2024 Genesis G70 2.5T RWD Sport Prestige Review

It's one of the best moves by an automaker this year. I'm talking about Genesis' move to upgrade the engine in its entry-level G70 luxury sports sedan.    I recently spent a week with the 2024 Genesis G70 2.5T RWD Sport Prestige. It was my second opportunity to check out its new powertrain, the first being briefly at a Texas Auto Writers Association event earlier this year. I was notably impressed then, as I am now.

Exterior

The Genesis G70 is a gorgeous sports sedan. My test vehicle wears Cavendish Red and rides on 19-inch sport alloy wheels that are just to die for, courtesy of the Sport Prestige Package.  Genesis new emblem marks the hood above a dark chrome grille flanked by Genesis' signature slim two-line LED headlamps.

The Sport Prestige Package also adds power-folding side mirrors with Genesis logo puddle lamps. Dual exhaust tips in the rear along with a body-colored diffuser no doubt give off a sporty vibe to those in your rearview mirror.

Performance

The big news for the 2024 G70 is what's under the hood of my test vehicle: a new 2.5 turbo four-cylinder engine that substantially boosts power over the outgoing 2.0-liter engine. Mated to a smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission, it delivers a much more enticing 300-horsepower versus the previous engine's 252 ponies. Torque gets a boost to an impressive 311 pound-feet from 260.  

Those specs put it much closer to the range-topping 3.3T model with its 365-horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque. And while yes the 3.3T is an exhilarating thrill ride, I'm here to tell you the new 2.5T delivers impressive performance as well.  And oh happy day! High-performance Brembo brakes are standard on the 2.5T and they are SUPER. You will, though, need to bump up to the 3.3.T for its great-sounding Variable Exhaust Valve System.

My vehicle is rear-wheel drive, but all-wheel drive is available. As you'd imagine, the 2.5T delivers better fuel economy than its more powerful sibling. Comparing the rear-wheel drive versions you get 24 high MPG on this one compared to 21 mpg on the 3.3T.

Interior

Genesis' luxurious interiors are, in a word, wonderful. My test vehicle's fog gray two-tone interior compliments its exterior hue perfectly.  My Sport Prestige model swaps leatherette for leather seating surfaces. Soft-touch surfaces are everywhere including on the leatherette-wrapped dash.

Genesis really really excels at its quality, premium switchgear as well.  Craftsmanship is bar none and the attention to detail is evident everywhere. For 2024, Genesis adds even more detail to the multi-function switches, door and console garnish patterns, air vents, cup holders, and key fob. 

The driver's seat is supportive yet comfy and both front seats are heated and ventilated. The driver's seat does not feature the seat bolster and cushion extender available on the 2024 3.3.T Sport Prestige model I've reviewed, nor the quilted seats and door panels. My Sport Prestige model is, however, equipped with a leather-wrapped, heated steering wheel. An 8-inch digital driver cluster also features analog elements.  

Oh yes and I must mention the wonderful power seat button on the left side of passenger seat, within easy reach of the driver of back row passengers. 

The entire lineup gains a updated center stack for 2024. Designers replaced the traditional climate controls with a touch-type climate control display.  A slim and sleekly designed center console gives access to a leather gear-shift along with various controls for drive modes, brake auto hold, the electronic parking brake, and available surround view camera.   The wide sunroof above is a scene stealer.  

As a compact sedan, the 60/40 split second row isn't huge but I still say it's comfortable for passengers. A drop-down cup holder console hosts two cupholders. 

Standard features include carpet floor mats. New features for 2024 across the lineup include USB C charging and a rear side airbag as standard equipment.

The available hands-free smart trunk opens up to 10.5 cubic-feet of cargo space. 

Technology

A 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen displays high quality graphics and navigation along with great rearview camera resolution.  Voice command is just terrific and the upgraded 15-speaker Lexicon sound system excels in the sound department. It's all really fantastic with the only downside the fact it doesn't offer wireless versions of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 

Ride and Drive

As I alluded to earlier, wow does the enhanced 2024 G70 2.5T impress in the driving dynamics department! Excellent acceleration, fun, sporty handling - it's all there.  Of course the ride is comfortable, too, not to mention quiet as well.  

Standard Equipment

The Sport Prestige package ($4200) includes those unbelievably awesome-looking 19-inch sport alloy wheels, dark chrome grille, sport aluminum trim, wide sunroof, and power-folding outside mirrors with Genesis puddle lamps.

Inside it features leather seating surfaces with integrated memory, ventilated front seats, the outstanding Lexicon sound system and a wireless phone charger.  The package also includes forward and reverse parking sensors.

Safety

The G70 is equipped with Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist,  Blind Spot Collision Warning,  Rear Cross Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, High Beams, Driver Attention Warning, Safe Exit Warning and Rear Occupant Alert. Genesis' Highway Driving Assist is absolutely outstanding. My test vehicle also has available Smart Cruise Control.  You have to step up to the top range 3.3.T for Surround View Monitor and Blind Spot Monitor.

What You’ll Pay

Pricing it on Genesis' build site with the Sport Prestige package I come up with $47,600 with destination. An incredible value for a sports sedan with this much luxury and performance -- don't forget about those Brembos!

Verdict

The Genesis G70 2.5T is a brilliant move by Genesis to elevate its entry-level luxury sports sedan to impressive new performance heights.   

1. What I Liked Most:  Upgraded powertrain, driving dynamics, Brembos,  looks, luxurious cabin.
2. What I would change:  Add wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
   
   
3. Total MSRP:  As priced on the Build site. Base:  $41,500. As equipped: $47,600.
4. Fuel Economy: 21 city/29 highway/ 24 combined.
5. Odometer reading when tested: 4,346 miles.
6. Weight:  3,774 lbs.
7. Spare Tire: Temporary Spare
8. Length-Width-Height: 184.4” long/ 72.8” wide/ 55.1” high.
9. Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.8 gallons with filler on driver’s side.
10. Towing Capacity: N/A.
11. Official Color:  Cavendish Red ($650)
12. 2024 Genesis G70 2.5T in a few words:   A brilliant move by Genesis to give its entry-level sedan impressive performance!
13. Warranty: 5 year/60,000-mile New Vehicle Warranty; 10 year/100,000-mile Warranty; 3 yr/36,000 miles complimentary maintenance.  
14. Final Assembly Location: Ulsan, Korea.
15. Manufacturer's website: Genesis
    

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