Genesis has been on a role lately with the recent introductions of the new G80 and the GV80 and GV70 SUVs. For the 2022 model year it’s also updated the compact G70 sedan, which makes it an even more compelling rival to the BMW 3 Series.
On the outside the 2022 Genesis G70 gets refreshed front and rear fascias, which gives it a look that’s closer to the rest of the Genesis lineup. At the front there’s the quad headlights that flank a big grille, while the rear taillights mimic the design of the headlights. The new look helps the G70 stand out even more, making it one of our favorite compact luxury sedans to look at.
Under the hood the G70 is available with either turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 252 horsepower or a 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6 with 365 horsepower and 276 pound-feet of torque. Our tester was powered by the 3.3T. It’s an excellent choice, since the V6 spools up fast and is always eager to play. The standard eight-speed automatic transmission is smooth, but it can be a little slow to react. There are also paddle shifters if you wish it had a manual, but they could be a bit more responsive. If you want all-wheel drive, it’s optional and there’s an optional active exhaust system to make it sound even better.
The 2.0T is rated at 21 mpg city and 31 mpg highway, while the 3.3T is rated at 18/27 mpg.
Under the skin the G70 is available with adaptive dampers, in addition to bigger Brembo brakes to keep everything under control and a limited slip-differential if you pot for the 3.3T Sport Prestige model. On the road the G70’s suspension does an excellent job of providing a smooth ride and if you want a sportier experience the Sport mode tightens up the suspension a bit. There is a bit more body roll when pushed hard, but in everyday driving you won’t notice it. The Sport and Sport+ modes also add some weight to the steering, but it still is a little light. Overall the G70’s driving dynamics put it at the top of the class, since it’s just as or maybe a little more fun to drive than the 3 Series. We also enjoy driving it more than the Audi S4.
Inside not much has changed with the latest refresh, other than a new larger 10.3-inch display, which is a nice improvement over the old system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are obviously included and you can easily operate the system with your fingers. In front of the driver the gauge cluster is only half digital, which is a bit of a disappointment. On the right there’s an 8-inch LCD display that can display various info, while the right gets an analog speedometer and fuel gauge. We wish the G70 had a fully digital gauge cluster, like the other Genesis models.
The rest of the G70’s interior is an upscale experience, although the rear seat is a little short on space. There’s an ok amount of headroom, but legroom for the back-seat is not plentiful and foot room is a problem. The diamond-stitched seats look great and there’s plenty of high quality soft-touch materials throughout the interior. But the interior doesn’t get some of the more luxurious options, like open-pore wood trim like the other Genesis models.
On the safety front, the G70 comes standard with a long list of safety features, like adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, forward collision avoidance assist, a blind-spot monitor with rear-cross traffic alert, and automatic high beams.
The pricing for the 2022 Genesis G70 starts at $38,570 if you go for the G70 2.0T, the G70 3.3T starts at $43,125, including destination. If you go for the top spec 3.3T RQD Prestige model, it starts at $51,445.
The 2022 G70 is easily one of our favorite compact luxury sedans, which is a big statement considering how many other good options there are, like the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. With the twin-turbocharged 3.3-liter V6, the G70 is a joy to drive with its nearly perfect driving dynamics and punchy engine. Plus factor in the latest styling and tech upgrades, which make a great sedan even better.
