The Genesis G70 contributes to the compact luxury sedan segment, showcasing impressive handling, exceptional craftsmanship, and cutting-edge technology. Since its introduction, the G70 has played a pivotal role in establishing the Genesis brand as a formidable contender against well-established German and Japanese luxury automotive manufacturers. This article includes everything you need to know about the Genesis G70 from its evolution to the all-new 2026 model.
Who makes Genesis G70?
The Genesis G70 is manufactured by Genesis, the luxury vehicle division of Hyundai Motor Company. Genesis was created to compete in the premium segment, offering vehicles that combine luxury, performance, and value. The G70 is arguably the flagship compact sedan in this strategy. The design and development of the G70 reflect Hyundai’s commitment to challenging traditional premium brands while offering strong value and performance.
Genesis G70 Evolution From Past to Present
The Genesis G70 has quickly evolved from a newcomer in the luxury sports sedan market into a respected benchmark of performance, design, and refinement. Here’s a year-by-year evolution of the G70:
Birth and Early Years: 2017-2019 Genesis G70
The Genesis G70 launched in 2017 as a compact sedan aimed at competing with European rivals. Built on the M2 platform, it offered a choice between a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder and a 3.3L twin-turbo V6, combining sporty handling with luxury features.
First Refresh: 2020-2022 Genesis G70
In 2020, the Genesis G70 received its first facelift, featuring redesigned bumpers, an updated grille, and new lighting elements. Interior upgrades included a larger infotainment screen, refined trim levels, and optional all-wheel drive for select models. Sport-oriented variants were equipped with sharper driving dynamics and enhanced performance features.
Mid-Cycle Updates: 2023 Genesis G70
The 2023 Genesis G70 received considerable improvements, including a new 2.5L turbocharged engine, Brembo brakes on all trim levels, and updated interior materials. The design became sleeker and more modern, with Genesis' distinctive crest grille and enhanced LED lighting. These upgrades cemented the G70's reputation as a sporty, premium luxury sedan.
Current Status and Road Ahead: 2024–2025 Genesis G70
The G70 remains in production, with slight updates that include new color options, premium features, and enhanced ergonomics. Despite growing competition from SUVs and newer luxury sedans, the sedan remains an attractive option for those seeking engaging driving experiences, elegant design, and sporty luxury in a compact form.
When will the 2026 Genesis G70 be available?
The 2026 Genesis G70 began appearing in late 2025 following its reveal ahead of the Los Angeles Auto Show. Dealers in North America have already started listing 2026 units, indicating that availability is rolling out now, depending on the region and inventory. It enters the market as a carry-over model with targeted updates rather than a full redesign.
What’s New for the 2026 Genesis G70?
The 2026 model brings a series of refinements rather than radical changes. A new exterior color, Capri Blue, updates the palette, while refreshed wheel designs appear on 2.5T Prestige trims. The biggest addition is the “Graphite” special edition, featuring dark-chrome trim, blacked-out accents, a sport-tuned suspension lowered by approximately 10 mm, and unique 19-inch wheels. The interior features a reshuffling of available color schemes, with beige replacing some previously available sport themes, and certain premium trims, such as Nappa leather, becoming more limited. Convenience is enhanced with a standard heated steering wheel on the 2.5T AWD and the expanded availability of a 360-degree surround-view camera.
2026 Genesis G70 Engine and Performance
The Genesis G70 continues with its established powertrains. The 2.5-liter turbo-four engine produces approximately 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and available in rear-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive. The twin-turbo 3.3-liter V6 remains the more performance-oriented choice, especially in upper trims and the new Graphite edition. The Graphite’s electronically controlled suspension is lowered, sharpening turn-in and stability, and giving the 2026 lineup its most dynamic factory setting.
2026 Genesis G70 Fuel Efficiency
Fuel-economy ratings remain consistent with the outgoing model. The 2.5T rear-wheel drive configuration returns approximately 21 mpg in the city, 29 mpg on the highway, and 24 mpg combined, with AWD variants slightly lower. The fuel tank remains at approximately 15.8 gallons, maintaining a similar range to recent model years.
2026 Genesis G70 Interior Design and Tech
The 2026 Genesis G70 interior blends familiar comfort with a few targeted upgrades. Most trims retain leatherette seating, dual-zone climate control, and clean metal-accented surfaces, while higher trims introduce features like a 12.3-inch fully digital gauge cluster for a more contemporary look. Smartphone integration, premium audio, and an updated infotainment interface remain standard, supported by conveniences such as a heated steering wheel on AWD models and improved access to the 360-degree camera system.
