2026 GENESIS GV70

 

 

 

Test Vehicle: 2026 Genesis GV70 3.5 T Sport Prestige

Powertrain: 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6

Exterior Color: Ceres Blue

Interior Color: Ultramarine

Options: Paint ($650), NFC Key card ($30)

MSRP as Tested: $72,225 (with freight & handling)

 

Pros: Engaging drive, refined cabin space, contemporary styling with good proportions 

Cons: Average fuel economy, cargo space limitations, blind spots

 

The Genesis GV70 is a compact 5-passenger, luxury crossover that first debuted for 2021 as a gasoline only model. The all-electric version was revealed a year later with the same general design, but different power source. Refreshed for 2026, the GV70 gets a revised front grille and bumper, new wheel designs, a redesigned center console, and a new 27” OLED display spanning the dashboard. Earlier this year, the GV70 was awarded the Midwest Automotive Media Association’s Favorite Luxury Vehicle of the Year voted on by media members of the organization. 

 

The gas-powered GV70 is available with two powertrains that include the standard 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque (2.5T).  Also available is a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 with 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque (3.5T). The Electrified GV70 comes with a 320kW Dual Motor (Front: 160 kW/Rear: 160 kW) that delivers 429 horsepower with 516 lb.ft. of torque and has an estimated EPA driving range of 263 miles. All models now come standard with AWD. 

 

Prices start at $48,985 for the 2.5T AWD and climb to a starting price of $71,095 for the 3.5T Sport Prestige. Comparatively, the electrified GV70 starts at $64,380. Competition includes models such as the BMW X3, Audi Q5, Mercedes-Benz GLC, Lexus NX, Acura RDX and Volvo XC60. I spent a week in a top end 3.5T Sport Prestige model that checked in at $72,225 and here’s what stood out:

 

Exterior Style:

The refreshed GV70 is a subtle change, but does keep it fresh and refined. Up front, the extra large crest grille has been updated with sharpened edges and is slightly larger. Revised two-Line LED headlamps now include cube-style elements with a more futuristic light signature. Also updated is the front bumper which now has larger side intakes and a revised skid plate styling.  Proportions are well-balanced with a long wheel-base and wide stance. The side profile is smooth with soft edges and a sporty arch to the back c-pillar. The rear side windows are slim wedges that impact visibility, but look sporty. Around back, the two-line LED lights carry on across a minimalist styled rear hatch, license plate in the bumper, and Genesis spelled out across the hatch. 

My test vehicle came in Ceres Blue that had such a high-quality finish that looks and feels rich. Genesis uses a proprietary paint that enhances the already clean design of its vehicles. The GV70 is available in nine different colors, all very deep, rich looking. 

 

Both models come with new directional alloy wheels that are highly detailed and stylized. They counter the smooth design of the car with edgy razor-like styling. They come wrapped in 265/45R20 Michelin Primacy Tour AS tires that handle the pavement nicely.  There are both new 19” and 21” designs that incorporate dark metallic finishes and even more intricate spoke patterns.

 

Power & Performance:

All GV70 models come with one of two powertrains. Standard is the 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that pushed out 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque (2.5T).  Also available is a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 with 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque (3.5T).  When properly equipped, the GV70 can tow up to 3,500 pounds, which is average for the class. Having spent time in the 3.5T, it is quick propelling  from 0-60 in just 5 seconds.  It’s mated to an 8-speed automatic and comes standard with AWD. It has strong midrange acceleration with effortless highway passing, making this a great cruiser.  It is effortless and refined around town and on the highway. It’s easy to merge in traffic with responsive steering and feels well-grounded while easy to maneuver. The standard adaptive suspension is tuned well to scan road surfaces, minimize body roll, and smoothly slide over all kinds of pavement. 

 

The GV70 also comes with different driving modes that include Eco, Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and a custom MY mode. New for 2026 is a Terrain mode that features sub-modes for Snow, Mud, and Sand. These adjust AWD torque distribution, transmission behavior, braking, and traction systems to maximize grip on loose or slippery surfaces. Each of these modes will  vary the performance based on road conditions.  Suspension, AWD functioning, steering, handling, and torque distribution are all adjusted. Note that operating in Sport+ mode will be the most engaging, fun to drive.

 

The 3.5T V6 makes the GV70 feel like a junior luxury performance SUV that is powerful, smooth, and confidence-inspiring rather than wild or dramatic. It is well composed, remaining grounded through turns with minimal body roll. Steering is responsive and well-balanced. It’s not too light and feels very solid on twisting roads. Overall, the GV70 feels like you’re driving on clouds as it absorbs road imperfections and provides a very quiet interior.  

 

Fuel Economy:

The 2026 GV70 2.5T gets an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway (20/26 mpg with the optional 21-inch wheels), while the GV70 3.5T returns a best of 18/25 mpg city/highway. That's mediocre fuel economy for a luxury compact SUV. Several rivals get better estimates thanks to the use of mild-hybrid systems.

