Thanks to GoodCarBadCar, we now have a concrete idea of car sales by model for 2022. One of the most surprising takeaways from the list is that the Genesis GV70 has the highest sales to date for the brand at 19,141. Despite being relatively new to the market, it outsold nameplates like the Genesis G90 and G80 that have been around for several years.
So what is it that makes it so attractive to buyers?
2022 Genesis GV70 basic specifications and features
At the time of the 2022 launch, the Genesis GV70 was available for a starting price of $41,500. It also came in two versions that mirrored the available powertrains: the 2.5T and 3.5T. Since it’s too soon for a redesign, these are the same trims that buyers will get for the 2023 model year.
It features truck styling exterior with a bold double stripe headlamp cluster on the front fascia. It also offers space for up to five passengers.
2.5T models come with a turbocharged inline-four engine capable of making up to 300 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy is 22 mpg and 28 mpg for city and highway driving for a combined 24 mpg. According to car and driverthis powertrain propels the Genesis SUV from 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds.
On the other hand, the 3.5T models increase performance with a twin-turbo 3.5L V6 engine, whose stats are 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. Naturally, this trim is quicker, making the same 0-60 mph run in 4.9 seconds on the reviewer’s test track. It’s also less fuel efficient with an average of 21 mpg thanks to gas mileage of 19 mpg city and 25 mpg highway.
Both options are associated with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
A dynamic interior
As for the interior, there’s a lot to impress, including the 14.5-inch infotainment screen in the dash. It is equipped with a fingerprint scanner that gives access to preloaded settings for drivers and passengers. Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and even a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot are also included.
As you’d expect from a Genesis luxury SUV, the materials in the cabin are quite luxurious, not to mention it has a few extra features like heated seats. That being said, these are determined by the package you choose. At the low end, the standard package comes with 18-inch wheels, leatherette upholstery, a motion-activated power liftgate, and heated power-adjustable front seats.
The high-end Sport Prestige package offers extras like 21-inch wheels, alloy sport pedals, tri-zone climate control, and a larger cluster display.
What critics had to say about the 2022 Genesis GV70
According to Genesisthe compact luxury SUV was listed among Autotrader’s Best New Cars of 2022. Edmunds also had high praise for the vehicle, having won critics’ top-rated luxury SUV of the Year award.
Car and Driver may have some grievances with rear-seat space, a sentiment most disagree with, but overall, it praises the GV70’s entry into the segment. Standout positives include powertrain options and interior styling.
MotorTrend, on the other hand, raises a valid point about the vehicle’s fuel economy, though like everyone else, it seems to have a high opinion of the car.
Reasons why the Genesis GV70 became the best seller of the brand
Besides most reviewers only having good things to say about the SUV, it’s comfortable, powerful, relatively fast, offers a decent ride, and has tons of tech features. Plus, it received an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating, which means it’s one of the safest cars of the year.
Another possible reason why it was so attractive was the price. It’s cheaper than most other competitors in the segment, and more affordable than the larger Genesis GV80 that preceded it in the manufacturer’s lineup.