Car Review: 2022 Genesis GV70 compact luxury crossover is worth a look

Not very familiar with the luxury brand Genesis? The new GV70 compact luxury crossover is worth a look.

Even as a newer company in the luxury market, the Genesis brand has been selling luxury cars that offer all the trimmings for an easier-to-live-with price tag. Now it has a second, smaller crossover that looks to grow the brand.

The new GV70 stands out in the crowded luxury field. A large, angular grill flanked by four slim light clusters will make you remember the brand. The body has curves and even two louvers on the front fenders to add extra visual appeal. The top-of-the-line GV70 Sport Prestige model also comes packing huge, 21’’ wheels.

Past Genesis models came with nicely appointed interiors for the price tag. However, for 2022, the new GV70 has really upped its game. Upgraded materials highlight the upscale look of new Genesis vehicles.

Quilted Nappa leather seats are ventilated and heated and are dreams. The suede headliner and the carbon fiber trim give this interior a sportier look. The GV70 comes with plenty of space for people and gear. There is a very large, 14.5” touch screen with impressive graphics and a learning curve to use it correctly.

The GV70 provides a surprisingly fun-to-drive character, with the ability to coddle when needed. With a hushed cabin and a smooth ride even with the large wheels, this will pamper you on the road. However, it will also provide you with some fun when you hit the gas.

With a 375hp twin-turbo V6, power is not an issue, but pay attention to your speed. It has no problems passing or accelerating with loads of power and torque. The AWD system gets the power to the ground and the decent ground clearance should provide good all-weather capability.

Parked in a tight spot? Pull out the remote and with a push of a button back out or pull forward to an open area to hop in.


Cost: $52,600; as tested $64,045

MPG: 19 mpg city and 25 mpg highway; I managed 18.1 mpg in 336 miles of mixed driving.

Safety: Forward collision-avoidance assist; safe exit assist; blind spot collision avoidance assist; lane keeping assist with lane-changing oncoming; high beam assist; blind view monitor; smart cruise control with machine learning; surround view monitor; driver attention warning; parking distance waring reverse; highway drive assist 2

Options: $5,000 Sport Advanced package; $500 Mauna red paint; $4,900 Sport Prestige package; $1,045 inland freight & handling

Things to know: The new GV70 will make you think twice before you choose another luxury compact crossover. With power, luxury and style, the Genesis brand is looking to make waves.

Pros:

  • Good looks help the GV70 standout in the crowded luxury class
  • Comes packed with safety equipment and technology
  • Long warranty period and service valet make ownership easier

Cons:

  • Gas mileage is lacking with the thirsty twin turbo V6
  • There’s a learning curve with the infotainment system
  • New brand means dealer network is smaller for now
The 2022 Genesis GV70 AWD 3.5T Sport Prestige mixes luxury and sport in this compact crossover. (WTOP/Mike Parris)
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