 

Interior Vibe:

Hopping inside, you’ll find a clean, elegant interior. Materials are high-quality, soft touch, and put together well. Behind the steering wheel is new 27-inch panoramic display that is much more accommodating than the previous set up.  Separating the dash is a horizontal trim that embeds the climate vents and stretches to the doors creating a wide look.  A pod of controls sits lower for navigation, climate, and setup screens. Two small cup holders, a dial gear-selector and a dial infotainment control are all part of the center console. The quality of assembly is all impressive, even the steering wheel exudes luxury with soft-touch leather, brushed silver accents and good gripping points.  One minor complaint is that the jog dial for infotainment controls and gear selection are immediately next to each other and the same size. While the finishes are differentiated, it’s easy to mistake one for the other.  Other materials include real aluminum, wood, or carbon-look trim depending on trim. It is also available with a rich color palettes (including bold two-tone interiors) and a distinctive elliptical design theme carried throughout. 

 

The seats are comfortable with ample head, leg, and shoulder room up front. The power seats are easily adjustable, including extension in the front so that you can find a comfortable seating position for drivers of all sizes. Standard equipment includes leather upholstery, a power-telescoping steering wheel and power-adjustable, heated and ventilated front seats. Options include a quilted Nappa leather upholstery, a synthetic leather-wrapped upper instrument panel, a suede headliner, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel and rear side-window sunshades.  Rear seat space is reasonable, but may feel tight for larger adults.  Look up and you’re treated to a full panoramic glass roof with an opening sunroof. It provides both fresh air and daylight for a well-lit cabin. There are some blind spots due to the sloping rear roof and small rear window. Thankfully the GV70 is equipped with a 360-degree camera to help with visibility. Bottom line: the GV70’s cabin feels more like a downsized luxury flagship than a typical compact SUV and remains one of the strongest reasons to choose it over rivals.

 

Technology:

Behind the steering wheel it comes standard with a new 27-inch panoramic display. The left side features a digital gauge cluster, while the right contains a touch-screen infotainment system. The system is touch/swipe capable or can be controlled via the jog dial in the center console.  It does integrate with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto wirelessly now, eliminating the cord needed in prior model years. There is a standard wireless phone charger hidden within the center console. Other available features include  a head up display that projects key information onto the windshield clearly, digital smartphone key access, voice controls, and over-the-air updates.  Overall, the system is intuitive and more refined than earlier generations.  

 

Standard is an eight-speaker stereo system, but also part of the Prestige Package is a 15-speaker Lexicon premium sound system. Other tech features include ambient lighting, tri-zone climate controls, Genesis digital key, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Navigation is also standard with cloud-based platform optimize routing, voice recognition and over-the-air updates

 

Smart Park:

A bonus feature is the remote smart park assist in which you can start and move the GV70 without sitting inside. It operates just like Hyundai's system and is a neat trick that is quite easy to use. While standing near the vehicle, you can start it up via the remote and once activated, you can control the car at the touch of a button by moving it forward or back as if it was a remote-control car. The feature is very user friendly and safe. Releasing the button immediately stops the GV70 or it will stop itself if it detects an object or person.

 

Cargo Capacity:

The GV70 has 28.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second-row seats and 56.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. Those figures are good for a mid-size crossover and it offers a low load floor making it easy to pack and unload.  It comes standard with a hands-free power liftgate and below floor storage. The hatch opening is wide and easy to access with levers on either side to fold the back seats down flat. Rivals like the BMW X3 and Volvo XC60 offer even more cargo space.

 

Safety:

The GV70 comes standard with a comprehensive advanced driver assistance system that includes:

 

• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist

• Lane Keeping Assist

• Lane Following Assist

• Lane Departure Warning

• Adaptive Cruise Control

• Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance-Assist

• Blind-Spot View Monitor

• Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance-Assist

• Highway Driving Assist

• Smart Cruise Control w/ Stop & Go

• Intelligent Speed Limit Assist

• Driver Attention Warning

• High Beam Assist

• Surround View Monitor

• Parking Distance Warning

• Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist – Reverse

• Remote Smart Parking Assist

• Safe Exit Assist

• Advanced Rear Occupant Alert

• Tire Mobility Kit

 

Final Statement:

As the newest luxury brand on the market, Genesis continues to build impressive vehicles that are contemporary with a sleek design, serene interior, and refined drive quality. Details like the dual horizontal lighting signatures, high quality interior, intricate wheels, and paint quality separate this from competing models. It’s extremely comfortable inside and its road manners amplify the calm vibe. Bonus features like all the standard driver assist technology and Smart Park are the icing on the cake for this refreshed Genesis GV70.