Mark, Author at Maynards Garage

8 Generations of the Golf GTI

by Mark | Jul 19, 2023 | 0 comments

A graphic sketch timeline of the eight generations of the VW GTI

(All photos courtesy VWoA)

Volkswagen didn’t know it at the time, but when it debuted the first Golf GTI in 1976 it was like tossing a lighted match to gasoline — the hot-hatch segment of sporty front-wheel-drive compact cars was born.

TV advertising taunted performance enthusiasts with the German-tinged tune of “Little GTI,” their remake of the iconic “Little GTO,” by Ronnie and the Daytona’s. And with the “Fly GTI” ad campaign, an image was seared into American consciousness that fun cars did exist in the age of increased emissions standards and rising fuel prices.

The Golf GTI — now in its eighth generation — created a worldwide, cult following. Originally, 5,000 units had been planned, but sales of the Golf GTI Mk1 totaled 461,690 units.

Though Volkswagen ended Golf production for the U.S. this year, it will preserve the GTI fan club. The Golf family name will carry on in model year 2022 with the introduction of the all-new Mk 8 Golf GTI and Golf R, arriving this Fall.

In tribute to its survival, VWoA released today for #TBT this visual DNA of the GTI and how the car has developed over the past half century. Commentary is provided by Marco Pavone, head of exterior design for the new Golf GTI.

Golf GTI Mk 1

An everyday talent with a dash of “brutishness” – all signs of the revolutionary design concept of the first Golf GTI.

The original GTI hit the scene in Europe in 1976, full of confidence, sporting a front grille with a red border and a simple design. The inside of the black radiator grille on the original GTI features 11 thin horizontal lines. The headlights, protruding from under the hood of the lightweight compact car, form the external end points. The early GTI can be identified by the narrow bumper that was replaced by broader, plastic-covered bumpers in 1978. The first GTI emblem is chrome and intentionally presents a stark contrast with the black Volkswagen logo. “Even with the original GTI, all the design elements already reflect a clear attitude,” says Pavone.

Golf GTI Mk 2

The second generation of Golf GTI has a more aggressive look: the side, in particular, gives it a more “broad-shouldered” appearance.

“The design of the second-generation Golf GTI is a fascinating development,” says Pavone. Initially sporting twin headlights, like its predecessor, the 16-valve version of the second-generation GTI came with integrated fog lights from 1988 — each located next to the headlights. The grille is still outlined in red, while the bumper itself also features a red GTI line. Under this, for the first time, comes an additional air intake. On the whole, the design continues the conceptual course of the first generation: it is larger, wider and more comfortable. The Volkswagen logo remains black.

Golf GTI Mk 3

The improved comfort is clear to see from the third GTI. For the first time, the front spoiler and radiator grille are the same color as the car.

The third GTI is somewhat softer and has even more of a wedge shape. “This backs up the sporty character of the Golf GTI,” Pavone says. The front features a striking modification: the double headlamps of the second-generation GTI disappear under a combined diffuser lens, replaced by a collective diffuser. They give the radiator grille, which now consists of just three thick horizontal bars, a narrower appearance. The front spoiler is finished in the same color as the car, and is once again lowered and broader. This lower area also features a split air intake, which becomes a typical feature of generations 4 through 6. Another new feature is the striking red line below the halogen lighting unit, while the GTI emblem, now in red, is moved closer toward the chrome Volkswagen logo, which is now in chrome.

Golf GTI Mk 4

The Golf 4 GTI set new benchmarks in terms of individuality, quality and speed, says design chief Marco Pavone.

“Launched in 1998, the Golf 4 GTI has a more modest appearance. For example, it is the first and only GTI not to sport the red stripe on the radiator grille. And yet the model is celebrated to this day as the starting point for a new, clean era of vehicle design. It also set new benchmarks in terms of individuality, quality and speed,” says Pavone. From the designer’s perspective, the European 25th-anniversary edition was particularly striking. “It was thanks to that model that I was bitten by the GTI bug,” says Pavone, who was born in Brazil. “The brilliant clear-glass headlights and wide sills were particularly distinctive!”

However, even in the production GTI, the lighting units (including the turn signals and fog lights) were installed in a compact module. The front and rear aprons, side sills and roof-edge spoilers were painted the same color as the car itself, while many elements were once again broader than those of its predecessor. The GTI logo shifted from the right to the left for the first time.

Golf GTI Mk 5

GTI No. 5 saw the iconic honeycomb pattern introduced to the sports compact from Wolfsburg for the first time.

“The design of the fifth-generation GTI is once again far more self-contained and takes inspiration from the first GTI,” says Pavone, describing the development. This is particularly clear from the red trim around the radiator grille. One new and emotional style element is the honeycomb design of the grille: Pavone says, “Even today, it is still hard to imagine a GTI without it!”

The round twin headlights are back, grouped in a unit behind dark glass. Just like its ancestor, the fog lights are located low down in the front apron.

Golf GTI Mk 6

A throwback to the original GTI, directed by two parallel red GTI lines, sharper edges and new, black fins in the front apron.

The sixth generation of the Golf GTI transported the tradition of the original version into the future. Two fine red trim lines run across the grille and link the bi-xenon headlamps. The spoiler is now adorned with striking air intakes with three sharp fins on each side. The vertical fog lights are also located low. The spoiler takes up the central alignment of its predecessor, but broadens it. A splitter is also installed for the first time. “That gives the Golf 6 GTI the most powerful, modern and angular appearance to date,” says Pavone.

Golf GTI Mk 7

The seventh generation had full-LED headlights.

For the first time, the GTI trim runs into full-LED headlights.

