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Genesis G70 review

2021 onwards (change model)
Parkers overall rating: 2.6 out of 52.6
” A decent executive saloon needing a wider engine range “

At a glance

Price new £39,905 - £42,575
Used prices £17,354 - £32,718
Road tax cost £190 - £600
Insurance group 31 - 39
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Fuel economy 31.9 - 44.5 mpg
Miles per pound 4.7 - 5.7
View full specs for a specific version

Available fuel types

Petrol

Diesel

Pros & cons

PROS
  • Sport Line provides an engaging drive 
  • Comfortable ride 
  • Solidly built interior
CONS
  • Small boot 
  • Tight rear head room 
  • Lacklustre engines

Written by Alan Taylor-Jones Published: 31 August 2021 Updated: 10 October 2023

Overview

If you’re looking for an alternative to the established range of compact executive saloons, then the Genesis G70 has its strengths. This model is part of Hyundai’s luxury division, which is trying to establish itself as a separate brand in the UK, having already done so successfully in the USA and the Far East.

Keen drivers will enjoy the balance of sharp handling and comfort that’s available, and while the interior isn’t as jazzy as the one found in larger Genesis models, the G70 is still well put together and has a reasonable spread of plush materials.

All models are well equipped, while starting prices are very reasonable when compared with compact executive saloon rivals. These include the German ‘big three’ of the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, while other alternative choices come in the shape of the closely related Kia Stinger, the Jaguar XE, Alfa Romeo Giulia and Volvo S60, or even the Tesla Model 3.

If you’re a fan of the button-lite, touchscreen-heavy interiors of cars such as the C-Class and Model 3, you might be disappointed by the G70. Us? We like the easy-to-operate buttons, switches and dials that work with a pleasing precision. They certainly make changing temperature or using the stereo easier when you’re driving. Quality is good, with a decent spread of squishy plastics, attractive trims and supple leather.

It’s not all good news, though, because the G70 has a few niggles that you might be willing to overlook, but there are other issues that are harder to forgive. Tall adults are unlikely to grumble about space up front, but those in the back might feel squeezed and the boot is nothing to write home about.

There’s a limited engine range, too, with a single diesel, two petrols and no option for a plug-in hybrid. All UK cars are rear-wheel drive with an eight-speed automatic gearbox.

Over the next few pages we’ll be thoroughly reviewing all aspects of the Genesis G70 and rate them in our verdict. Our scores will take into account the driving experience, how pleasant the interior is, the practicality on offer and what it’ll cost you to run.