Last year, Genesis introduced the Electrified GV70 – an electric version of the popular GV70 SUV, as part of their plan to sell only electric vehicles by 2030. Now in its sophomore year, the Electrified GV70 continues unchanged, but still impressive.
The Electrified GV70 looks nearly identical to the regular GV70, which is considered to be one of today’s best luxury SUVs. One minor difference can be found in the front grille, where the inverted G-Matrix pattern incorporates a hidden EV charging port. Another difference can be found at the rear where a tailpipe-free skid plate is used. Otherwise, the signature design elements of the GV70 are followed through to the Electrified GV70.
Underneath though, the Electrified GV70 is more like the all-electric GV60 than the regular GV70. The Electrified GV70 uses the same powertrain as GV60 which includes a 77.4-kWh battery pack and two electric motors — one on each axle to give it all-wheel drive. Just like the top trim level Performance GV60, power output is an impressive 429 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. And just like the in the GV60, that power can be increased to 483 hp for up to 10 seconds when the Boost mode is engaged.
With EVs, the question of range always comes up. The Electrified GV70 follows in the footsteps of the GV60 and has a driving range of up to 236 miles. When hooked up to a rapid charger, the Electrified GV70 can be charged from 10 to 80 percent capacity in just 18 minutes. A full quick charge should take around 30 minutes. If you are like me and have it plugged into a standard 120V outlet, expect a few days to full charge the Electrified GV70.
Inside, the Electrified GV70 strays away from the high-tech look and feel of the GV60 and uses the same interior found in the GV70. A wide-format 14.5-inch display for the easy-to-read infotainment system is mounted on the dash and is both Apple and Android compatible (although oddly enough it is not wireless – a USB cable is required). Two dials are on the center console – one to control the infotainment center and the other is the familiar knurled rotary wheel used for the gear selector.
On the road, the Electrified GV70 is amazingly quick. There is a ton of torque on tap to get you moving, yet if you need more, just hit the Boost button on the lower section of the steering wheel to unlock the beast hidden within. The Electrified GV70 can hit 60 mph in about 3.8 seconds which is about a second quicker than the optional twin-turbocharged V-6 equipped GV70. Now, which is more fun and engaging to drive will be up for debate.
When taken into corners, the Electrified GV70 feels nicely planted thanks in part to the heavy batteries mounted down low in the chassis. Genesis tuned the suspension and the road manners to favor a more luxurious ride rather than a performance one, and it achieves that by swallowing up potholes and road imperfections with minimal intrusions to those seated inside.
With the Electrified GV70 starting around $67,000 for the base Advanced model (the tester is a Prestige model and carries a $75,020 price tag), it has a lot to offer as an EV. Great styling and plenty of luxury, the only shortcoming may be its range, although it may be fine for many buyers. Not only that, but the Electrified GV70 is a nice blend of Genesis vehicles – the elegant design of the GV70 with the advanced electric powertrain of the GV60, makes it a potential sweet spot for EV consumers.
— Christopher A. Randazzo
By The Numbers:
Base Price: $66,450.00
Price as Tested: $75,020.00
Layout: dual motors / all-wheel drive
Engine: 160 kW Front / 160 kW Rear electric motors
Horsepower: 429 / 483 horsepower
Torque: 516 lb-ft
EPA Fuel Economy: 91 MPGe (98 city / 83 highway)
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