GENESIS HAVE SECURED THEIR STATUS AS REAL CONTENDERS IN THE LUXURY SPORT SEDAN SEGMENT.
As recently as 2017, South Korean car giant, Hyundai Motor Group, launched the Genesis brand, with its first standalone model, the G90. Created to go head-to-head with already highly successful luxury car brands including Mercedes, BMW and Lexus, its creators had high hopes for this new label. Today, Genesis seems to have established itself as a real contender, already having produced popular SUVs like the GV70 and GV80, luxury sedans including the G80, along with sports sedans such as the G70, and even an all-electric crossover in the form of the GV60.
This month, thanks to the team at Genesis Bahrain, OHLALA magazine got the opportunity to thoroughly inspect, as well as to test drive, the 2022 Genesis G70 Sport.
EXTERIOR
Always excited to experience something new, we were eager to lay eyes on the new G70. With its athletic lines and robust stance, this vehicle gives a first impression of both elegance and power. Even when turned off, this car looks like it’s mere moments away from surging forward.
The first striking exterior feature to capture our attention was the chrome Crest Grille. Inspired by the Genesis emblem, the Crest Grille, along with the double lines of the LED Quad Lamps, set the tone for the rest of this beautifully crafted vehicle; the Genesis badge itself sitting like a jewel in front of the elongated hood.
At the flanks, the bold lines of the G70 extend effortlessly from front to rear. Underscoring the short overhangs are 19- inch alloy wheels, complete with G-Matrix rims and red brake callipers. New air vents, designed for aero efficiency, work with the overall aerodynamic nature of the exterior design, to reduce wind resistance. A low-slung roof featuring a wide sunroof contributes to the stylish look of this sporty sedan.
At the back end, LED Quad Lamps, a fashionable rear diffuser and dual exhaust tips coated in black chrome, finish of the external design in style. The Genesis name is also proudly displayed on the boot lid in large silver text, letting everyone know who just left them behind.
“This beast of a machine can surge from 0-100km/h in under five seconds and produces a top speed of almost 270km/h.”
INTERIOR
Turning our attention to the interior, we were welcomed by the distinctive red, multi-adjustable, sport-styled seating of the driver-orientated cabin. The stunning interior of the G70 is available in various colours, allowing owners to put their personal stamp on the design.
The flawlessly crafted steering wheel, complete with system controls, felt perfect in hand, increasing our desire to get out onto the road. Upmarket materials, garnishes and finishes have been used throughout the G70, solidifying the model’s deluxe status. Our favourite design detail would have to be the swirl patterns located on the aluminium trims of the metal floor pedals.
Space wise, there is plenty of leg, head and shoulder room in the front, with the back offering slightly tighter quarters for passengers. However, the ergonomic seat design provides a comfortable ride nonetheless. Storage wise, the G70’s boot offers 10.5cu.ft of space, enough to fit two medium suitcases. This area is greatly increased with the 60/40 split, rear seating folded flat.
TECHNOLOGY
The G70’s updated infotainment system now features a 10.25-inch, highdefinition touchscreen display, that protrudes from the otherwise smooth surface of the dashboard. The display can be split to show several features simultaneously, including GPS, media and weather.
This infotainment system is not only compatible with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, but automatically updates, ensuring your version has the very latest multimedia software and map information.
Additional features include a 12.3-inch 3D Cluster, a built-in wireless charging pad, a head-up display and an exceptional sound system boasting 15 Lexicon speakers and Quantum Logic Surround technology.
PERFORMANCE
Making our way out onto the roads, we could instantly feel the car’s powertrain urging us to press down on the pedal. The G70 Sport houses a 3.3-litre, V6 Twin-Turbo, petrol engine that produces up to 365hp, and 376lb-ft of torque. Coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission, this beast of a machine can surge from 0-100km/h in under five seconds and produces a top speed of almost 270km/h.
Not only did we find the G70 Sport to be uber responsive and full of power, it also proved to be one smooth ride. With four driving modes to choose from, namely Comfort, Eco, Sport, and Sport+, this all-wheel drive vehicle will handle everything from a school drop to a competitive lap around a racetrack. A combination of precise steering, great traction control, a finely tuned suspension and the Brembo Braking System, all ensured we were always in complete control of the driving experience. In truth, it was hard not to enjoy the envious glances of other motorists.
SAFETY & DRIVER ASSISTANCE FEATURES
Safety and assistance wise, Genesis have made sure to include a vast array of features, specifically designed to ensure your safety. These include, but are not limited to, forward-collision warning, auto emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, Electronic Stability Control, a 10-airbag system and so much more.
One feature we have to give special mention to, as this was the very first time we experienced this technology, is the novel Blind-Spot View Monitor. When you signal left to change lanes, the rev counter on the instrument cluster turns into a screen, providing a clear view of your left side blind spot. The same happens when signalling right. This works through the use of the surround view cameras located on the bottom of the side mirrors.
OUR VERDICT
The Genesis G70 Sport is an exceptional luxury motor vehicle. It is not only aesthetically pleasing, but offers comfort, power, precision and impressive technology.
For more information or to book a test drive of your own, please call Genesis Bahrain on 1712 1121.
@genesis_bahrain