2025 Genesis GV70 Expert Review
Reviewed by Bob Hernandez
The 2025 GV70 is the entry-level model in the Genesis SUV lineup, and what a way to kick things off. It delivers great value in a resplendent and brilliantly driving crossover—keys to how it secured MotorTrend's 2022 SUV of the Year Award. This year, minor changes arrive, with a more serious midcycle refresh expected in the not-too-distant future. Luxury compact SUV competitors include the Lexus NX and BMW X3.
Looking for a bigger Genesis SUV? Read about the GV80 here.
What’s New
- Every 2025 trim level receives standard wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility
- Genesis Connected Services vehicle locator is also standard across the lineup starting this year
- Storr Green, Storr Green Matte, Matterhorn White Matte, and Makalu Gray Matte exterior paint colors are now available
- Cardiff Green and Brunswick Green exterior colors have been discontinued
What We Think
We didn’t get the refreshed GV70 we predicted this year, but the current model has few weaknesses, primarily that neither gas powertrain is all that efficient. The electric version is a gas-eschewing alternative, but it costs significantly more.
That sums up our only issues with the compelling small SUV. There is much we adore about the GV70, from its handsomely designed exterior and exquisite interior to its cosseting, hushed ride. Cabin materials and tech feel fittingly high end, although one must be careful not to confuse the two big control knobs on the center console (one's the gear shifter, the other's an infotainment controller). There's even plenty of space for passengers and cargo. On a canyon road, the GV70 delivers performance resembling a sports car.
Maybe our favorite thing about the Genesis is how accessible it is, flipping on its head the idea that upscale must come with a steep price. After its 2022 SUV of the Year win, the GV70 remains a class benchmark.
Performance and MPGs
Every 2025 GV70 features AWD, and gas models get an eight-speed automatic transmission. For the full story on the GV70 Electric—including range and changing stats—read about it here.
GV70 2.5T
- Engine: 2.5-liter turbo-four
- Horsepower/Torque: 300 hp/311 lb-ft
- Efficiency (city/highway): 19-22/26-28 mpg
- Acceleration (0-60 mph): 6.0 seconds
GV70 3.5T
- Engine: 3.5-liter turbocharged V-6
- Horsepower/Torque: 375 hp/391 lb-ft
- Efficiency (city/highway): 18/24 mpg
- Acceleration (0-60 mph): 5.4 seconds
GV70 Electric
- Powertrain: Dual-motor AWD with 77.4-kWh battery
- Horsepower/Torque: 438 hp/516 lb-ft
- Efficiency (city/highway): 98/83 mpg-e*
- Acceleration (0-60 mph): 3.7 seconds
*2024 EPA rating
Is There a GV70 Hybrid?
We think there should be. The 2025 GV80 Coupe receives a hybrid version of the GV70's V-6 that comes with an electrically driven supercharger and a 48-volt mild hybrid setup. Genesis says it'll generate an impressive 409 hp. This could likely fit in the GV70 and potentially address two gripes of ours, namely that the GV70 V-6 is barely quicker than the turbo-four and that both powertrains could be more efficient.
Safety Ratings and Features
A blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, driver focus monitor, and rear parking sensors remain standard safety features on the 2025 GV70. Genesis also includes adaptive cruise control and automatic headlights with automatic high-beams as standard convenience features. Front parking sensors remain optional.
Last year's GV70 earned a 2024 IIHS Top Safety Pick award, the institute's second highest accolade. It wasn't fully graded by NHTSA but the 2023 model was, and it received a five-star overall safety rating. Genesis will be aiming for similarly high safety ratings with the 2025 model.
Cargo Space and Interior Room
Interior room in the GV70 continues to compare favorably to rivals like the BMW X3 and Lexus NX. The Bimmer does come with more maximum cargo capacity, though.
Technology
A 14.5-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a wireless phone charger, rain-sensing wipers, and heated power front seats remain standard equipment. Nine-speaker audio and an 8.0-inch gauge cluster display are also included unless you spring for the optional 16-speaker Lexicon audio and 12.3-inch cluster screen. The 2025 GV70 3.5T still features power-folding side mirrors with puddle lights, ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel.
2025 GV70 Pricing and Availability
Genesis has begun deliveries of the 2025 GV70 and, as expected, prices have crept upward, as has destination pricing, which is up to $1,350 from last year’s $1,195. The GV70 2.5T Standard base model starts at $47,050, while the top gas model (the 3.5T Sport Prestige) comes in at $69,250. Pricing for the 2025 GV70 Electric has yet to be revealed, but it should start close to the $70,000 mark.
Refreshed GV70 on the Way?
Genesis has revealed a face-lifted GV70 for Korea, featuring a new dual-weave mesh grille, updated turn signal lights, and fresh wheels. Inside, the interior shows off a new 27-inch OLED display integrating the gauge cluster and infotainment screen, complemented by touch-based climate controls and new mood lighting. We think this is a taste of what to expect for the 2026 GV70 here in the U.S.
