2026 Genesis GV70 Advantages and Disadvantages Assessment: It Must Be Exhausting to Be This Great

      Jerry Perez

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      We have previously reviewed this compact luxury SUV, and it has consistently performed exceptionally well, earning high marks each time. The 2026 Genesis GV70 I tested recently follows this pattern. However, during my evaluation, I encountered enough situations where a couple of less favorable aspects came to light.

      Nonetheless, these issues were infrequent and, to some extent, quite specialized, meaning they are unlikely to concern the average buyer.

      Jerry Perez

      Cons

      The infotainment controls can be somewhat unwieldy, and, similar to the GV80, the placement of the two large knobs is perplexing. I often found myself using the upper knob to change gears and the shifter to select options on the infotainment display.

      The Sport+ driving mode feels excessive; it seems overly artificial, especially the steering weight and enhanced engine sounds.

      When driven aggressively on winding roads, the GV70’s overall handling deteriorates, exposing a lack of composure and balance. (I should note that this type of driving goes beyond what the car is designed for, so it’s not a major drawback.)

      The Start/Stop feature can feel somewhat abrupt at times, and the initial noise that enters the cabin isn’t very pleasant.

      At $72,000, my tester's price tag is quite high.

      Genesis

      Pros

      Stunning interior design. It both looks and feels fantastic.

      Superb ride quality in most conditions. Comfortable but not excessively so, unlike the GV80. Well-balanced.

      The drivetrain is adaptable; it can provide an efficient, relaxed driving experience when desired and something more spirited when needed.

      Even though its design is older (from 2021), the GV70 still appears sporty, luxurious, and distinctive.

      Moreover, choosing a GV70 instead of the typical German SUV earns you extra points.

      There's an overall sense that everything both inside and outside the GV70 is purposeful and not merely decorative or aimed at conveying luxury. The vehicle has a certain “vibe” that's difficult to quantify but is definitely felt.

      Jerry Perez

      Verdict

      Overall, the staff at The Drive is running low on new things to say about Genesis vehicles. Regardless of the author, the model driven, or the testing conditions, nearly every review can be distilled to this: “Incredible design, enjoyable driving experience, a few quirky elements, but Genesis is outpacing the Germans.”

      Yep, this one is no exception, my friend.

      Genesis provided The Drive with a four-day loan of this vehicle to facilitate this review.

      2026 Genesis GV70 Specs

      Base Price (Sport Prestige AWD): $50,435 ($72,225)

      Powertrain: 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 | 8-speed automatic | all-wheel drive

      Horsepower: 375

      Torque: 391 lb-ft

      Seating Capacity: 5

      Curb Weight: 4,738 pounds

      Towing Capacity: 3,500 pounds

      Cargo Volume: 28.9 cubic feet behind the second row | 56.9 cubic feet behind the first row

      Ground Clearance: 7.3 inches

      EPA Fuel Economy: 18 mpg city | 25 highway | 21 combined

      Score: 8/10

      Contact the author at jerry@thedrive.com