivers 368 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque courtesy of a twin-turbocharged 3.3L V6. While it doesn't quite match my other favorite in this segment (the V8-powered Lexus IS 500), the G70 was quite impressive. It had a near perfect blend of luxury refinement and performance qualities. It was powerful enough to send it from 0-60 MPH in around 4.6 seconds (approximately a second faster than the 2.5T). The V6 is buttery smooth as it shifts through its 8-speed transmission. It's engaging and connected to the pavement with direct steering. It delivers a quiet and smooth ride as well, with a subtle exhaust groan when you press hard on the pedal. All models have been upgraded with new Brembo brakes that improve the one area many critiqued the G70 on.  It feels sophisticated and well-poised for an all-around positive driving experience.

The G70 comes with five distinct drive modes that adjust the engine power, suspension and steering settings to the mode. Modes include comfort, eco, smart, sport, sport+, and custom. Modes can be easily selected via a dial in the center console.

Fuel Economy (+/-)
When it arrived with a full 15.8-gallon tank, the G70 offered a driving range of around 335 miles. EPA estimates are 17/26/20 MPG city/highway/combined on the 3.3T. After a week of primarily suburban driving, I averaged 17 MPG.  The 2.5T is slightly more efficient with ratings of 21 MPG city and 29 MPG on the highway. These estimates are average for the class.

Exterior Style (+)
The G70 received a facelift for the 2022 model year that has generally carried on since. For 2024, a new emblem is engraved with a Guilloche pattern (intricately detailed) and two new exterior colors are added that include Vatna Gray and Kawah Blue. The proportions on this sporty luxury sedan are spot on with minimal overhangs, a wide stance, and sleek roofline. Up front the split two-line LED lighting carries on as a Genesis signature along with the large shield grille while emblem sits atop the font fascia. It has a very Bentley-esque appearance from the front which is a good thing. The side profile is highlighted by a strong character line that runs across the top of the doors, trim accent in the lower front fender, a softly curved roofline, and detailing from the back that wraps around. The split LED lighting design continues in the back with GENESIS spelled across the trunk, dual oval exhausts, and reverse lights at the bottom of the bumper. The rear trunk also curves up for the illusion of a built-in spoiler.  There are eleven colors available and either 19" machined dark gray wheels on the non-sport models or 19" dark sputtering wheels on sport models.  Overall, I think the G70's design is appealing and non-offensive. It's classy, yet sporty and stands out in the most unassuming way.

Interior (+)
Once again, Genesis continues to impress with a serene, high-quality interior. Even on its most affordable vehicle, the G70 packs a lot of luxury. My test model was striking with its two-tone interior of Obsidian Black and Sevilla Red. The shade of red really popped in this car against black and the Vatna Gray exterior. Drivers will face an 8" HD color digital cluster and sitting atop the dash is a 10.25" infotainment display. It features a mix of materials with soft touch leather, silver accents, and contrast stitching throughout. A traditional electronic gear selector sits in the center console with a detailed knob in front of it to select drive modes. It's functional and elegant with attention to detail throughout. A wireless device charging tray and two cup holders are all within reach.

New features for 2024 include a touch-type climate control display and frameless rear-view mirror. Functional designs and details have been added to features like the multi-function switches, door and console garnish patterns, air vents, cup holders, and key FOB. The range of interior color selections has also expanded by adding two new two-tone options: Obsidian Black/Fog Gray and Obsidian Black/Vanilla Beige. Other luxury touches include diamond patterned leather and available microfiber suede headliner and pillar

Technology (+)
Outside of the aforementioned wireless charging pad in the center of the console, technology highlights include the Genesis digital key and Lexicon premium audio. The digital key allows owners to use their mobile device to unlock doors, start the engine, release the trunk, and more. Also available is an Apple CarKey via iOS that allows storage of your "key" in your Apple Wallet and the ability to share it with others. The premium audio system includes 15 speakers and a subwoofer beneath each front seat to deliver a full 3D sound experience that sounds amazing. The 10.25" infotainment display integrates with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but a cord is required. The touchscreen is easy to navigate, intuitive to operate, and responds quickly to touch. Also available is a heated steering wheel and customizable head-up display.

Seating (+)
With seating for five, the G70 offers comfortable and supportive seats all around. The available 16-way adjustable seating allows the driver seat to conform to all body types for optimal visibility and comfort. I found the front seats to be supportive with plenty of head, leg, and shoulder room. Rear seats were a bit more snug, especially with all three of my kids in back. Rear headroom is also tighter with its lower roofline. Synthetic leather and heated and power-adjustable front seats are standard, while genuine Nappa Leather with ventilated seats is also available. The quilted diamond patterned leather looks and feels exquisite.

Cargo (-)
The G70 comes standard with a hands-free power trunk lid that reveals a minimal 10.5 cubic feet of space. The rear seatbacks do fold down for access to the back seats, but they don't fold completely flat.  Even among competitors in the class, the G70's cargo capacity is on the smaller side.

Safety (+)
The G70 comes standard with a healthy list of advanced safety features that include:

* Forward collision-avoidance assist
* Lane keep assist
* Lane follow assist
* Blind spot collision avoidance assist
* Rear cross-traffic avoidance
* Highway driving assist
* Smart cruise control with stop & go
* Driver attention warning
* Rearview camera with dynamic guidelines
* Safe exit assist

One feature that stood out to me is the blind-spot view monitor which displays a live camera image in the digital cluster when the turn signal is activated. I have this feature in our Telluride and find it very useful. Also worth noting is the surround view camera system which provides a clear view all around the car at the touch of a button.

Final Statement
Rumors are swirling that the G70 may be on its way out as consumers continue to avoid sedans, which is a shame. This is an impressive car that holds its own and excels compared to some longtime contenders in the class. It performs extremely well with raw power and precision. The design inside and out pays close attention to detail while still being functional. It's loaded with standard features and priced well for the class. If you're in the market for a compact luxury sedan, be sure to check this one out while you can. It's now one of my favorites of the year.

First Impression Summary:

Test Vehicle:  2024 Genesis G70 AWD 3.3T
Powertrain: 3.3L Twin Turbo V6
Exterior Color: Vatna Gray
Interior Color: Obsidian Black / Sevilla Red
Options: Sport Prestige Package ($4,400), All-Season Mats ($220)
AMSRP as tested: $57,920 (With Delivery/Destination)

Pros: Powertrain options and power, overall design,  interior quality, intuitive technology, standard safety
Cons: Tight back seats, limited cargo capacity, low fuel economy