2024 Genesis G70 Hands-on Preview: Better as Standard
Genesis is tweaking its small sedan with more tech and a powerful base engine.
Genesis started as a sedan company. The Korean luxury brand kicked off with the G80 and G90, fleshing out the lineup with the G70 sport sedan for 2019. Shortly after the SUVs followed, and it should come as no surprise they now make up a huge chunk of sales. But the G70 continues to sell in consistent numbers in both Canada and the US, and for 2024, Genesis is sweetening the deal with a handful of choice upgrades.
Ahead of the ’24 G70’s launch and first drive, we spent a few minutes poking around the new model. Here’s what stands out in Genesis’ 3 Series fighter:
New 300-horsepower standard engine
It was only a matter of time before the G70 got the corporate 2.5-liter turbo four. We were frankly surprised it didn’t during the ’22 facelift, especially considering the related Kia Stinger did. The Kia bows out for 2024—so maybe there’s a surplus. Either way, buyers can now benefit from a standard 300-horsepower engine, the most powerful base engine in the segment. The base package also picks up standard Genesis-branded Brembo brakes, a dual exhaust, and 19-inch alloy wheels.
The optional V6 continues on, and not the 3.5-liter found in every other Genesis, but the smaller 3.3, topping out at 368 horsepower with the available sport exhaust. Both engines pair to an eight-speed automatic transmission; rear- and all-wheel drive flavors are available in the US, while Canada sticks to the latter.
Mechanically, the only other changes involve tweaking the suspension to handle the increased mass of the larger engine. Genesis did not provide updated curb weights at our walkaround.
Same styling, tweaked details
Keen-eyed folks will have a hard time telling the ’24 G70 apart from older models. The design is the same as before, keeping the twin line motif strong, with two new exterior colors to help it pop: Vatna Grey and Kawah Blue. A redesigned logo employs a two-dimensional look, a common change in today’s digital world. Up at the top of the trim grades, the 3.3T Sport trim gains a new wheel design, also incorporating both the Two-Line and G-Matrix design cues of the brand.
Cabin tech improvements
If you’re like us, you’re probably wary of any mention of “haptic feedback climate controls.” They’re coming to the G70 for 2024, but there are two reasons we’re okay with them. For starters, Genesis hasn’t gone full digital here, keeping handy dials for the actual temperature controls. Secondly, the touch screen itself is pretty simple, so precision isn’t as crucial as you might expect. It’s a very similar setup to the one in the GV70.
Other tech upgrades include an available 12.3-inch 3D instrument cluster, more USB ports (including a pair of C variants in the back seat), and the addition of an intelligent speed limit assist for Highway Drive Assist. You’ll still find a combination of soft-touch plastics, leather—optionally quilted and of the Nappa variety—and metallic trim in the cozy cabin.
Safety improvements come by way of newly standard rear seat side airbags, bringing the total to 10.
In Canada, the 2024 G70 will also mark the debut of the Digital Key feature for Genesis. An earlier version of the system was available in the US, but Canada wanted to wait until it was available for all major smartphone platforms. Related to that, a revamped Genesis Connected Services shows up with G70, allowing owners to check on numerous aspects of the car via the dedicated app.
Price bump
The 2024 Genesis G70 will start at $42,750 in the US for a 2.5T RWD Standard model, including destination. The most affordable way into the 3.3T is the $51,200 Sport Advanced model. Adding AWD is a $2,100 upgrade. In Canada, Genesis’ all-in-one pricing puts the G70 2.5T Advanced AWD at $53,000; the best-selling 3.3T Sport rings up at $64,000. Orders are open for the 2024 models in both markets.
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Kyle began his automotive obsession before he even started school, courtesy of a remote control Porsche and various LEGO sets. He later studied advertising and graphic design at Humber College, which led him to writing about cars (both real and digital). He is now a proud member of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC), where he was the Journalist of the Year runner-up for 2021.
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Genesis, originally a sedan-centric brand, continues to redefine expectations with the 2024 G70. Here are the key highlights:
The 2024 Genesis G70 not only maintains its legacy as a formidable 3 Series competitor but also elevates the driving experience with performance, style, and cutting-edge technology. For more details and updates, visit motowheeler.com.