While some automakers are going all in with dedicated EV platforms, Genesis is hedging its bets with both dedicated EV platforms and platforms that accommodate both gas and EV versions of the same model.
The Genesis Electrified GV70 shares its platform with turbocharged 2.5 liter 4-cylinder and 3.5 liter V6 gas versions.
From a styling standpoint, the Electrified GV70 is typical Genesis, including the big front grille, although unlike its internal combustion brothers, it has a solid diamond pattern, since the radiator air intakes aren’t needed.
Once you get out on the road the amount of thought the engineers and designers put into both gas and EV versions quickly becomes clear. One of my favorite aspects of the Electrified GV70 is its safety systems.
It starts with the side view cameras that activate in the main gauge cluster when a turn signal is used. A side camera temporarily replaces either the speedometer or power meter, depending on whether the left or right turn signal is activated.
The GV70 is even more plush than it’s little sister, the GV60, and its corporate cousins: the Kia EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 5. Although its bigger and softer, it still has plenty of kick when Sport mode is selected.
A physical switch in the console allows the driver to quickly flip between modes without going hunting in the touch screen. The gauge cluster colors and details change a bit between modes.
When Sport mode is selected the front seat bolsters tighten to better cradle the driver through the curves. Better yet, it features a button on the steering wheel that Genesis calls Boost, which unleashes 100% of the Electrified GV70’s power in short bursts, giving the driver the SUV’s full 483 horsepower, as compared to its normal 429 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque.
“As far as performance goes, you know it’s a very lively vehicle, and the GV70 has a little trick feature with the Boost mode, which ups the horsepower for 10 seconds. And you can use that as many times as you want, which is kind of neat, but I kind of wish they would have included that as far as being just a drive mode, said AutomotiveAddicts.com Publisher Malcom Hogan. Automotive Addicts graciously loaned EV Rider the GV70 featured in this review.
Hogan said the Electrified GV70 can hit 60 mph in about 4.2 seconds, while using the Boost mode from a stop gets you to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds.
Out on the road the Electrified GV70 is a very comfortable cruiser with a competent driver assist package that includes adaptive cruise control and lane keeping.
For the most part it is a hands free system, although unlike the systems from Ford and GM you do have to put your hand back on the wheel every so often.
The self-steering takes gentle curves just fine and the adaptive cruise control did a good job maintaining distance between the vehicles in front of it.
The GV70’s infotainment system is one of the best I’ve ever used. Its layout is logical and attractive with many of the functions available through either touchscreens or physical controls. Android Auto and Apple Car Play are also on board.
A full suite of driving modes are available starting with Eco mode, which eases up on the throttle and provides the best range. The Electrified GV70 also allows the drive to create a custom mode for the steering feel, braking, active suspension and pedal response.
Another feature that encourages driving involvement is a set of steering paddles that can be used to increase or decrease the amount of regen. The paddles simulate the feel of downshifts while feeding regenerative power back into the battery.
The Electrified GV70 has an 800-volt architecture, allowing it to fast charge from 10% to 80% in 18 minutes when plugged into a 350kW CCS DC charger. At home, it will add just over 20 miles per hour on a 40 amp Level 2 AC charger.
The as tested price of our Genesis Electrified GV70 was $74,350 and included the optional Prestige package.
The EPA rates the Electrified EV70 at 236 miles of range, which is where the AWD SUV falls short. Most EVs in its price category offer more range with some topping well over 300 miles per charge.
For a road test of the Electrified GV70 and a more detailed look at its features, including ones not mentioned in this abbreviated text version of the story, be sure to watch the video at the top of this post.
