2026 Genesis G70 Review: Expert Insights, Pricing, and Trims
Don't count the Genesis G70 out just yet. As the compact luxury sedan that won our 2019 Car of the Year award nears the end of its first generation, Genesis makes minor updates to streamline the features on offer. Rivals to the 2026 Genesis G70 include the Tesla Model 3, Alfa Romeo Giulia, and BMW 3 Series. What's New
The 2026 G70 lineup sees some new content, but Genesis discontinues more features than it adds.
Basics Electronically controlled suspension discontinued
Power trunk no longer available on all trims
360-degree camera view standard on 3.3T models and available on 2.5T Prestige
Exterior Capri Blue replaces Tasman Blue and Burleigh Blue
Updated wheel design for 2.5T Prestige
Aluminum trim available on 2.5T Prestige
Interior Standard heated steering wheel on 2.5T AWD and above
Beige, Gray, and Sport interiors discontinued for 2.5T models
Nappa leather and microfiber suede headliner discontinued
Alloy pedals discontinued on 2.5T Prestige What We Think
Our 2019 Car of the Year returns for 2026, continuing its legacy of blending luxurious appointments with sporty driving dynamics. Although Genesis eliminates some features for the new model year, the 2026 G70 appears to remain a strong value proposition.
There are quicker offerings in the segment, but the 2026 Genesis G70's subjective pleasures rival longer-established automakers. Its powerful engines feel gutsy when pushed but exhibit a relaxed character while tootling around town or cruising on the highway. It excels as a luxury car, too, with excellent build quality and interior materials.
The 2026 Genesis G70 does have some weak aspects, though. Standard equipment goes well beyond the basics, but doesn't include the new tech features and larger displays offered on other models. The ride can get choppy, the second row isn't the roomiest, and trunk space is down compared to rivals. First introduced for 2019, the Genesis G70 is starting to show its age, as well.
Still, the G70 remains a compelling pick for those who love to drive but don't want to sacrifice comfort or convenience. We hope Genesis continues to offer enthusiast-friendly models when the G70's time is inevitably up. Top-Ranked Competitors: BMW 3 Series
Alfa Romeo Giulia
Mercedes-Benz C-Class MotorTrend Tested
Entry-level versions of the 2026 Genesis G70 carry over with a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine developing 300 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard, with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive available.
A rear-wheel-drive G70 takes 5.7 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph. All-wheel-drive models require 5.9 seconds. For perspective, the four-cylinder BMW 330i only takes 5.3–5.4 seconds with RWD or AWD.
An upgrade to the optional 3.3-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 engine producing 365 hp and 375 lb-ft of torque brings the G70's 0–60-mph time down to a mere 4.5 seconds. For comparison, the BMW M340i xDrive we tested needed just 3.8 seconds to hit 60 mph. MPGs and Range
We expect the 2026 Genesis G70 will log similar EPA ratings to the 2025 model. It's most efficient with the base 2.5-liter engine and rear-wheel drive, returning 21/29 mpg city/highway. With all-wheel drive, those figures fall slightly to 20/28 mpg. The competing 2025 BMW 330i is a paragon of efficiency at 28/35 mpg with RWD and 26/34 mpg with xDrive AWD.
With the larger 3.3-liter V-6, the G70's fuel economy takes a tumble. Rear-wheel-drive models return 17/25 mpg, and all-wheel-drive models are rated at 17/23 mpg. For comparison, the BMW M340i is only marginally less efficient than the 330i despite its much more powerful I-6 engine, rated at 27/33 mpg with rear-wheel drive and 26/33 mpg with all-wheel drive.
The G70 2.5T has the most range, at 379 miles. With all-wheel drive, that figure drops slightly to 363 miles. The BMW 3 Series has a lot more range—484 miles with RWD and 452 miles with AWD. With the 3.3-liter engine, the G70's numbers fall to 316 and 300 miles, respectively. Meanwhile, both of the M340i's drivetrain layouts are good for 452 miles of range. Safety Ratings and Features
For 2025, the Genesis G70 receives Good scores in all crashworthiness categories evaluated by IIHS. It also gets a top score in the headlights test. LATCH ease of use is rated Marginal, the second-lowest score.
