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

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)

Table of Contents

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 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 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” 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 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 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.

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.

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