“This was the first GTI on which I was allowed to let my creative juices flow as a designer,” says Pavone. “For me, it remains the very best, with an iconic quality — no GTI had ever been as stylish.”

The continuous red GTI trim on the seventh generation runs confidently into the slim, full-LED headlights. The hood arches right down to the grille, while sharp lines run from the headlights up to the A pillar. One particularly characteristic element is the daytime running light with its “Wings” design, which also features the red GTI trim. The broader side sills emphasize the fact that this ‘power’ Golf is a dynamic beast. However, the front spoiler, with its typical GTI honeycomb pattern, also impresses with wider bumpers extending further outwards.

Golf GTI Mk 8

The MK8 uses the honeycomb pattern to hide the optional fog lights, in an X formation, for the first time.

The deep-set headlights are enough to set the eighth-generation GTI apart and reinforce that light is the new chrome. “This Golf GTI has become an icon of the modern era and bears the unmistakable design DNA of its predecessors. However, it embodies these attributes in a more progressive and digital manner than ever before, with a particularly powerful and dynamic stance,” says Pavone. Immediately below the hood, we find the familiar red GTI trim. While the predecessor’s bumper was divided by fins, the honeycomb design is now completely open. Located to the left and right are the new GTI wings, which charismatically integrate the optional LED fog lights in an X shaped and create a completely new impression.

2022 Volkswagen Golf R

When it goes on sale late this year, the all-new 2022 Volkswagen Golf R will be the most powerful Golf R to date — 315 hp, 310 lb.-ft. torque and a new 4Motion all-wheel-drive system with rear-axle torque vectoring. (VWoA)

Mark Maynard

1930 Curtiss-Wright Kingbird Model 55

by Mark | Jul 18, 2023 | 0 comments

Though praised for its handling and performance, the 7-passenger Curtiss-Wright Kingbird airliner was not a commercial success and was pulled from production in 1934

A black and white image of a 1930 Curtiss Wright KIngbird

The 1930 Curtiss Kingbird Model 55 was powered by two Wright J-6-9 Whirlwind nine-cylinder air-cooled radial piston engines, each producing 300 horsepower. (Photo from the Paul S. Maynard archive)

BY MARK MAYNARD

The Curtiss-Wright Kingbird was a short-lived U.S. airliner built in small numbers in the early 1930s. The twin-engine Kingbird was a well-liked aircraft by its operators and was praised for its good handling and performance. However, it was not a commercial success and was withdrawn from production in 1934. The Kingbird was replaced by the Curtiss-Wright Condor, a larger and more powerful airliner.

According to the plane’s page in Wikipedia, the Kingbird was a twin-engine evolution of the single-engine Curtiss Thrush. It shared a similar fuselage but with two engine nacelles mounted on the struts on either side of the fuselage. The Kingbird had a blunt nose behind the propeller arcs, allowing the engines to be mounted closer together. The engines were positioned closer to the plane’s centerline to minimize asymmetrical thrust in the event of engine failure.

The Kingbird was powered by two Wright J-6-9 Whirlwind nine-cylinder air-cooled radial piston engines, each producing 300 horsepower. It had a maximum speed of 175 miles per hour and a range of 600 miles. The Kingbird could carry a crew of one and seven passengers.

The Kingbird was first flown in 1930 and was certified by the U.S. Department of Commerce in 1931. Curtiss-Wright built a total of 25 Kingbirds between 1931 and 1934. The airliner was used by a number of airlines, including Eastern Air Lines, Transcontinental Air Transport, and Western Air Express.

Curtiss Kingbird Factoids

The Kingbird was named after the Eastern Kingbird, a small bird known for its aggressive behavior;
The Curtiss Kingbird was the first airliner equipped with a radio altimeter;
The U.S. Army Air Corps used the Kingbird as a training aircraft.

Curtiss-Wright Kingbird Specifications

Crew: 1

Capacity: 7 passengers

Length: 34 feet, 5.125 inches

Wingspan: 54 feet, 6 inches

Height: 10 feet, 0 inches

Wing area: 405 square feet

Empty weight: 3,877 pounds

Gross weight: 6,115 pounds

Powerplant: 2 × Wright J-6-9 Whirlwind 9-cylinder air-cooled radial piston engines, 300 horsepower each

Maximum speed: 175 miles per hour

Range: 600 miles

NOTE: This is another image from my dad, Paul Smith Maynard, who worked four decades in aviation as an engineer. Dad began his career in about 1943 after graduating from West Virginia University. He started with Curtiss-Wright Corp., a pioneer in making flying machines. He went on to work at North American Aviation and Rockwell International. See more of his vintage plane pics here.

2023 Genesis Electrified GV70 Review

by Mark | Jun 28, 2023 | 0 comments

Stand back and give the Electrified GV70 a good look. Its fashion-forward styling has the look of wealth and richness. And it is.

The Genesis Electrified GV70 plugged in at a charging station

Electrified Genesis models are now sold in 23 states, and the brand says all new Genesis models will be electric starting in 2025, and the entire lineup will be all-electric by 2030. (Photos courtesy GenesisUSA or as credited)

What is Genesis?
EV Competitors to GV70
Genesis GV70 Pricing
Genesis Warranties
Interior Features
Function with Finesse
Electrified GV70 Performance
Charging and Driving Range
A Mobile Power Source
Advanced Safety Technologies
Why Buy the 2023 Genesis Electrified GV70?
Specifications

BY MARK MAYNARD

The 2023 Genesis Electrified GV70 epitomizes the trendsetting “quiet luxury” movement in the automotive segment.

According to a recent money report by MSN.com, the so-called quiet luxury is defined by expensive materials in muted tones. Also known as “stealth wealth,” the trend is for “the complete lack of logos and anything too conspicuous,” said Thomaï Serdari, professor of marketing and director of the fashion and luxury program at NYU’s Stern School of Business.