Genesis equips the 2026 G70 with a robust suite of active safety features. We've found the driver assistance systems to be useful in our testing. Automatic high-beams
Front and rear automatic emergency braking
Side cross-traffic alert
Intersection collision avoidance
Blind-spot monitoring
Lane keeping assist
Adaptive cruise control Cargo Space and Interior Room
The 2026 Genesis G70's front row is roomy, but the second row feels tight. Cargo space is down compared to rivals. Technology
Infotainment
Genesis outfits every 2026 G70 with a standard 10.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with built-in navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Unlike other Genesis models with a single panel for all digital functions, the G70 still uses a second 8.0-inch display and semi-analog instrument cluster. A head-up display is available.
The 2026 Genesis G70's cabin has a total of four USB-C ports. Only higher trims come equipped with a wireless charging pad.
Sound System
The G70's base sound system is a six-speaker arrangement. A 15-speaker setup from Lexicon is also available.
Available Upgrades Heated steering wheel
Ventilated front seats
Power-folding side mirrors with Genesis logo puddle lamps Value
Standard Features
Genesis equips the 2026 G70 with a standard 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and rear-wheel drive. The sport sedan rides on 19-inch wheels and a fully independent suspension. All models use Brembo brakes.
Inside the cabin, the G70 features standard leatherette upholstery with heated front seats. All models have a proximity key and pushbutton start. There's an 8.0-inch gauge cluster display alongside an analog gauge, a 10.3-inch infotainment display, and four USB-C ports.
Safety features include forward collision avoidance assist, lane keeping assist, lane following assist, driver attention warning, blind-spot collision warning, rear cross-traffic collision avoidance assist, a rearview camera, safe exit warning, and a rear occupant alert.
Recommended Trim
Genesis offers the 2026 G70 in eight trims: 2.5T RWD
2.5T AWD
2.5T Sport Prestige RWD
2.5T Sport Prestige AWD
3.3T Sport Advanced RWD
3.3T Sport Advanced AWD
3.3T Sport Prestige RWD
3.3T Sport Prestige AWD
Models with the 3.3-liter engine are compact rockets, but the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder still has plenty of grunt. For that reason, we'd go for rear-drive Sport Prestige trim to get the leather seats, sunroof, and ventilated front seats.
Pricing for the G70 should start around $44,000 and reach nearly $60,000 for the 3.3T Sport Prestige AWD model. The 2026 Genesis G70 2.5T Sport Prestige RWD is our goldilocks, stickering for less than $50,000. The Sportiest 2026 Genesis G70
All Genesis G70s are fun to drive, but the most enthusiast-oriented are the pair of 3.3T Sport Prestige models, which receive a limited-slip differential, Brembo brakes, and a variable exhaust system. In prior years, Genesis equipped electronically controlled suspension, but that feature has been discontinued for 2026 in favor of a passive setup.
