2023 Genesis GV70

Feature-Packed Trims. Despite its value pricing, the GV70 has more standard features than most competitors. The base 2.5T trim starts things off with a 14.5-inch touchscreen, an eight-inch digital instrument cluster, a wireless charging pad, nine audio speakers, and a fingerprint authentication system.

While base trims from competitors feel bare, the GV60 comes with so much in the way of standard equipment that it’s hard to justify upgrading to a higher trim. There’s no other way to put it, the GV60 comes with a class-leading list of standard features.

Top trims feel downright opulent with tri-zone climate control, heated rear seats, sound-reducing windows, leather upholstery, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 16-speaker Lexicon audio system.

Enjoyable, But Plenty Comfortable. The GV70’s punchy turbocharged engines, sporty handling, and responsive inputs result in an enjoyable compact SUV. It may not offer the same performance as the Porsche Macan, but it’s still entertaining to take on windy roads.

For drivers with no plans on taking their GV70 out on a joy ride, the compact SUV manages to strike a fine balance between being comfortable and compliant. The SUV’s cabin is also an incredibly nice place for a long drive. The GV70 has cozy seats that offer a large amount of adjustability at the front and recline in the back. Higher trim levels offer heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats that help the miles melt away.

The GV70’s interior is incredibly luxurious. The compact SUV features premium materials, an exquisite design, and excellent fit and finish. The cabin is also remarkably quiet, especially with higher trim levels that have sound-reducing windows. If there is a downside to the GV70, it's space in the rear seats. Passengers get 37.2 inches of rear legroom and 39.1 inches of rear headroom. That’s not particularly spacious.

Cargo capacity is competitive for the segment. The GV70 has 28.9 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats in place, which is a great figure for the segment. Folding the rear seats down opens cargo space up to 56.9 cubic feet – an average figure for a compact SUV.

Gorgeous Styling. Genesis has quickly become a standout automaker for its beautifully designed vehicles. The compact SUV features a chic exterior design with split headlights, a large shield-shaped grille, and deep cutouts in the front fascia. Along the side, the GV70s sweeping roofline, thick C-pillar, and sloping D-pillar create stirring lines. The rear end of the GV70 has oval exhaust outlets that are vertically oriented, split taillights, and a rounded liftgate.

While the exterior design of the GV70 is sure to turn heads, the interior is somehow even more impressive. The cabin has a unique dashboard design with design elements that are inspired by aeronautics. The two-prong steering wheel, oval trim piece that encompasses the HVAC controls, and wraparound vents on the dash are standout design elements.

Tricky-To-Use Tech. Every GV70 comes with a wide 14.5-inch touchscreen that’s visually impressive. It’s a low, but wide screen that features gorgeous graphics. The way it’s placed in the dashboard makes it hard for the driver to reach, but Genesis includes a rotary knob controller for improved usability.

Unfortunately, the rotary knob is placed next to a gear selector that’s also a rotary knob. So, drivers will find themselves reaching for the wrong knob, which can be alarming when the vehicle is in motion.

Beyond the odd placement of the click-wheel controller, the infotainment system’s layout can be confusing. It includes eight titles on the main page that lead to a host of submenus, which is an awkward arrangement. It takes some time to get used to and could be far more streamlined.

The GV70 is also missing wireless smartphone compatibility. It’s an odd omission and one that puts the GV70 in the minority in the segment.

Final Thoughts. If brand recognition isn’t a must-have, the 2023 Genesis GV70 is a standout in the segment. It’s one of the best SUVs available in the compact class thanks to its stylish design, engaging handling, peppy turbocharged engines, high-tech features, and upscale interior. If there’s anything to point at as being subpar, the GV70’s rear seats are tight for the class and wireless smartphone compatibility is missing. In other words, the GV70 is an excellent SUV.

The BMW X3 is just as well-rounded as the GV70. It has athletic handling, powerful engines, good fuel economy figures, a high-tech infotainment system, and an upscale interior.

For consumers looking for something that isn’t from Germany, there’s the Volvo XC60. It has sleek styling, efficient four-cylinder engines, a high-end cabin, and incredibly comfortable seats. The XC60 isn’t sporty, but it’s a pleasant luxury SUV that will keep the entire family safe.

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