The understated Genesis Electrified GV70 is one such example. This midsize, five-seat battery-electric SUV crossover has no green or blue “EV” badging. It does not have the snub-nose grille-less face or an awkwardly raised body intended to disguise the down-low, flat skateboard electric powertrain.

Look around the interior, and the appearance is of a “normal” car. The GV70 has no gimmicky displays and wide screens for a faux panorama. There is a wide screen atop the instrument panel, but it simply navigates the menus for phone, performance, electric performance, and charging needs.

Among the interior materials in the Electrified G70 are woven wool, tricot mesh (manufactured) fabric, and suede. A two-tone Glacier White interior option has copper-tone piping and quilted Nappa leather upholstery.

Stand back and give the GV70 a good look. Its fashion-forward styling has the look of wealth and richness. And it is.

A fashionable interior with smart placement of controls.

What is Genesis?

Genesis Motors is the luxury division of South Korea-based Hyundai and Kia Motors. Genesis launched in the United States in late 2016 with the G80 and G90 midsize and large sedans. The brand has since brought out the Genesis G70 sport sedan, followed by the brand’s first SUV, the GV80. An Electrified G80 sedan and the battery-electric GV60 compact SUV came online in 2021. And the Electrified GV70 went on sale in 2022, making it the brand’s third electric model.

Electrified Genesis models are now sold in 23 states, and the brand says all new Genesis models will be electric starting in 2025. By 2030, Genesis plans to have an all-electric lineup.

The tally of states selling Genesis EVs to date is Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin.

Many Genesis dealerships are paired with Hyundai dealerships. However, the brand has opened five standalone dealerships in the U.S. Genesis Santa Monica is the latest addition and the first in California.

The Genesis Electrified GV70 is the first Genesis built outside South Korea. In 2022, Hyundai Motors announced plans to begin EV production in Montgomery, Ala. Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama assembles the Hyundai Elantra compact sedan, Santa Fe midsize SUV, Tucson compact SUV, the Santa Cruz pickup and now the Genesis Electrified GV70. The $300 million project is expected to add 200 jobs.

In a related project, supplier Hyundai Mobis is building a $205 million 400-job EV battery module plant in Montgomery, expected to be complete in 2025. It will provide batteries to the Hyundai auto assembly plant and the Kia auto plant in Georgia.

A line of blue ambient lighting sets off the dash and center console.

A line of ambient lighting sets off the dash and center console.

EV Competitors to the GV70

Comparably equipped, all-wheel drive, luxury-class all-electric SUVs that compete with the Genesis Electrified GV70:

Audi Q8 e-tron, 285-mile range: $85,995;

BMW iX xDrive50, 307-mile range: $89,300;

Cadillac LYRIQ, 314-mile range: $79,985;

Mercedes-Benz EQB, 245-mile range: $69,550;

Tesla Model Y, 279-mile range: $51,380, including a $250 order fee.

Note: Retail pricing includes the vehicle freight charge but no EV incentives or rebates.

The dash-top 14.5-inch multimedia screen.

2023 Genesis GV70 Pricing

The Genesis GV70 is available in gasoline and battery-electric (Electrified) models. The styling is near identical for each, with a few subtle separators. The electrified GV70 can be recognized by its solid G-Matrix grille pattern, with the concealed EV charging port on the right corner and no exhaust pipes. The electric GV70 also has a stiffer structure and more soundproofing than the gasoline version, which also is quiet on the road.

The gasoline GV70 has two all-wheel-drive trim levels, a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine or a 3.5-liter V-6. The GV70 2.5T starts at $44,275 and can range to $54,425 with special paint and the Advanced package ($8,600). The GV70 3.5T ranges in price from $56,375 to $67,775.

Neither model includes a cargo cover or net for such a luxury price. Those accessories would add $250. A reversible cargo area mat is $160, which might be helpful for a bit more soundproofing.

Alta White is the only no-cost paint color. The other 12 color choices range in cost from $575 to $1,500.

2023 Electrified GV70 Pricing

The Genesis Electrified GV70 has trim levels of Advanced and Prestige. Pricing starts at $66,975, including the $1,125 freight charge from Montgomery, Ala. The Prestige test vehicle was $75,525 with the Prestige package ($6,800), Makalu Gray Matte paint ($1,500), and a two-tone Glacier White interior with copper piping and quilted Nappa leather upholstery.

The Boost button at the base of he steering wheel for a jolt of passing power.

The Boost button for a jolt of passing power.

Among the Prestige features are a leatherette-wrapped upper instrument panel, microfiber suede headliner, head-up display, a 3D instrument cluster, premium audio system, active noise control-road, heated second-row seats and steering wheel, and rear side-window sunshades.

Despite being built in America, the Electrified GV70 still sources battery materials from outside the U.S., which makes it ineligible for a federal tax rebate. However, it does receive the tax credit when leased, and Genesis passes that on to consumers with more attractive lease pricing. And owners can still benefit from HOV access.

Check current GV70 pricing and offers here.

Precise fitment and lines throughout the interior. (Mark Maynard photo)

Electrify America & Genesis

Working with the public charging company Electrify America, owners of the Electrified GV70 receive three years of free 30-minute charging sessions from the vehicle purchase date. EA has a range of nationwide fast-charging stations, which can be located via the Genesis Connected Services and Electrify America mobile apps.

Genesis Warranties

Genesis takes care of its customers with a wealth of warranty coverages.

The “chauffeur” power seat switch on the side of the front passenger seat can move and change the seatback angle of an unoccupied front passenger seat. (Mark Maynard photo)

The “chauffeur” seat switch.

