When the world was first introduced to the all new Genesis G80 a few months ago, it (along with the GV80) signified a radical departure for the brand in terms of design. But left out of the shuffle was the Genesis G70 which debuted just before the brand formally pushed forward with their new design theme. The upstart luxury contender was keen on righting this wrong, and has formally introduced the 2022 Genesis G70.
As expected, the second generation G70 adopts the G80’s front fascia design, and that helps create a more unified and aggressive face. That’s enhanced by the two tier headlights which are called “Quad Lamps” in Genesis speak. The front grille still retains the Genesis crest shape, but it has been reworked, and now falls more in sync with the G80 and the G90. The side profile now features two eye catching character lines, and they not only help highlight the muscular curves that are infused into the design, but also serve to help the eye see the revised air extractors and the redesigned wheels that are now part of the package. The rear fascia is crisp, and the tailights echo the Quad Lamps up front, with the lenses here adopting a similar two tier design.
The interior of the new G70 still has a driver centric cabin, but Genesis designers have now added more technology and connectivity features to help the model have a fighting chance against segment stalwarts like the BMW 3-Series, Audi A4, and the Mercedes C-Class. A new 10.25 inch infotainment system is prominently positioned on the dashboard, and serves as a very potent conversation starter once occupants have a chance to nestle into the reworked leather seats. The system features a UI system that is exclusive to Genesis, and can support over the air updates and so much more. With current smartphone designs rapidly becoming bigger over the past few years, Genesis designers have wisely increased the size of the charging pad to help better accommodate them.
Genesis chose to keep the performance side of the equation to itself, but it’s no secret that the G70 is pitching its slow selling manual gearbox option in the near future, and we suspect that the basic engine lineup from the old model will be carried over here to the second generation G70. However, look for engineers to tinker with some of the finer things slightly to help squeeze more power out of the base four cylinder as well as the optional V6. The loss of the manual will certainly sting some analog focused luxury car buyers, but the automatic should more than make up for any perceived slack, especially when the G70 has the opportunity to show its moves on the right section of road or track.
As is the case with new Genesis offerings (as well as those from Hyundai) South Korea will get first dibs, with the model launching on the peninsula next month. As for the U.S. market, look for the first examples to perhaps make there way here early next year, with the model perhaps appearing as an early 2022 offering. We look forward to hearing more on the 2022 Genesis soon, especially more extensive information on the full capabilities of the UI system, as well as any surprises that might be lurking under the hood.
Carl Malek has been an automotive journalist for over 10 years. First starting out as a freelance photographer before making the transition to writing during college, his work has appeared on numerous automotive forums as well as websites such as Autoshopper.com.
Carl is also a big fan of British vehicles with the bulk of his devotion going to the Morgan Motor Company as well as offerings from Lotus, MG, and Caterham. When he is not writing about automobiles, Carl enjoys spending time with his family and friends in the Metro Detroit area, as well as spending time with his adorable pets.