2026 Genesis GV70

The GV70 is a big seller for Genesis, and deservingly so. With all its equipment and power, the GV70 compares well against its rivals — many of our owner reviews agree. Yet, it can also compete in the luxury stakes in terms of ride quality and build quality.

The Genesis Electrified GV70 is reviewed separately.

We’ve logged hundreds of hours driving and evaluating this generation of compact luxury SUVs, including the Genesis GV70.

What’s New for 2026

Having launched for 2022, the 2026 GV70 receives a mid-generation revamp. There are some subtle tweaks to the grille and exterior lighting, plus some new wheel designs. The biggest changes occur inside, with a new OLED instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen housed in one 27-inch display, plus a smaller second screen below for climate controls.

On-Sale Date

We think the 2026 Genesis GV70 will be available in the first half of 2025.

Genesis has yet to mention any drivetrain changes for 2026, and there may not be any. In which case, the 2.5T version of the GV70 has 300 horsepower, more than any other leading contender, and is worth a few tenths in the zip from standstill to 60 mph. The rest of the pack is 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 a priority for buyers looking at luxury SUVs, most of us are still open to some fun when the occasion allows. It is not to say that the GV70 has a firm ride. During our times with it, we’d say it strikes a balance between cushioning and control.

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

Fuel Economy

The 2.5T achieves 24 mpg in combined city and highway driving — a mid-pack performance here. The Lexus NX 250 AWD can manage 28 mpg combined, albeit with less power. The GV70 3.5T returns 21 mpg combined. Both engines require premium gasoline.

For 2026, Genesis has installed a 27-inch dual-screen OLED unit combining a driver information display and an infotainment touchscreen, adding a smaller screen lower in the center console for climate controls. The Sport trim is set to receive a flat-bottomed steering wheel.

Overall, the GV70 is upscale inside. An exhilarating mix of tech and sumptuousness emphasizes this compact SUV’s luxury credentials. The steering wheel and switchgear have a high-quality feel.

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 far from class-leading. 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. It’s not hard to reach for the wrong one while still getting used to things.

Everyone has their tastes, but the GV70’s looks work for us. There’s a cohesive design approach across the entire lineup of Genesis SUV models. Changes for 2026 include redesigned front and rear lights and a revised grille — nothing too drastic. There are also some new designs for the alloy wheels.

Powered tailgate
Apart from the obvious convenience, the thing we really like about this standard feature is that it opens automatically when the person with the key simply stands by the tailgate for three seconds.

27-inch OLED display
This looks like the star of the 2026 revamp, bringing the GV70’s tech up to the same level as its most contemporary rivals.

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 — we’ve found it 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 GV70 can be done with a phone. Driver profiles can be loaded automatically, adjusting seat positions and audio preferences. This feature is offered in both GV70 variants.

Remote Smart Parking Assist
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 GV70 SUV models.

It should surprise no one that 2.5T versions of the GV70 SUV feature a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine. It’s a 4-cylinder unit making 300 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque. A twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 develops a muscular 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque in the 3.5T variant. Both engines connect to an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive standard throughout.

5-Year/60,000-Mile Warranty

Genesis offers the best warranties in the segment. 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 safety 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.