2024 Genesis GV70

We continue to be impressed by the GV70. There’s a combination of factors behind this — like the amount of standard equipment, engine choices, build quality, design, the driving experience, the competitive pricing, and the warranties. If we were working for the maker of one of its rivals, we probably wouldn’t be sleeping much.

It’s logical, then, that we made the GV70 a Best Buy for its class. Just like we did the year before, when the GV70 launched.

Genesis is not just on a roll; the company is gathering serious momentum, and the GV70 is a major contributor to this situation as one of the marque’s best-sellers. Anyone considering a compact luxury SUV needs to have the GV70 on their list of candidates.

The Genesis Electrified GV70 is reviewed separately.

Wi-Fi becomes standard across the 2024 GV70 lineup. The 2.5T version gains 19-inch alloy wheels and upgraded front brake calipers. The Sport Prestige variant with this engine also gains ventilated front seats, Remote Smart Parking Assist, manual rear window shades, and a Lexicon audio system as standard. The 3.5T model gains upgraded driver assistance features, with 21-inch alloy wheels available with the Sport Advanced trim.

Compared with European rivals, the GV70’s power and equipment make it a bargain. Similar versions of the Audi Q5, Alfa Romeo Stelvio, BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC, and Volvo XC60 start in the mid-to-high 40s. The Cadillac CT5 and new-for-2024 Lincoln Corsair are more on the GV70’s level. The Acura RDX begins in the low 40s and the Lexus NX kicks off in the high 30s.

Before buying a new GV70 luxury SUV, check the KBB.com Fair Purchase Price to know what you should be paying. In terms of resale values, we expect the GV70 to be close to the RDX and NX, above the European and American contingents.

The 2.5T version of the 2024 GV70 has 300 horsepower, more than any other main contender and worth a few tenths in the zip from standstill to 60 mph. The rest of the pack are in the 6-second region.

As its alphanumeric name hints, the GV70 is based on the same platform as the G70 luxury compact sedan. It’s a great move, because we think the G70 is one of the most engaging cars made by Genesis so far. Although driver involvement may not be such a priority for buyers looking at luxury SUVs, most of us are still open to some fun when the occasion allows. Which is not to say that the GV70 has a firm ride. During our times with it, we’d say it strikes a great balance between cushioning and control.

The 375-horsepower 3.5T can go up against something like the BMW X3 M40i or Audi SQ5. Nothing in the Acura RDX or Lexus NX lineups comes close. This model also has an adaptive suspension that can read the road ahead and adjust settings to suit.

There’s one odd little thing with the optional 12.3-inch digital driver information display. The rev counter (to the right of the speedometer) moves counter-clockwise as the speedo moves clockwise as a kind of mirror image. In the normal world, they would both go in the same direction. Of course, there would be many more clues to show that the engine was being over-revved, but we found that initial cognitive dissonance a bit unsettling.

We’ve spent hundreds of hours driving and researching the current collection of compact luxury SUVs, including the Genesis GV70.

Fuel Economy

The 2.5T achieves 24 combined mpg (22 city, 28 highway), a mid-pack performance. The Lexus NX 250 AWD can manage 28 combined mpg. The 3.5T returns 20 combined mpg (18 city, 24 highway). Both engines require premium gasoline.

It’s really upscale inside the 2024 GV70. An exhilarating mix of tech and sumptuousness emphasizes this compact SUV’s luxury credentials. There’s a high-quality feel right down to the steering wheel and switchgear.

A heated steering wheel and 3-zone automatic climate control are part of the 2.5T Standard’s optional packages. Simulated leather seating surfaces are standard in this introductory model, with the real stuff part of the Advanced package.

Adults will have to be taller than average to find fault with the accommodations in either row. Rear legroom of 37.2 inches isn’t class-leading, but it’s not far off. Cargo capacities with rear seats up (28.8 cubic feet) and down (56.9 cubic feet) are similarly plentiful.

Just an observation, which isn’t necessarily a criticism. The tempered-glass rotary gearshift and equally classy-looking circular infotainment system controller are right next to each other in the center console. Drivers might reach for the wrong one while still getting used to things.

Everyone has their own tastes, but the GV70’s looks work for us. There’s a cohesive design approach across the portfolio of Genesis SUV models, with double lights front and rear, along with an assertive (though not over-sized) grille. Compared with the 2.5T Standard model, the 3.5T Sport has a darker grille, larger front air intakes, and dual circular exhaust tailpipes.

14.5-inch infotainment touchscreen
A standard feature across the 2024 GV70 range, the graphics are super-crisp and the size is appropriate for this luxury SUV class. The system also includes Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration, navigation, Wi-Fi, and wireless charging.

Ergo Motion driver’s seat
More than a massaging seat, this has a programmed set of stretch movements to relieve pressure on the lumbar region and pelvis — wonderful to have on long journeys and dull commutes alike. It’s a standard feature exclusive to the 3.5T Sport.

Digital key
Accessing and starting the 2024 GV70 can be done with an Android phone. When verified with the fingerprint reader, driver profiles are loaded automatically, adjusting seat positions and audio preferences. Apple iPhone owners can use a key card. This feature is offered in both GV70 variants.

3D digital instrument cluster
This optional 12.3-inch unit takes digital gauges to another level by showing slightly different images to each eye.

Remote Smart Parking
The driver can decide whether to stay in the vehicle, or operate it from outside, while this self-parking feature handles either parallel or perpendicular spaces.

Lexicon surround-sound system
Audiophiles who love/need to hear details like the sound of a bow against a violin string, or the subtle nuances of a great singer’s timbre, will appreciate the 16-speaker/1,050-watt Lexicon system that’s available in both 2024 GV70 SUV models.

In what should be a surprise to no one, the 2.5T Standard version of the 2024 GV70 SUV has a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine. It’s a 4-cylinder unit making 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. A muscular 375 horsepower and 391 lb-ft is developed by the twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 in the 3.5T variant.

Both engines connect to an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive is standard throughout.

5-Year/60,000-Mile Warranty

Like its parent company, Hyundai, Genesis offers the best warranties in the business. The new-vehicle warranty lasts five years or 60,000 miles (whichever happens first), roadside assistance is provided for five years with unlimited mileage, scheduled maintenance is free for the first three years or 36,000 miles, and powertrains are covered for 10 years or 100,000 miles.

Safety Ratings

The highest accolade of Top Safety Pick+ has been given to the GV70 by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It also earned a maximum 5-Star overall score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Standard driver assistance features include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking/junction turning assistance/pedestrian detection, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.