The new “Graphite” special edition enhances the cabin further with Nappa leather, contrasting stitching, and a microfiber headliner, giving the 2026 model a sharper and more tailored interior feel without departing from its sporty-luxury character.
2026 Genesis G70 Exterior Design
The 2026 Genesis G70's exterior design is similar to previous versions, featuring a crest grille and a quad-lamp lighting signature. The addition of Capri Blue refreshes the color palette, while revised wheels improve the quality stance of upper grades. The Graphite special version has a stealthier appearance, with dark chrome details, black brake calipers, and lowered suspension, giving the 2026 G70 its most aggressive factory styling yet.
2026 Genesis G70 Trim Levels and Pricing
The 2026 Genesis G70 lineup showcases its personality across six trim levels, each building upon the one before it with added capability or luxury. Here are the key features of the 2026 Genesis G70 trim levels:
2026 Genesis G70 2.5T RWD
The 2.5T RWD opens the lineup with a 300-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and classic rear-wheel-drive balance. It includes 19-inch wheels, leatherette seating, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, a modern infotainment system, and a complete suite of driver-assist safety features. This trim delivers strong value, offering a blend of performance and everyday comfort.
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2026 Genesis G70 2.5T RWD Price: Starts at $43,450
2026 Genesis G70 2.5T AWD
The 2.5T AWD mirrors the equipment of the base RWD model but adds all-wheel drive for improved handling and traction in rain, snow, or uneven road conditions. It maintains the same power output and interior appointments, offering better year-round confidence without sacrificing comfort or efficiency.
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2026 Genesis G70 2.5T AWD Price: Starts at $45,550
2026 Genesis G70 2.5T PRESTIGE RWD
The 2.5T Prestige RWD elevates the interior with genuine leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, upgraded cabin materials, and additional convenience technologies. A surround-view monitor and blind-spot-view camera enhance visibility, while power-folding mirrors and premium extras add a more upscale feel to the car. It’s the luxury-focused option for those who prefer rear-wheel drive.
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2026 Genesis G70 2.5T PRESTIGE RWD Price: Starts at $48,450
2026 Genesis G70 2.5T PRESTIGE AWD
This trim combines the Prestige package’s luxury upgrades with the confidence of all-wheel drive. Drivers receive full leather seating, ventilated front seats, advanced camera systems, and premium finishes, while also benefiting from improved traction and stability in all seasons.
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2026 Genesis G70 2.5T PRESTIGE AWD Price: Starts at $50,450
2026 Genesis G70 3.3T PRESTIGE RWD
Stepping into the 3.3T Prestige RWD unlocks the twin-turbo V6, producing more than 365 horsepower for significantly stronger acceleration. This trim adds performance-oriented touches along with luxury upgrades such as a head-up display, power-bolstering seats with cushion extension, sport-focused wheels, and an overall more athletic driving character.
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2026 Genesis G70 3.3T PRESTIGE RWD Price: Starts at $53,600
2026 Genesis G70 3.3T PRESTIGE AWD
The top-tier 3.3T Prestige AWD blends the full power of the V6 engine with all-wheel-drive capability. It includes every luxury and performance enhancement offered in the G70 lineup, making it the most complete and versatile version. With premium seating, advanced technology, a head-up display, and four-season traction, this model is designed for drivers who seek maximum capability and comfort.
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2026 Genesis G70 3.3T PRESTIGE AWD Price: Starts at $55,600
How to Elevate Genesis G70 Performance with Pedal Commander®?
Upgrading your Genesis G70 with a Pedal Commander® is one of the quickest ways to unlock sharper throttle response and a more engaging driving feel without making any permanent modifications. How? Pedal Commander® works by refining the electronic signals between the accelerator pedal and the throttle body, allowing the engine to respond instantly to driver input. Installation is fast and hassle-free; just unplug your throttle pedal harness, plug in the Pedal Commander® unit (the whole job takes about 15 minutes), and you're ready to go, no tools, wiring, or warranty risk involved.
Furthermore, Pedal Commander® offers four preset modes: Eco, City, Sport, and Sport+, each with nine adjustable sensitivity levels, delivering a total of 36 fine-tuning settings. Whether you're seeking better fuel economy (Eco mode can boost efficiency by up to 20%) or a more dynamic punch off the line (Sport+ unleashes maximum throttle response), Pedal Commander® lets you dial in the perfect gas pedal feel.
Additionally, Pedal Commander® surpasses performance with its Anti-Theft feature. When activated, this feature disables the gas pedal, preventing unauthorized use of your vehicle. Enjoy the Anti-Theft feature for the first 14 days FOR FREE, then easily subscribe through the Pedal Commander® mobile app and choose from two subscription plans: $0.99 per month or $9.99 per year, cheaper than a gas station snack!
