2026 Genesis GV70 3.5T Review: Luxury, Power and a Dash of Fun

Genesis has been shaking things up in the luxury world for a while now. What started as Hyundai’s ambitious premium sub-brand is now a serious threat to the Germans, and the GV70 is proof of that. It’s stylish, packed with gobs of tech, and drives like something that costs a lot more than its sticker price suggests.

The 2026 Genesis GV70 3.5T sits at the top of the GV70 lineup, offering a twin-turbo V6, all-wheel drive, and an upscale interior that punches way above its weight class. This is the performance version of Genesis’ compact luxury SUV, designed to compete with the likes of the BMW X3 M40i, Audi SQ5, and Mercedes-AMG GLC 43.

Is this Genesis ready to take on the big dogs, or is it still playing catch-up? Let’s find out…

Powertrain & Performance: More Than Just a Pretty Face

The 2026 GV70 3.5T isn’t just about leather seats and a fancy grille—it packs some serious heat under the hood.

• Engine: 3.5L twin-turbo V6
• Horsepower: 400 hp (estimated)
• Torque: 405 lb-ft
• Transmission: 8-speed automatic
• Drivetrain: Standard AWD
• Fuel Economy: TBD (but expect something in the 18-24 mpg range)

Genesis took the already impressive GV70 and cranked up the performance. The twin-turbo V6 delivers strong acceleration, and the AWD system keeps it planted in all conditions. It’s no full-blown performance SUV like a BMW X3 M, but it offers plenty of power without sacrificing comfort.

The ride is composed, with adaptive dampers that adjust on the fly. Want to cruise in luxury mode? No problem. Feeling sporty? Dial it up, and the GV70 firms up the suspension, tightens the steering, and sharpens throttle response. It’s a real Jekyll and Hyde SUV…calm and composed when you want, but eager to play when you ask.

What Makes the GV70 3.5T Special?

Plenty of luxury SUVs offer power, but Genesis has nailed the “luxury for less” formula while still delivering serious performance. The GV70 3.5T stands out because of its balance, it’s quick, refined, and loaded with features that often cost extra on competitors.

1. Interior That Feels Ultra-Luxurious

Step inside, and it’s clear Genesis isn’t messing around. The materials, design, and overall execution rival SUVs that cost $10,000-$20,000 more.

• Nappa leather seating (optional) with quilting that looks straight out of a Bentley.
• 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster with 3D effects that make it feel futuristic.
• 14.5-inch infotainment screen with crisp graphics and quick responses.
• Knurled metal dials and switches, giving it a premium feel.
• Available massaging seats for those long road trips.

Everything inside feels expensive, well thought-out, and genuinely nice to touch. Genesis didn’t just throw a bunch of tech at this SUV—they made it an experience.

2. Striking Design That Turns Heads

Luxury SUVs tend to follow a copy-paste design formula, but the GV70 takes a different approach. The signature Crest Grille, aggressive LED headlights, and sloping roofline make it stand out in a sea of German crossovers. Genesis went for bold, not boring, and it works.

The available matte paint options only add to its presence, making it look like something straight out of a design studio concept sketch.

3. Advanced Tech That Feels Cutting-Edge

Genesis loaded the GV70 with high-end tech that actually makes life easier, not just features that look good on a brochure.

• Fingerprint recognition to start the car (because keys are too mainstream).
• Remote Smart Parking Assist (yes, it can park itself).
• Highway Driving Assist 2 – Almost like a hands-free system on the highway.
• Augmented Reality Navigation – Overlays directions onto a live video feed.

The tech isn’t just fancy for the sake of it—it genuinely adds convenience and safety.

Trims & A Few Notable Options

The 2026 Genesis GV70 comes in multiple trims, but for those who want the 3.5T twin-turbo V6, you’re looking at the top-tier models.

1. GV70 3.5T Sport AWD

• Twin-turbo V6 power
• AWD system with adaptive dampers
• 19-inch wheels
• Leather upholstery
• Heated front seats and steering wheel

2. GV70 3.5T Sport Prestige AWD

• 21-inch wheels
• Nappa leather seats
• Massaging front seats
• Lexicon premium audio system
• Remote Smart Parking Assist
• Carbon fiber interior trim

Some Notable Options:

• Matte paint finishes (seriously, it looks incredible).
• Head-up display for that fighter-jet feel.
• Suede headliner because luxury is in the details.
• 360-degree camera system to avoid curb rash.

Competitors: Who’s Fighting for the Throne?

The Genesis GV70 3.5T isn’t entering an empty ring. It’s up against some serious contenders:

1. BMW X3 M40i – The German Benchmark

• 3.0L turbocharged inline-6 with 382 hp
• More expensive than the GV70
• Great driving dynamics, but less luxurious inside

Verdict: The X3 M40i is quicker, but the GV70 offers a better interior and more features for the money.

2. Audi SQ5 – Subtle But Strong

• 3.0L turbocharged V6 with 349 hp
• Quattro AWD system for year-round grip
• Smooth, refined, but less engaging to drive

Verdict: The SQ5 is classy and comfortable, but it lacks the personality of the GV70 3.5T.

3. Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 – The Show-Off

• AMG-tuned 3.0L V6 with 385 hp
• Snappy 9-speed transmission
• One of the best-looking interiors in the segment

Verdict: The GLC 43 is stylish and quick, but Genesis beats it on price and feature content.

What Could Be Better?

The GV70 3.5T is close to perfect, but there are a few things that could be improved:

• Infotainment interface – The touchscreen is great, but the rotary dial isn’t as intuitive as it should be.
• No plug-in hybrid option – Competitors like the X3 and GLC offer electrified versions.
• Steering feel could be sharper – It’s quick, but a little more feedback wouldn’t hurt.
• Resale value still unknown – Genesis is newer in the luxury space, so long-term value retention is a question mark.

Our Final Thoughts: Should You Buy One?

The 2026 Genesis GV70 3.5T checks all the right boxes—powerful, luxurious, and packed with value. It stands out in a crowd of predictable luxury SUVs, offering serious performance without the usual German price tag.

If you want something that looks great, feels premium, and is actually fun to drive, the GV70 3.5T should absolutely be on your radar.

Got thoughts? Think Genesis has what it takes to dethrone the Germans? Drop a comment below, unless you’re driving right now…then focus on the road!