The basic new-vehicle warranty includes:

5 years or 60,000 miles bumper to bumper;
3 years or 36,000 miles of free scheduled maintenance;
3 years or 36,000 miles free service valet;
3 years of free map updates;
10 years or 100,000 miles powertrain;
10 years or 100,000 miles electric vehicle system (or in California, 10 years or 150,000 miles).

For on-road assistance, called Connected Care, uses a cellular network connection for Automatic Collision Notification, Enhanced Roadside Assistance, and SOS Emergency Assistance. The system also includes a monthly vehicle health report, maintenance, and diagnostic alerts.

Concierge and Service Valet

Service Valet and Concierge Services are among the warranty coverages, and both are money to an owner. For service, Genesis will handle vehicle pickup, deliver a replacement Genesis, and return your vehicle when service is required. The pickup and return can be anywhere the owner chooses, within reason. Learn more about the Service Valet at https://owners.genesis.com/us/en/resources/vehicle-health/genesis-service-valet-simplifies-maintenance.html

The free three-year subscription also provides online or app scheduling of service appointments. The Electrified GV70 will also give owners a screen alert when it is time for service and then connect to schedule an appointment with the preferred dealership.

The split screen camera shows overhead views.

The all-around view of the camera system. (Mark Maynard photo)

Concierge Services

Many new vehicle owners develop relationships with the dealership service manager, but Genesis encourages owner involvement through its concierge services. For example, if the nearest Genesis dealer is out of your way, the concierge can arrange an at-home or multiple test drives. And if you loved the Genesis you tested, the concierge will help plan a visit to the nearest dealership to finalize the sale. Here is how to get started.

Interior Features

I quickly felt comfortable in the driver’s seat. Sightlines are open across the hood and out the rear window, wide and somewhat deep. The front side mirrors are on the body, not at the windshield pillars, which opens cornering views.

A split-screen camera view gives an overhead view, forward and reverse. Animated graphics show the GV70 moving and how close it is to other vehicles or objects.

The 12-way adjustable driver’s seat should be considered a safety feature for how it conforms to the driver. Driver’s seat height is an asset for short drivers such as me. However, I did not need the full height, while in most other cars, I instinctively raise the seat to its highest position. The front passenger seat has eight-way power.

Another choice to dial in what should be your ideal position is Smart Posture Care. The system analyzes the driver’s posture. Once seated, the driver enters their height and weight on the posture screen. The system then adjusts the driver’s seat, steering wheel, mirrors, and head-up display to the optimal position.

Small-item storage areas range from large door panels, with a bottle slot, to a locking glove box and a fuzzy-lined armrest storage box with a 12-volt socket.

I especially liked the charging module that looks like a repurposed smoker’s package. The flip-top slot is wide enough for most smartphones and has a charging USB and media port.

Genesis engineers provide easy checkpoints for fluids. (Mark Maynard photos)

The top box in the engine bay holds a small kit for the spare tire inflator and other items.

The engine-top storage box — with a light.

Crafting Interior Calm

The Electrified GV70 is one of the better soundproofed vehicles I have tested, yet there is noticeable wind noise at highway speeds. And that is with the body’s low 0.29 coefficient of drag.

Otherwise, ride noise is subdued. Some of the work toward creating interior calm is from the Active Noise Control-Road system. It electronically measures and analyzes road noises and simultaneously creates sound waves at opposite frequencies.

Navigation is standard with a 14.5-inch HD screen. It is a cloud-based system for optimized routing, voice recognition, and over-the-air updates.

The shift console is driver-oriented, with a shifter dial in the rearward position near the armrest. Just ahead is a stylized dial with a knurled surround. It is nicely differentiated from the shift dial and gives access to the infotainment systems. It is handy to check such elements as the EV range, the navigation map, audio and media selections, and Genesis Connected Services for vehicle diagnostics and maintenance requirements.

GV70 Function with Finesse

The quality of interior construction is Tier 1 luxury. Panel alignment is intensely accurate. And even the double-stitched seam on the upper dash and doors matches perfectly with a dual bead of chrome trim just below.

Genesis provides a handy negative post to jump the charging battery. (Mark Maynard photo)

A charcoal microsuede headliner adds intrigue. And at night, a striking blue line of ambient lighting along the dash and center console has a dramatic effect.

Interior controls of the Electrified G70 are fully electronic, but Genesis engineering makes all those controls easy to figure out and use. Because there are many alternate controls, you can use as much or as little of the technologies as you wish.

For example, the ellipse of electronic controls for heat and AC has large dials to adjust the temperature. And the touch-sensitive controls, such as for seat heat or ventilation, have large displays that activate with a light touch, helping to keep eyes on the road.

Owners can also use a fingerprint reader to unlock and start the GV70. While using the start-stop button will suffice, the fingerprint reader’s benefit is that it is tied to the driver’s profile; it automatically loads the driver’s preferences when authenticated. This is particularly helpful for folks who share their vehicle with someone else.

An owner’s smartphone can also function as a digital key to lock and unlock the front doors and then use the fingerprint reader to start the car.

Back seat space has Reclining seatbacks and back-seat legroom of 36.6 inches.

Reclining seatbacks and back-seat legroom of 36.6 inches. (Mark Maynard photo)

Back Seat and Cargo Space

Adults in the back seat of the Electrified GV70 should be reasonably comfortable with 36.6 inches of legroom and a slightly short seat cushion. The doors open to near right angles, and the transmission tunnel is low for more center-seat foot space.

There are numerous Genesis perks, such as reclining seatbacks, electronic climate controls, lights, jacket and drycleaning hooks, and a broad armrest. Somewhat unusual is a front passenger seat “chauffeur” power switch to move the seat forward for more back seat legroom.

