Genesis GV70 Electrified: A New Benchmark in Luxury Electric SUVs
Luxury brand Genesis continues to elevate its reputation in the automotive world, with the GV70 Electrified standing as a prime example of its commitment to innovation and style. Since its launch in 2020, Genesis has sold over 200,000 units globally, attracting attention with dramatic and eye-catching designs. The recently updated electrified GV70 not only looks the part but also delivers on performance and technology.
Striking Exterior and Premium Interior
The GV70 Electrified bears a resemblance to high-end models like Bentley, featuring a winged badge and crest grille. As the luxury sibling of Hyundai, it offers competitive pricing against German rivals, though optional extras can be costly. Exterior updates include a G-Matrix crest grille with a heated and electric-folding charging cover, parallel headlights, redesigned front bumper with wider air intakes, and 19-inch dark hyper silver wheels or 20-inch diamond-cut alloys on higher trims. At the rear, parallel indicators are integrated into combination lights.
Inside, the cabin exudes luxury with aluminium accents, ambient lighting featuring a new 'Mood Curator' function, and a premium soft-touch finish across the dashboard and centre console. Leather-style seats are heated and ventilated, depending on the model, providing generous head and legroom. A standout feature is the 27-inch Connected Car Integrated Cockpit (ccIC), which combines driver and infotainment screens into a seamless panoramic display, praised for its intuitive navigation.
Advanced Technology and Electric Performance
The GV70 Electrified supports over-the-air updates via Genesis Connect Services and includes Digital Key 2 for smartphone-based locking and starting, along with fingerprint authentication for added security. The touchscreen can be operated via a rotary dial, though caution is needed to avoid confusion with the nearby gear selector. Unique touches include a UV light-sanitising compartment in the armrest and binnacle dials that turn into cameras when indicators are activated.
Under the hood, the upgraded 84kWh battery powers a dual-motor setup delivering 490PS in Boost mode and 700Nm of torque, enabling a 0-62mph time of 4.4 seconds. A 'boost' button on the steering wheel provides full power for about ten seconds, making overtaking effortless. The vehicle features Virtual Gear Shift to mimic a conventional automatic gearbox, adding a quirky element to the EV experience. Claimed range is up to 287 miles with 20-inch wheels, assisted by smart regenerative braking 2.0, i-Pedal, and a standard heat pump for colder climates.
Rapid Charging and Handling
Charging times are impressive, thanks to an 800-volt architecture that supports ultra-rapid charging at up to 240kW. Under optimal conditions, the battery can charge from 10 to 80% in just 19 minutes. An intelligent battery heating system, now manually adjustable via the infotainment screen, ensures consistent charging in lower temperatures.
On the road, the GV70 delivers a comfortable yet agile drive, with adaptive suspension reducing body roll effectively. The all-wheel-drive system includes three selectable terrain modes (Snow, Sand, Mud) and a new AI-powered Auto Terrain mode that adapts to road conditions in real-time, enhancing safety and performance.
Practicality and Safety Features
Practicality is highlighted by a powered boot offering 503 litres of space, expandable to 1,675 litres with the 60/40 split rear seats folded. While there is no frunk for extra storage, the cabin includes various cubby holes and holders. Safety kit is comprehensive, featuring blind-spot monitoring, evasive steering assist, smart cruise control, lane following assist, driver attention warning, forward collision alert with pedestrian and cyclist detection, and a full complement of airbags. Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist (PCA) handles reverse, forward, and side scenarios.
Factfile and Pricing
GENESIS ELECTRIFIED GV70 Luxury
- Price: £74,915
- Mechanical: 490PS electric motor and 84kWh battery driving all four wheels via single-speed automatic transmission
- Max Speed: 145mph
- 0-62mph: 4.4 seconds
- Range: 287 miles (WLTP)
- Insurance Group: 50
- CO2 emissions: 0g/km
- BIK rating: 4%
- Warranty: Five years/unlimited mileage
Trim levels start at £65,915 for the Pure model, which includes features like a power tailgate, wireless charging, fingerprint recognition, heated front seats and steering wheel, and adaptive suspension. The £70,715 Dynamic version adds 20-inch wheels, a head-up display, and remote smart parking assist. The Luxury model, as detailed, brings a panoramic sunroof, active noise cancellation, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and a Bang & Olufsen 15-speaker system, with fully loaded options exceeding £80,000.
