2022 Genesis G70 Review: Value and Performance
The 2022 Genesis G70 is the lowest-price offering in the Genesis lineup, although it is by no means “entry level.” This fun-driving sport sedan has been redesigned for the 2022 model year, adopting the Korean brand’s unique style initially introduced on the flagship G90 and new GV80 SUV. With two turbocharged powerplants available, rear- or all-wheel drive and a long list of standard features, the 2022 Genesis G70 holds its own as a formidable sport sedan in an incredibly competitive market segment.
Test Vehicle
Genesis provided us with a 2022 G70 3.3T RWD Sport Prestige painted in Black Forest Green. The test vehicle arrived with the Sport Advance Package and Sport Prestige Package for a total MSRP of $51,945. Competitors to the G70 are numerous and include the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Acura TLX, Lexus IS, Cadillac CT4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Infiniti Q50.
2022 Genesis G70 Design Updates
For 2022 the Genesis G70 gets a major refresh with a larger, bolder version of the brand’s crest-type grille, as well as distinctive LED running lights surrounding the slim headlights. With the optional Sport Advanced Package, the grille and other exterior trim has a subdued black chrome finish. That combined with the Black Forest Green paint gives the G70 an almost sinister sneer. Nineteen-inch black alloy wheels and silver Brembo brake calipers complete the look.
Rear View
The taillights of the 2022 Genesis G70 have a quad LED treatment similar to lights up front, and they wrap around the rear corners of the vehicle. A lip spoiler on the trunk lid and large oval dual exhaust outlets give the G70 a high-performance vibe.
Inner Space
The sport sedan motif continues inside the 2022 Genesis G70 3.3T with a diamond pattern in the Nappa leather seats and doors, enhanced by contrasting red stitching. The sport seats are not only stylish but also comfortable for long journeys; they provide decent support during enthusiastic driving. Putting the car in Sport or Sport + mode automatically enhances the front-seat side bolsters via increased inflation — a cool feature.
Technology
For 2022 Genesis replaces the G70’s older display with a larger wide screen that gives the entire cabin a more high-tech look. The controls are intuitive, and split-screen capability means more info in view — even Android Auto in one section and the vehicle’s audio system in the other. Physical buttons for map, radio and media — as well as volume and tuning knobs — make access a breeze. Climate controls remain separate for ease of use.
Entertainment
The 2022 Genesis G70 as tested came with an optional Lexicon 15-speaker 660-watt audio system that provides exceptional sound. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are standard; however, they still require a wired connection. Wireless phone charging can be accomplished via the center console; additionally, the new G70 has a USB port in front, one in the center storage and another at the rear seat. For those who wish to relax without music, Genesis also offers Sounds of Nature that include a Lively Forest, Warm Fireplace, Calm Sea Waves or Rainy Day.
Rear Seat
The G70’s sporty seat styling and diamond pattern with red stitching continues into the rear seats. Passengers might discover that the outboard rear seats initially seem a bit tight thanks to large side bolsters; however, over time they will likely find that the seats become comfortable with decent legroom and headroom. Unfortunately, the center seat is practically unusable since it has no legroom and a stiff seat cushion.
Red Safety Belts
Granted, the red stitching and accents throughout the G70’s interior add a level of sportiness to the luxurious cabin. That said, the red safety belts are a bit much and seem almost gaudy. A better choice might be black belts with red accents — sometimes a bit of subtlety still gets the point across.
Trunk
The great thing about sport sedans can be their combination of performance in conjunction with utility, and the G70 is no exception. With a large trunk and integrated cargo net, the G70 offers plenty of space for multiple pieces of luggage.
Under the Hood
The 2022 Genesis G70 3.3T has the power to back up its sporty appearance. Under the hood resides a 3.3-liter twin-turbo direct-injection V6 engine generating a healthy 365 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque, teamed with an 8-speed automatic transmission. A mechanical limited-slip differential helps keep power on the road for better handling and acceleration. According to Genesis, the G70 3.3T rear-wheel drive will reach 60 mph in 4.5 seconds — although we didn’t have a measuring device during our test drive, the experience gave us no reason to dispute this number.
Fuel Economy
According to the U.S. EPA, the 2022 Genesis G70 3.3 T earns fuel-economy ratings of 18 mpg city / 27 mpg hwy / 21 mpg combined. Apparently during our testing we had a bit too much fun in this Genesis. With the car set in Sport + mode along with some heavy throttle use, the car’s trip computer read closer to 14 mpg after our drive.
On the Road
Some cars evoke a smile the moment a driving enthusiast slides behind the wheel — the G70 is one of those cars. Acceleration is strong, accompanied by an engaging exhaust note that isn’t overly loud yet sounds powerful. Shifts are quick and smooth, making the G70 enjoyable when driven hard or simply during freeway cruising.
Sport + Mode
The 2022 Genesis G70 offers plenty of performance in any drive mode; however Sport + quickly became our go-to mode during testing. Sport + adjusts the suspension, steering and powertrain settings for optimum performance, and it is a noticeable difference. Acceleration feels stronger with gears held practically to redline; quick downshifts maintain maximum performance through corners. The car’s steering is precise, and even while pushing this big sedan through some favorite winding roads it never became unsettled, providing a confident, enjoyable ride.
Rating: 9.0
Genesis is one of the newest brands in the luxury car space, and already the automaker builds some of the best cars on the market. The 2022 Genesis G70 delivers standout styling and matching performance that make this sport sedan great fun to drive. Add a high-tech, luxurious interior with a sporty flair and the functionality of a proper 4-door sedan, and the G70 easily competes with European and Japanese offerings costing considerably more.
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