Cargo space of 28.7 to 56.5 cubic feet is unchanged from the gasoline G70. But because of the battery platform, the interior height of 27 1/2 inches might be short for tall cargo. Fold the 60/40 seatbacks for 6 feet in length.

There are many conveniences in the cargo area, including large side lights, robust seatback release levers, and a household 120-volt outlet.

Fold the rear seatbacks for 6 feet in length. (Mark Maynard photo)

Electrified GV70 Performance

Two motors of equal 160 kilowatt power produce 429 horsepower. But a Boost Mode gives a 10-second overboost to 483-hp. That boost feature is in addition to Sport mode, giving a thrilling jolt to acceleration.

A one-speed transmission simulates eight shift points. Acceleration can feel quite swift, launching to 62 mph in 4.2 seconds, per Genesis. Factor that force with a hefty curb weight of 5,038 pounds, which includes the battery weight of 1,063 pounds

I especially value the Intelligent Pedal (i-Pedal), which allows the driver to accelerate, decelerate, and slow to a stop using just the accelerator pedal. Not all EV makers use this type of system, believing the driver should be responsible for acceleration and stopping.

A low center of gravity from the battery placement lets the Electrified GV70 feel planted. Though there is confident handling, there is little driver feedback through the steering wheel.

Max towing of 3,500 pounds is the same for gas or electric GV70s.

The concealed charge door in the G-Matrix grille.

Charging and Driving Range

The estimated range for a fully charged Electrified GV70 is up to 236 miles. Charging at home, I saw fully charged ranges of 248 to 256 miles.

Helping to stretch the driving range, a Disconnector Actuator System automatically connects or disconnects the motor and drive shaft depending on driving conditions. The system switches between two-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. In daily driving, the power is rear-wheel drive. The system runs in all-wheel drive during stronger acceleration and in Sport mode.

Smart Regenerative Braking factors driving habits, real-time navigation, and road conditions to send kinetic energy back to the battery pack more effectively.

Adding 350kW rapid charging capability enables the 77.4 kWh battery to charge from 10 percent to 80 percent in about 18 minutes. Under optimal conditions, rapid charging can add more than 60 miles in 5 minutes.

The 400V/800V multi-rapid charging system raises the voltage supplied by typical chargers from 400V to 800V, Genesis says. And owners can use both 400V and 800V charging infrastructure without needing an additional converter. The 800V charging can be an asset when traveling, but most carmakers say to minimize the use of DC fast charging.

A Mobile Power Source

As a high-capacity electric source, the Electrified GV70 is part survival tool and charger on wheels. Vehicle to Load Charging, known as V2L, gives a 3.6kW charge. That charge is higher than the power supply in the average home when tapped through a household 120-volt outlet. V2L will not power an entire house but can power necessities during a power outage, tailgate parties, or outdoor projects.

V2L also can be used to charge a stranded EV. It will charge slowly, Genesis says, but it is helpful when the battery charge is very low or in an emergency.

Ventilated disc brakes all around, with 14.2-inch front discs and four-piston calipers.

GV70 Advanced Safety Technologies

The Electrified GV70 has all the advanced driver-assist technologies for hands-on-the-wheel semi-autonomous driving.

Driver-assist technologies include: parking distance warning, front and rear; parking collision avoidance assist rear; blind-spot collision-avoidance assist and rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist; lane keeping assist and lane following assist; forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian-cyclist detection and junction turning.

Full safety features are in the specs box below.

Highway Drive Assist

Keep your hands on the wheel for Highway Driving Assist. It’s the same system found in Hyundai and Kia models.

The sophisticated array of advanced technologies allows Level 2 assisted driving. In my testing, the system kept the GV70 accurately centered in the lane without crossing the lines or the highway Botts dots.

These driver-assist systems take time for the uninitiated to find their comfort level. The support is an all-seeing set of eyes that is of value in the crammed daily commuting traffic, especially in narrow construction areas. I now activate steering assist in HDA as a distraction-avoidance safeguard.

Why Buy the 2023 Genesis Electrified GV70?

As a standard bearer of stealth wealth, the 2023 Genesis Electrified GV70 tester is a defining statement of luxury for less. Genesis represents conscionable wealth.

I recommend leasing, not owning, a battery-electric vehicle. With so many electronics and digital displays, I do not trust they will remain trouble-free over 10 years. After a 3-year lease, the owner will get a fresh and fully updated new vehicle.

It is the brand’s comprehensive warranty coverage that sweetens the deal. The Genesis Service Valet saves the owner time and takes the stress from getting a vehicle to the dealership and back home.

With 250 miles of electric driving range, an owner should feel confident for about 90 percent of daily driving. A home Level 2 charger is essential for convenience and well worth the installation costs. For vacation travel, the Electrified GV70 owner and owners of EVs with even higher ranges will still meet at the fast charger while on the road.

A rear three quarter view of the electrified GV70

The electrified GV70 is so far sold only in 23 states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin.