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Motor Trend
a day ago
- Motor Trend
2026 Genesis G70 Review: Expert Insights, Pricing, and Trims
Don't count the Genesis G70 out just yet. As the compact luxury sedan that won our 2019 Car of the Year award nears the end of its first generation, Genesis makes minor updates to streamline the features on offer. Rivals to the 2026 Genesis G70 include the Tesla Model 3, Alfa Romeo Giulia, and BMW 3 Series. What's New The 2026 G70 lineup sees some new content, but Genesis discontinues more features than it adds. Basics Electronically controlled suspension discontinued Power trunk no longer available on all trims 360-degree camera view standard on 3.3T models and available on 2.5T Prestige Exterior Capri Blue replaces Tasman Blue and Burleigh Blue Updated wheel design for 2.5T Prestige Aluminum trim available on 2.5T Prestige Interior Standard heated steering wheel on 2.5T AWD and above Beige, Gray, and Sport interiors discontinued for 2.5T models Nappa leather and microfiber suede headliner discontinued Alloy pedals discontinued on 2.5T Prestige What We Think Our 2019 Car of the Year returns for 2026, continuing its legacy of blending luxurious appointments with sporty driving dynamics. Although Genesis eliminates some features for the new model year, the 2026 G70 appears to remain a strong value proposition. There are quicker offerings in the segment, but the 2026 Genesis G70's subjective pleasures rival longer-established automakers. Its powerful engines feel gutsy when pushed but exhibit a relaxed character while tootling around town or cruising on the highway. It excels as a luxury car, too, with excellent build quality and interior materials. The 2026 Genesis G70 does have some weak aspects, though. Standard equipment goes well beyond the basics, but doesn't include the new tech features and larger displays offered on other models. The ride can get choppy, the second row isn't the roomiest, and trunk space is down compared to rivals. First introduced for 2019, the Genesis G70 is starting to show its age, as well. Still, the G70 remains a compelling pick for those who love to drive but don't want to sacrifice comfort or convenience. We hope Genesis continues to offer enthusiast-friendly models when the G70's time is inevitably up. Top-Ranked Competitors: BMW 3 Series Alfa Romeo Giulia Mercedes-Benz C-Class MotorTrend Tested Entry-level versions of the 2026 Genesis G70 carry over with a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine developing 300 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission is standard, with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive available. A rear-wheel-drive G70 takes 5.7 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph. All-wheel-drive models require 5.9 seconds. For perspective, the four-cylinder BMW 330i only takes 5.3–5.4 seconds with RWD or AWD. An upgrade to the optional 3.3-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 engine producing 365 hp and 375 lb-ft of torque brings the G70's 0–60-mph time down to a mere 4.5 seconds. For comparison, the BMW M340i xDrive we tested needed just 3.8 seconds to hit 60 mph. MPGs and Range We expect the 2026 Genesis G70 will log similar EPA ratings to the 2025 model. It's most efficient with the base 2.5-liter engine and rear-wheel drive, returning 21/29 mpg city/highway. With all-wheel drive, those figures fall slightly to 20/28 mpg. The competing 2025 BMW 330i is a paragon of efficiency at 28/35 mpg with RWD and 26/34 mpg with xDrive AWD. With the larger 3.3-liter V-6, the G70's fuel economy takes a tumble. Rear-wheel-drive models return 17/25 mpg, and all-wheel-drive models are rated at 17/23 mpg. For comparison, the BMW M340i is only marginally less efficient than the 330i despite its much more powerful I-6 engine, rated at 27/33 mpg with rear-wheel drive and 26/33 mpg with all-wheel drive. The G70 2.5T has the most range, at 379 miles. With all-wheel drive, that figure drops slightly to 363 miles. The BMW 3 Series has a lot more range—484 miles with RWD and 452 miles with AWD. With the 3.3-liter engine, the G70's numbers fall to 316 and 300 miles, respectively. Meanwhile, both of the M340i's drivetrain layouts are good for 452 miles of range. Safety Ratings and Features For 2025, the Genesis G70 receives Good scores in all crashworthiness categories evaluated by IIHS. It also gets a top score in the headlights test. LATCH ease of use is rated Marginal, the second-lowest score. Genesis equips the 2026 G70 with a robust suite of active safety features. We've found the driver assistance systems to be useful in our testing. Automatic high-beams Front and rear automatic emergency braking Side cross-traffic alert Intersection collision avoidance Blind-spot monitoring Lane keeping assist Adaptive cruise control Cargo Space and Interior Room The 2026 Genesis G70's front row is roomy, but the second row feels tight. Cargo space is down compared to rivals. Technology Infotainment Genesis outfits every 2026 G70 with a standard 10.