Test Driving the 2026 Genesis GV70 3.5T Sport: My Honest Take

If you look back five years, the concept of a spin-off fromHyundaiwould have seemed absurd to executives in Stuttgart and Munich. Yet here we are. TheGenesisGV70 made its entrance into the luxury compact SUV market in 2022 and has continued to excel, providing a car that feels like aBentley Bentayga and Porsche Macanhad an illegal love child, all for the cost of a mid-rangeLexusThe 2026 model I evaluated features a significant mid-cycle update. Typically, this involves a new bumper and a marginally bigger display. Genesis took it further by completely redesigning the interior technology, making the previous model seem almost outdated, and enhancing the exterior design to match its top-tier model, the G90.

Powertrain and Engineering: 7/10

Under the hood of the 3.5T Sport is a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine that goes against the trend of downsizing. Unlike rivals such as the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43, which have moved to a hybridized four-cylinder, Genesis remains committed to its approach. The engine generates 375 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 391 lb-ft of torque. In theory, this power is available across a wide range from 1,300 to 4,500 rpm due to the twin-turbo configuration. Power is transferred through an 8-speed torque-converter automatic transmission to an all-wheel-drive system. Below, the GV70 is built on a rear-biased RWD platform, offering nearly a 50/50 weight distribution. Front suspension features MacPherson struts, while the rear uses a multi-link setup, enhanced by the Electronically Controlled Suspension with Road Preview. This system uses a forward-facing camera to analyze the road, adjusting damping milliseconds before encountering a bump to keep the cabin isolated.

Driving Experience: 6/10

Start the V6, and it awakens with a smooth and far-off rumble. There's ample power available, and the GV70 truly feels quick when you accelerate for a highway pass. However, the manner in which power is delivered doesn't match that of the top models in its class. The 8-speed gearbox frequently exhibits sluggish shifts and can seem reluctant when pushed, lacking the intuitive response found in ZF units used by competitors. This leads to a power delivery that feels less consistent and somewhat disconnected compared to the more seamless performance of its rivals.

The steering is set up primarily for isolation, resulting in a lack of connection to the road. It focuses so much on comfort that it eliminates nearly all feedback, giving you very little awareness of what the front wheels are doing. The ride is quiet and smooth, managing uneven surfaces with ease, but the overall feel is overly sterile. It fails to involve the driver. Although it is a fast SUV, theMercedes-Benz GLC, BMW X3, and AudiQ5 models provide a higher degree of interaction and a unique personality that the Genesis does not have.

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Exterior Design and Characteristics: 8/10

Genesis' "Athletic Elegance" design approach is evident on the updated 2026 GV70. The cab-backward layout creates a long hood and short front overhang, reminiscent of traditional sports sedans. MLA (Micro Lens Array) headlights produce a bright, accurate beam, enabling slim, modern housings. At the back, split taillights incorporated into the bumper keep the appearance sleek. The Sport Prestige trim features 21-inch wheels that perfectly fit the fenders, while the dual exhaust pipes serve a practical purpose rather than just being for show. In total, the GV70 exudes a strong presence, making it stand out in a competitive market.

Interior, Technology, and Comfort: 8/10

Inside, the GV70 offers an interior that exceeds expectations for its cost. At the center is a 27-inch OLED widescreen display that provides smooth, vivid visuals with limitless contrast. The latest Connected Car Integrated Cockpit (ccIC) ensures menus are easy to navigate, and a rotary dial enables control without needing to touch the screen.

The materials are of high quality. The quilted Nappa leather, textured metal knobs, and available carbon fiber trim exude a luxurious feel. The steering wheel is sturdy and comfortable, enhancing the "Sport" experience. The main downside is the touch-sensitive climate controls, which trade some functionality for visual appeal.

Cost, Fuel Efficiency, and Usability: 7/10

The GV70 3.5T Sport Advanced has a starting price of approximately $64,415, whereas the fully equipped Sport Prestige model reaches up to $71,095. This is comparable to similarly outfitted BMW X3 M50 orPorscheThe Macan S, which can cost over $80,000, includes comparable features as standard in the Genesis.

Fuel efficiency isn't as strong. The EPA predicts 18 miles per gallon in the city and 24 on the highway; however, in actual driving conditions, particularly when driving more aggressively, city mileage may fall into the mid-teens. Practicality varies. The front seats offer ample space, but the back seats are tight, with restricted head and legroom because of the cab-forward layout. The cargo area is decent at 56.9 cubic feet when the seats are folded down, although the slanted rear window limits the space available for larger items.

Final Verdict: 7/10

The 2026 Genesis GV70 3.5T Sport showcases exceptional design and the illusion of high-end quality. The cabin gives the impression of being much more costly than its actual value, while the exterior exudes confidence with its striking appearance. We especially appreciate the interior improvements, featuring stylish orange stitching and a large, comfortable sports steering wheel. Nevertheless, it doesn't match the precise handling of the BMW X3 M50, which continues to set the standard for dynamic performance in this category. The GV70 must enhance its driving characteristics to be truly classified as a "sporty" SUV.