Review: The 2024 Genesis G70 2.5T isn’t the top dog, but it’s so good you won’t care

The 2024 Genesis G70, with its second-tier 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, is yet another impressive entry from Hyundai’s luxury brand. The sports sedan delivers on so many levels, including style, performance and value, that it makes a serious case for itself in the competitive compact luxury sedan market. 

Sure, it may not have the brand’s robust 3.3-liter turbocharged V6 and all of its 365 horsepower, but the lesser sibling's motor is nothing to scoff at. It’s still a grand time behind the wheel. Here’s what makes the G70 stand out — and a few areas where it could use some touch-ups.

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Photo courtesy Genesis News USA

The design is sophisticated and sporty

As with the other Genesis models we’ve reviewed on KSL Cars, the G70 continues the brand’s reputation for thoughtful, unique design. The Genesis models look like nothing else on the road. The G70 features the brand’s signature grille, a quad-LED headlight setup and aerospace design elements which all look very cool, classy and athletic.

The same goes for the interior. Inside, the G70 impresses yet again with premium materials and thoughtful design choices throughout. It’s refreshingly minimalist, but in a good way that’s easy to use. The whole interior gives off an intuitive vibe, and it’s very easy to jump in and get on your way without spending too much time acquainting yourself with it.

With its use of leather, soft touch materials and metal accents, the cabin feels well put together and a cut above what you’d expect for its $49,000 price point. 

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Its performance is athletic and engaging

The 2024 G70 offers two motors. The 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder, as our tester was equipped, and an optional 3.3-liter turbocharged V6. The 2.5-liter is no slouch. It produces 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque and is paired with a whip-quick 8-speed automatic transmission.

While we loved the 3.3-liter motor in our test from a few years ago, the 2.5-liter was still plenty of fun and gave the G70 a lighter and slightly more agile demeanor. The 3.3-liter, while a wonderful bonus, truly isn’t necessary for this excellent sedan.

On the road, the G70’s handling is athletic and precise, thanks to a well-tuned suspension that keeps it balanced, even on rough roads and tight corners. The 2.5T model misses out on the adaptive suspension, but we honestly didn’t miss it. 

The G70 felt comfortable and compliant in all the driving scenarios we tried. Whether cruising on the highway or carving up Big Cottonwood Canyon, the G70 feels engaged and responsive and is always a pleasure to drive. 

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Photo courtesy Genesis News USA

The tech is easy to use

The 2024 G70's tech features are comprehensive and user-friendly. Our tester included the $4,200 Sport Prestige package, and it was well worth it. Some of the highlights include a 12-speaker Lexicon stereo, an 8-inch digital gauge cluster with wonderful analog gauges, a 10.25-inch infotainment screen, highway driving assist and all the other safety features you’d expect. 

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also present, but they aren’t wireless, which is surprising and disappointing given the other luxury features included. 

The interior is comfortable and cozy, but limited

The Sport Prestige package includes genuine leather seats, heated and ventilated front seats and other comfort features that make an already nice place to spend time even better. The front seats are supportive and well padded and are easy to settle into for short and long drives.

The rear seat space, however, is surprisingly cramped. Even our small children found it to be tight, with limited legroom and room to stretch out. Trunk space is also on the smaller side, which could be an issue for someone looking for a vehicle with a lot of versatility. 

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Photo courtesy Genesis News USA

It’s a good value

When it comes to compact sports sedans, there are some pretty well-established entries that are very compelling. However, where the G70 excels is in its value — it’s about $6,000 less than some of the similarly equipped competition. Genesis also offers a compelling 5-year, 60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 10-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty, which adds peace of mind. 

Final thoughts

The 2024 Genesis G70 is a compelling entry in the compact luxury sports sedan segment. It’s a perfect fit for those who want a more unique, intentional choice rather than the standard sports sedan fare. Along with some unique, eye-catching styling, the G70 offers engaging, playful performance, a high-end interior and modern technology all at a competitive price. 

While it may not be the most practical option, given the tight backseat and small trunk, the G70 shines as an excellent alternative to the more familiar luxury sedans.

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Highs

• Striking, unique design inside and out

• High-quality interior materials

• Engaging performance, agile and direct handling

• A good value with a long warranty and feature packed trims

Lows

• The rear seat and trunk space are tight

• No wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto

Photo courtesy Genesis News USA

FAQs

Is the G70 fun to drive?

Yes. It’s light on its feet and fun to drive, whether you're getting groceries, commuting to work or carving up a canyon. 

Is it good for families? 

Not really. The rear seat is small, and there isn’t much trunk or storage space. 

Who is the G70 for? 

The G70 is perfect for buyers wanting a stylish, sporty, alternative choice to the usual sports sedan suspects. The 3.3-liter engine, while certainly compelling, isn’t necessary to enjoy all that the G70 has to offer. The 2.5-liter engine is plenty of fun and will save you about $4,000.

* KSL Cars does not endorse any vehicles. The views or opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer and do not reflect the views or opinions of KSL.com or its employees.