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with built-in navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Unlike other Genesis models with a single panel for all digital functions, the G70 still uses a second 8.0-inch display and semi-analog instrument cluster. A head-up display is available. The 2026 Genesis G70's cabin has a total of four USB-C ports. Only higher trims come equipped with a wireless charging pad. Sound System The G70's base sound system is a six-speaker arrangement. A 15-speaker setup from Lexicon is also available. Available Upgrades Heated steering wheel Ventilated front seats Power-folding side mirrors with Genesis logo puddle lamps Value Standard Features Genesis equips the 2026 G70 with a standard 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and rear-wheel drive. The sport sedan rides on 19-inch wheels and a fully independent suspension. All models use Brembo brakes. Inside the cabin, the G70 features standard leatherette upholstery with heated front seats. All models have a proximity key and pushbutton start. There's an 8.0-inch gauge cluster display alongside an analog gauge, a 10.3-inch infotainment display, and four USB-C ports. Safety features include forward collision avoidance assist, lane keeping assist, lane following assist, driver attention warning, blind-spot collision warning, rear cross-traffic collision avoidance assist, a rearview camera, safe exit warning, and a rear occupant alert. Recommended Trim Genesis offers the 2026 G70 in eight trims: 2.5T RWD 2.5T AWD 2.5T Sport Prestige RWD 2.5T Sport Prestige AWD 3.3T Sport Advanced RWD 3.3T Sport Advanced AWD 3.3T Sport Prestige RWD 3.3T Sport Prestige AWD Models with the 3.3-liter engine are compact rockets, but the base 2.5-liter four-cylinder still has plenty of grunt. For that reason, we'd go for rear-drive Sport Prestige trim to get the leather seats, sunroof, and ventilated front seats. Pricing for the G70 should start around $44,000 and reach nearly $60,000 for the 3.3T Sport Prestige AWD model. The 2026 Genesis G70 2.5T Sport Prestige RWD is our goldilocks, stickering for less than $50,000. The Sportiest 2026 Genesis G70 All Genesis G70s are fun to drive, but the most enthusiast-oriented are the pair of 3.3T Sport Prestige models, which receive a limited-slip differential, Brembo brakes, and a variable exhaust system. In prior years, Genesis equipped electronically controlled suspension, but that feature has been discontinued for 2026 in favor of a passive setup.
Motor Trend
3 days ago
- Motor Trend
2025 Mercedes-Benz EQE500 4Matic Sedan First Test: Minor Updates, Mixed Results?
Pros Ultra-quiet cabin Super smooth ride Rear-steer nimbleness Cons EPA range decreases Soap bar styling Mediocre peak charging rate Mercedes-Benz set a high bar with the latest incarnation of the E-Class sedan and wagon, so much so that we named the redesigned model our 2025 Car of the Year. Now it's time to check on the award-winning luxury car's all-electric-powered counterpart, the 2025 Mercedes-Benz EQE-Class Sedan, which receives a smattering of slight changes for the new model year. 0:00 / 0:00 Chiefly, Mercedes equipped the midsize EQE with a bigger battery pack and recalibrated its braking software. To see how the latest updates have shaken out, we put this 2025 Mercedes-Benz EQE500 4Matic in Alpine Grey over Sable Brown and Black Nappa leather through our testing regimen. Improvements: Verified but Not Perfect In keeping with Mercedes-Benz's ethos for its non-AMG EVs, the 2025 EQE500 4Matic is quick without feeling overly aggressive when you punch the accelerator. But with 402 hp and 633 lb-ft of torque available from its dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain, there's plenty of juice on tap when you want to get going quickly. The sprint from 0 to 60 mph takes 4.0 seconds, an exercise that thrills at launch before settling into a smooth and linear pull to highway speeds. Wheeling the EQE500 4Matic around town is a pleasant, relaxing affair. Light, precise steering lends the driver a sense of confidence when navigating a curvy freeway ramp or making delicate maneuvers in a parking lot. That feeling is further amplified by a standard rear-axle steering setup, which helps the midsize sedan pivot with the poise of a compact. Equipped with electronically controlled air springs, the EQE500 exhibits a silky ride quality that takes the strain out of the daily commute. Despite a more aggressive 21-inch wheel and tire package, few road imperfections impinge on the