2023 Genesis Electrified GV70 Specifications

Body style: midsize 5-seat AWD electric SUV crossover

Motors: 160 kW front and rear

Total system power: 429 hp with 10-second “Boost Mode” to 483 hp; 516 lb.-ft torque

Battery: 77.4 kWh lithium-ion polymer; 697 volts; with battery heating system

Battery weight: 1,063.3 pounds

Transmission: 8-speed automatic 1-speed reduction gear

EPA-estimated driving range: 236 miles

Fuel economy equivalent: 98/83/91 MPGe city/highway/combined

Top speed: 146 mph

0-62 mph acceleration: 4.2 seconds

Max towing capacity: 3,500 pounds with braked trailer

CHARGE TIMES

Onboard ultra-fast charging capacity up to 800 volts, 350 kW

120-volt household outlet: About 68 hours;

AC Level II, 240-volt: About 7 hours from 10 percent to 100 percent

50kW Rapid Charging: 73 minutes from 10 to 80 percent

250kW Rapid Charging: 18 minutes from 10 to 80 percent

BY THE NUMBERS

Coefficient of drag: 0.29 cd

Cargo space: 28.7 to 56.5 cubic feet

Front head/leg room: 38.6*/41.3 inches *without sunroof

Rear head/leg room: 38.6/36.6 inches

Front shoulder/hip room: 59.1/56.1 inches

Length/wheelbase: 185.6/ 113.2 inches

Width/height: 75.2*/64.2 inches *excluding side mirrors

Curb weight: 5,038 pounds

Turning circle: 37.8 feet

FEATURES

Prestige package equipment includes: Nappa leather-trimmed upholstery, 14-way power driver seat with Ergo Motion and 4-way power lumbar and cushion extension, 12-way power passenger seat with 4-way power lumbar and cushion extension, integrated memory system with Smart Posture Care, heated and ventilated front seats, 15-speaker Lexicon premium audio system with Quantum Logic Surround sound, second-row sunshades;

Standard GV70 features include: Proximity key with push-button start, remote start, panoramic sunroof, power-folding side mirrors with Genesis logo, smart cruise control with stop & go, front wireless charging pad, a rearview camera with parking guidelines, surround-view monitor with blind-spot view, remote smart parking assist, head-up display, power hands-free liftgate, 60/40 split-folding back seat, cargo cover, carpeted floor mats, 20-inch wheels, electric suspension with road preview;

Safety features include: 8 air bags, brake assist, hill-start assist;

Driver-assist technologies include: parking distance warning, front and rear; rear parking collision avoidance assist; blind-spot collision-avoidance assist and rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist; lane keeping assist and lane following assist; forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian-cyclist detection and junction turning.

PRICING

Electrified GV70 Prestige base price: $66,975, including $1,125 freight charge; price as tested $75,525

Options on test vehicle: Makalu Gray matte paint $1,500

Where assembled: Montgomery, Ala.

Warranties: 5-years/60,000-miles bumper to bumper; 10-years/100,000-miles powertrain; 10-years/100,000-miles electric vehicle system (10-years/150,000-miles in California)

Genesis Experience: 3-years/36,000-miles free scheduled maintenance and service valet; 3 years map updates, and free connected services

2023 Toyota GR Corolla Core Review

by Mark | Jun 12, 2023 | 0 comments

The 300-hp, 3-cylinder all-wheel-drive 2023 Toyota GR Corolla is a $40K teacup supercar that speaks loudly and rolls on wide Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires

An exterior three quarter view of a supersonic red 300-horsepower, three-cylinder 2023 Toyota GR Corolla

The 300-horsepower, three-cylinder 2023 Toyota GR Corolla is a skunkworks project with Toyota GAZOO Racing team. (Photos courtesy of Toyota)

Toyota Racing
Engineering by GAZOO
My Favorite Sport Compacts
Pricing for the 3 GR Corolla Editions
Safety Features and Technologies
Corolla GR Core Ride and Handling
Why Buy the 2023 Toyota GR Corolla?
Specifications

BY MARK MAYNARD

I heard the growl of the GR Corolla before the Toyota driver rounded the corner to my house to deliver the week’s test car. The gutty exhaust tone was not the usual pitter-patter of little Corolla feet. The 300-horsepower, all-wheel-drive 2023 Toyota GR Corolla speaks loudly and rolls on wide Michelin Pilot Sport tires.

What is remarkable about this 300-hp is that it comes from a three-cylinder engine. The teacup powerplant is Toyota’s G16E-GTS engine with direct and port injection. The 1.6-liter turbocharged engine is tuned “for snappy acceleration out of the corners,” Toyota says. Peak torque runs steadily from 3,000 to 5,500 rpm. The max 300 horsepower comes on at 6,500 rpm. The only transmission offered is a six-speed manual. And the all-wheel-drive system has driver-manipulated torque split front to rear.

Triple exhaust tips reduce back pressure for maximum power and are a subtle show of weaponry.

If it even matters, the fuel economy is 21 mpg city, 28 highway, and 24 mpg combined using the required premium fuel. The 13.2-gallon fuel tank is the same size as in all Toyota Corollas.

GR Corolla interior features include metal-trimmed pedals, 6-way adjustable driver’s seat, and an 8-inch multimedia display with 6-speaker audio system.

GR Corolla interior features include metal-trimmed pedals, a 6-way adjustable driver’s seat, and an 8-inch multimedia display with 6-speaker audio system.

Toyota Racing Background

The GR Corolla is a wicked little dart of marketing. It promotes another side of this juggernaut automaker, the second-largest automaker in the world (just behind VW Group).

Toyota has been racing professionally for more than 41 years in American events. It has teams in the Baja 1000, NASCAR, NHRA, Formula Drift, World Rally, and even Midget racing. But the transfer of racing technology hasn’t bled so visibly onto Toyota’s retail vehicle development.

The GR Corolla is a special project granted corporate approval from Toyota Motor Corp. President Akio “Morizo” Toyoda, now 67. He is the founder’s grandson, but he has become better known as Toyota’s chief test driver. He is a skilled racetrack veteran and an advocate for corporate-backed racing.

Because Toyoda was so hands-on in race-testing Toyotas, he took the pseudonym of “Morizo” to disguise his activities from the corporate naysayers. It’s a fun story, found here.

The open hood shows the 300 hp turbocharged three cylinder engine

The GR Corolla’s 300-hp, G16E-GTS 3-cylinder turbocharged engine, tuned “for snappy acceleration out of the corners.”