EQE's comfortable character. The only time you're reminded of the large rims wrapped in thin rubber is when you hit a significant bump and the resulting shock rocks the cabin. Otherwise, the EQE500 4Matic's overall ride is as elegant and quiet as you'd expect from a Mercedes at this price point. While it's mostly good news from a ride and handling standpoint, the retune of the EQE's braking software is something of a mixed bag. Enable one-pedal driving and tap the left steering-wheel paddle for the most aggressive regenerative braking setting, and the EQE slows itself predictably and consistently, though you may find yourself using the actual brake pedal to finish the stop yourself. The biggest change is that the pedal doesn't move on its own anymore during regenerative braking, so it's always in the default position when you need it. There's now also more pedal feel than prior iterations of the EQE Sedan, especially at the top of travel. Beyond that point, it's something of a guessing game as to how much stopping power the EQE500 will apply. Fortunately, the Mercedes stays straight and level during panic stops. Braking from 60 to 0 mph matches that of the EQE500's AMG sibling; both models need a mere 105 feet to come to a halt—a hugely impressive number given its 5,520-pound curb weight. While the 2025 Mercedes-Benz EQE500 4Matic makes no pretensions of being a sport sedan, you may be tempted to toggle on Sport mode, toggle off traction control, and send it on a twisty road. If you do, its tires provide impressive grip, and the rear steer reins in understeer so long as you keep your hands steady. Underscoring its performance potential, the EQE500 4Matic managed an impressive 24.9-second lap around our one-third mile figure-eight test track before its grip started to go away. That's better than the dual-motor Genesis G80 Electric's result of 25.3 seconds and the dual-motor BMW i5 M60 xDrive's lap time of 25.2 seconds without the Dynamic Handling package. The EQE500's balanced approach to driving compares favorably to our gas-powered, Car of the Year–winning E-Class, a car that wowed us with its mastery of core competencies. When it comes to on-road performance, it's about as close as it gets between the two. Both models excel in real-world driving scenarios thanks to crisp, low-effort steering and ample power. And although the mild hybrid E-Class scores better in the overall brake feel department, the EQE counters that with its ability to come to a full stop as it regenerates battery power. Charging and Range Still in Need of Improvement But as composed and impressive as the updated 2025 EQE500 4Matic has shown itself to be on the road and on the track, its charging and range shortcomings remain an issue. While its new battery pack is bigger, with 96 kWh of capacity, peak charging still caps out at an unimpressive 170 kW. What's more, we only saw a peak of 162 kW in our charging test at an average of 121 kW from 5 to 80 percent over 38 minutes. You can add 98 miles of range in 15 minutes, a result that falls short of the likes of other larger electric cars we've tested from BMW, Lucid, and Porsche. Charge at home, as we suspect many EQE-Class drivers will have the option to do, and those weaknesses are unlikely to be nearly as much of an issue. Range also dips despite the updates. With an EPA combined rating of 266 miles (down from 298 miles for the 2024 model), the EQE500 has some limitations as a long-haul conveyance. On the plus side, the EQE500 4Matic performed well in our Road-Trip Range test, which evaluates how far you can drive at a steady 70 mph from 100 percent to 5 percent charge. In our testing we recorded 264 miles, which is just 1 percent off its official rating—a result that should help soothe any range anxiety concerns. Life Inside the EQE-Class Another soothing aspect of the EQE500 is its well-appointed, comfortable cabin. Unlike the entry-level EQE350+ and EQE350 4Matic variants, this upper-level sedan comes standard with Mercedes-Benz's Hyperscreen, a trio of displays housed under a single pane of glass. The user interface's sprawling menus and applications continue to be refined, and among its more useful and novel features are improved voice commands, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and fingerprint user profiles. Some areas still need more polish, however, namely the camera feeds. Although they're displayed at a high resolution, the 360-degree overhead and other 3D views show an artificially generous boundary around the car to provide a buffer zone. Additionally, the crop of the backup camera is too narrow to depict exactly where the rear of the Mercedes will go when you're in reverse. You won't curb a wheel, but these imprecisions make it tough to know exactly how close the EQE is in relation