Engineering by GAZOO Racing

Toyoda worked with its Toyota GAZOO Racing team to get this project right. It is this skunkworks group that develops technologies for Toyota’s GR sub-brand.

The mild-mannered Corolla is built on Toyota’s GA-C platform, accommodating front- and all-wheel-drive powertrains. But before the power goes in, the Corolla gets a workover at the GR factory at Toyota’s Motomachi plant. The accommodating five-door hatch is transformed with frame reinforcements, functional air vents for the engine and brakes, and other aerodynamic tweaks for stability at speed.

The GR Corolla is Toyota GAZOO Racing’s first wholly developed and manufactured model for the North American market. Their work is also available in the Toyota GR86 ($29,000) and the GR Supra ($45,000). Enthusiasts in Japan, Europe, and other countries also have access to the subcompact Toyota GR Yaris. It scoops up 261 hp from the same GR Corolla engine, but the GR Yaris is 430 pounds lighter.

The six-speed shifter with rev-matching downshifts.

The team’s detail-obsessed engineering created a race-pedigreed and street-legal track car sold at Toyota dealerships with the standard new-vehicle warranty of 3 years or 36,000 miles bumper to bumper and 5 years or 60,000 miles for the powertrain.

Coverage includes “responsible driving on track days,” Toyota says, but it also stresses induvial responsibility. To help protect the car, Toyota offers GR Corolla buyers a one-year membership to the National Auto Sport Association, with a free, coached track day session.

Comparable cars include the 315-hp Honda Civic Type R, 276-hp Hyundai Elantra N, 271-hp Subaru WRX, and 315-hp VW Golf R.

The 12.3-inch driver information screen has digital gauges for power settings and turbo pressure, a center tach, and gear position indicator lights.

My Favorite Sport Compact Cars

The GR Corolla reminded me of the most fun sport-compact cars I have tested. It’s not just about power; it’s the delivery, and the connectedness of the car to the driver.:

1997 Acura Integra Type R;

1998 Ford Contour SVT;

2017-2019 Ford Fiesta ST;

2009 Fiat 500 Abarth;

2018 Hyundai Elantra GT;

2019 Hyundai Veloster N;

2003-2005 Dodge Neon SRT-4;

2004 Mazdaspeed Miata;

2010 Mazdaspeed3 5-door;

2004 Subaru Impreza WRX sedan;

VW GTI or Golf R any year;

And now the 2023 Toyota GR Corolla.

GR Corolla Editions Pricing

There are three performance levels for the 2023 GR Corolla. And buyers of each receive a 1-year membership to the National Auto Sport Association. Included is a free High Performance Driving Experience .

I tested the entry GR Corolla Core. Core pricing starts at $36,995, including the $1,095 freight charge from Japan. There is a choice of three paint colors: black, white, and Supersonic red, a $425 option.

My Core tester had two of the three available factory options:

Performance package, $1,180, includes front and rear Torsen limited-slip differentials, 4-piston aluminum fixed-caliper disc brakes with red-painted calipers and GR logo (front), 2-piston aluminum fixed-caliper disc brakes with red-painted calipers and GR logo (rear)

Technology package, $770, includes 8-speaker JBL audio system with dynamic navigation (with 3-year trial), including 8-inch touchscreen, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatible, one USB media port, wireless smartphone charging pad.

Supersonic Red paint added $425.

Also available is a Cold Weather package, $500, which adds heated front seats and steering wheel.

The GR Corolla Circuit Edition has Brin-Naub synthetic leather-trimmed sport seats with red stitching.

The GR Corolla Circuit Edition has Brin-Naub synthetic leather-trimmed seats with red stitching.

GR Corolla Circuit Edition, $43,995

There is no shame in owning the entry GR Corolla Core. It is a showcase of performance engineering, but it might not compare well to a friend who stepped up to the Circuit Edition. This rascal gets serious about higher performance.

Circuit Edition standard features include a forged carbon fiber roof and an aluminum hood with a bulge and gloss-black air vents. Its disc brakes are the same size as the Core but with red-painted calipers and GR logo.

Rather than the Core’s open differential, the Circuit Edition has Torsen limited slip differentials front are rear.

And there are more gloss black body trim elements, rather than the Core’s matte black.

Circuit Edition interior features include Brin-Naub and synthetic leather-trimmed sport seats with red stitching, red mesh inserts, and GR-badged headrests. It also includes the cold weather package of heated front seats and heated leather steering wheel.

The optional carbon fiber roof saves a few ounces of weight

A carbon-fiber roof is standard on the Circuit and Morizo Editions.

GR Corolla Morizo Edition, $50,995

Finding a track-ready GR Corolla Morizo Edition won’t be easy: only 200 were built for 2023.

The two-seat Morizo Edition is the lightest and most powerful of the three trim levels. Its engine gets a 22 lb.-ft. torque boost to 295 foot-pounds from 3,250-4,600 rpm.

Lightweighting comes from several areas. GR engineers removed nearly 100 pounds of weight versus the Circuit Edition, now estimated to be 3,186 pounds. Most weight savings came from removing the back seat, rear speakers, and window lifts. Even the rear wiper and motor were pulled.

The hood and front door panels are aluminum, which saves weight and slightly lowers the center of gravity.

To further stiffen the hatchback body, the engineers added two more floor braces and one more rear strut brace. The frame has an additional 349 spot welds, with more than 19 ½ feet (6 meters) of structural adhesive applied.

Other Morizo modifications range from a close-ratio transmission and shorter differential gears to front brake ducts and mono-tube shock absorbers. Unique forged wheels have wider Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires.

Check here for current pricing and offers

To lighten the GR Corolla Morizo Edition, engineers pulled over 100 pounds of content for a curb estimated to be 3,186 pounds.

GR Corolla Safety Technologies

The GR Corolla is a legitimate, five-door sport-compact car with an expansive tech safety package that gives it Level 2 semi-autonomous driving capability. Toyota’s semi-autonomous driving is among the most accurate I’ve tested. Lane guidance is precise and did not let the car drift wide through highway cornering or cross the white lines.

Among the safety features are 10 air bags, a blind spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, and Toyota’s Star Safety System, which includes enhanced stability and traction controls.

Advanced safety technologies include Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, which includes:

Pre-collision system with pedestrian detection;
Lane departure alert with steering assist;
Lane tracing assist;
Automatic high beams;
Dynamic radar cruise control;
Road Sign Assist.

All GR Corollas have 14-inch ventilated front discs with four-piston calipers and rear 11.7-inch rear ventilated discs with two-piston calipers.

GR Corolla Core Ride and Handling

Choose the Core for its pure fun of rev, shift, and terrorize friends and the school carpool. As with any elite performance model today, the GR Corolla Core has a split personality. Toss the key to anybody who can work a stick shift, and they will have an easy time getting started. Make them aware that there is plenty of sporty fun within legal speed limits. It is on the upper end of engine revs that requires more focus from the driver.

Driving is friendly and unintimidating, but be ready when you engage Sport mode and roll on the power. The engine has bullish torque and acceleration to 60 mph scoots by un 4.99 seconds (same for the Circuit Edition). The lightened and more heavily braced Morizo Edition shaves a couple of tenths at 4.92 seconds.

The clutch has a medium-weight engagement, though never tiring. The shifter has refined gear engagement with a steely machined response. The gearbox is so NOT Corolla.

For all trim levels of GR Corolla, the GR-FOUR AWD has three driver-selectable torque-split settings, front-to-rear: Street 60/40, Touring 30:70), Track 50/50

The suspension is protective of occupants in daily driving but hit a surprise pothole and feel the painful jolt. I’d check the gauges for the flat tire icon on some hits, but I never had a blowout. And those remarkably responsive Michelins will cost around $250 each to replace. The tire has a sticky treadwear rating (UTQG) of 300, which pencils out to a warranty of 30,000 miles. The owner, however, will have waaay too much fun for the rubber to last that long.

The open cargo door shows plenty of space for groceries and track gear

Plenty of space for groceries or track gear.

Why Buy the 2023 Toyota GR Corolla?

The GR Corolla is a pocket-class supercar. It would not be my choice as a road-trip car, but it makes for a helluva fun everything else. It is a performance bargain at less than $40,000. But with a first-year build of around 6,600 cars, pricing competition is rampant.

Many dealership markups are ridiculous. Reports by GR Corolla shoppers have quoted “Limited Market Value” markups of $10,000 to $20,000 for a Core model. And the greed rises exponentially for the Circuit Edition and Morizo editions.

However, according to threads on the GR Corolla forum, there are dealers doing MSRP. “You just have to do the research and find them.”

Toyota does what it can to police those exorbitant dealer addendums, a spokesman said.

“We do our best to have a conversation with the dealer and try to get them to look long-term,” he said. “The GR Corolla will always be somewhat limited in volume, but over time enough supply will help alleviate the current dealer markup situation. “

Toyota has not announced its 2024 lineup yet, but it has said the GR Corolla Circuit Edition will continue for model year 2024. And my source said there would be future GR Corollas.

You’ll just have to do the research to find them.

A rear three quarter view of a SuperSonic red GR Corolla hatchback

The GR Corolla is a wicked little dart of marketing that promotes a more daring side of juggernaut automaker Toyota, known more for its mass-produced dependability.

2023 Toyota GR Corolla Core Specifications

Body style: compact, 5-door, 5-seat AWD hatchback

Engine: 300-hp, turbocharged direct and port injection, 1.6-liter 3-cylinder with rev-matching downshifts; 273 lb.-ft. from 3,000-5,500 rpm

Compression ratio: 10.5:1

Max boost pressure: 25.2 PSI (Core Grade and Circuit Edition); 26.3 PSI (Morizo Edition)

Transmission: 6-speed manual with rev-matching downshifts

GR-FOUR AWD: 3 driver-selectable torque-split settings, front-to-rear: Street 60/40, Touring 30:70), Track 50/50

Differential type: Open (Core Grade); front and rear Torsen limited-slip differentials Circuit Edition and Morizo

0-60 mph acceleration, manufacturer estimated: 4.99 seconds (Core and Circuit Edition); 4.92-sec. (Morizo Edition)

Top speed: 142.9 mph

Fuel economy: 21/28/24 mpg city/hwy/combined; premium fuel required

CHASSIS HARDWARE

Suspension: MacPherson-type struts front, rear double wishbone-type multilink with stabilizer bars front and rear, 26.5mm front, 24mm rear.

Brakes, all models: 14-inch ventilated front discs with 4-piston calipers; 11.7-inch rear ventilated discs with 2-piston calipers.

Wheels: 18-inch cast alloy gloss black 15 spoke, Core Grade and
Circuit Edition; 18-inch, 10-spoke forged alloy wheels in a matte black finish, Morizo Edition.

Tires: 18-inch 235/40R Michelin Pilot Sport 4, Core Grade and Circuit Edition; 245/40R Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2, Morizo Edition.

Track width, front/rear: 62.6 inches, Core and Circuit Edition; 62.6/63.7 inches, Morizo Edition.

Curb weights: 3,252 pounds Core; 3,262 lbs. with dual limited-slip diffs

Coefficient of drag: 0.35