to other cars and obstacles in tight spots. One area that apparently did get some needed polish was an issue we've previously reported with Mercedes-Benz EQ models where otherwise high-quality-looking plastics could flex easily and squeak when pressure was applied. Thankfully, this seems to have been remedied as part of the EQE's 2025 model year update Otherwise, our decked-out test car coddled us with heated and ventilated massaging seats, a heated steering wheel, wireless charging, and a rich-sounding Burmester audio setup with 15 speakers. Standard 64-color ambient lighting allows the cabin's atmosphere to be configured to the driver's taste. We'd also be remiss if we didn't call out this particular model's headrest pillows, which are super soft and supportive. Passengers benefit from an upscale second row with generous legroom. The trunk is somewhat oddly shaped, but there's plenty of space for groceries or luggage. Highway driving assistance features perform well and make few errors while the Digital Light package equips active headlights with curve adaptive functionality and puddle lighting to illuminate the road with alerts for other motorists. From a practical standpoint, the EQE's overall utility outshines any of its minor foibles. An Electric E-Class? While the 2025 Mercedes-Benz EQE makes a better attempt than ever at delivering the same well-rounded excellence that made the E-Class a Car of the Year winner, its average efficiency, charging, and camera tech conspire to hold it back a notch. And although its improved braking is a plus, Mercedes' engineers still have work to do before the stoppers deserve genuine praise. Then there's the matter of the EQE's Apple Mouse/soap bar exterior styling, which for many is an acquired taste at best and a turnoff at worst. Prices begin at $87,050 and climb to $101,070 for a vehicle equipped in the same way as our test model shown here. That's a steep ask for any midsize luxury EV, especially when considering competitively priced flagship models such as the Lucid Air, Tesla Model S, and Porsche Taycan. Still, the 2025 Mercedes-Benz EQE500 4Matic is as quiet and comfortable as you'd hope a vehicle wearing the Three-Pointed Star would be. Taken as a whole, the EQE should meet the requirements of those in search of a luxurious, all-electric-powered daily driver that feels spacious without the oversized exterior dimensions.
Miami Herald
3 days ago
- Miami Herald
Genesis GV60 Magma Nearly Ready to Join the EV Power Wars
Genesis is dead serious about its Magma sub-brand. The performance division, set to rival heavyweights like Mercedes-AMG and BMW M Performance, made its presence known last year in New York, with the GV60 Magma and GV80 Magma concepts. And to cement its credentials, Genesis will also race at the 2026 FIA World Endurance Championship with the GMR-001 Hypercar. But before that happens, the production version of the GV60 Magma will first set foot on the global stage. The go-fast electric crossover has recently been spotted wearing thinner camouflage for the first time, revealing more exciting details ahead of its grand debut. The GV60 Magma prototype that you see here tries hard to hide its bright orange paint, but it's evident on the antenna fin and on the brake calipers. And we can also see features that we can expect to find on the production unit. Off the bat, the polarizing twin lighting fixtures, front and back, are present. The bumpers are more aggressive, too, compared to the standard GV60, plus the spoiler appears to be different, albeit less aggressive than what's found on the concept. We can't comment on the black wheels for now as they seem to be placeholders, but hiding behind them are the bright orange brake calipers to match the body paint. Production specs of the GV60 Magma aren't definite at this point, though insider information reveals that it will have an 800-volt electrical architecture that allows ultra-fast charging. Output, on the other hand, is expected to go over 700 horsepower, which should be more than what its Hyundai twin, the brilliant Ioniq 5 N, produces. In terms of battery, sources say that the GV60 will be equipped with an 84 kWh battery pack that's good for 278 miles based on the more forgiving WLTC standard. This figure will, of course, go down if the GV60 reaches the US and goes through EPA testing. Genesis hasn't announced a specific date for the GV60 Magma's grand debut. However, reports point us to a launch later in the year, just in time for the red-hot performance EV to be offered as a 2026 model year. Given this timeline, we expect to catch the GV60 Magma prototype more while testing on the road, perhaps giving us more information about its much-anticipated electric firepower. Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
