Atlanta, Georgia – The Genesis brand is only six years old, so don’t forget that. It had a modest beginning by choice. Rather than attacking the market with SUVs, the most popular models among consumers, the company first produced cars (G90, G80 and G70, in that order) before offering its first SUV.
A strange strategy, we must admit, but the manufacturer knew what it was doing. By going with cars and a smaller volume, they were quietly establishing their distribution network, fine-tuning their business model and making sure that everything was running smoothly in terms of quality (service and assembly).
It was one thing to promise the moon; it was another to be able to deliver it.
The result was that the first three years were not very successful in terms of sales. When the first SUV arrived, the trend was reversed. Then, when the second one (GV70) was introduced, it was the consecration.
Even though it’s only two years old, it’s the brand’s best-seller. It is already a star among buyers. The demand is barely being met.
And now the electric variant has arrived. Considering the ever-increasing popularity of battery-powered vehicles in Quebec, we must be talking about the arrival of a superstar.
Will it realize its full potential?
To take a closer look, we went to Atlanta, Georgia, where Genesis held the official launch of its model. Here’s what caught our eye.
Electric secret
2023 Genesis Electrified GV70 | Photo: Daniel Rufiange
Usually, manufacturers like to distinguish the styling of their electric models. That’s quite the opposite with this GV70, which shows no propulsion mode. The main clue is the grille, which not only has a closed surface (no need for air under the hood) but also hides a hatch that, in turn, hides the charging port. The bumper is slightly different, too, but you really have to look at it to notice.
To explain this approach, we need only look at the company’s philosophy and its target group research results. We’d like discretion among our customers.
Oh, there are no rear exhaust tips before you raise the point.
Besides, the GV70 already had attractive lines. Let’s just say that its electric counterpart has good entry-level features.
As for its structure, it’s a modified version of the platform that serves the regular model, with the batteries scattered in the floor. The emphasis is on rigidity, with gains of 24% in this area. The losses in volume inside are insignificant because they are so small.
The heart
2023 Genesis Electrified GV70 | Photo: Daniel Rufiange
To power this Electrified GV70, Genesis uses a two-motor configuration with a power output of 160 kW, each located on an axle, thus offering all-wheel drive. The battery size is 77.4-kWh.
All this translates into 429 horsepower, which can be increased to 483 when a button on the steering wheel marked B-O-O-S-T is pressed. The effect lasts 10 seconds and can be repeated endlessly. Even braking does not cancel the effect.
Is it useful? No, because there is already enough power for any overtaking. Is it fun? Yes, it is! We won’t kid ourselves; however, it’s a trick that’s there to sell because we can talk about more impressive figures. It’s a good idea.
As for the range, it is estimated at 383 kilometres. That’s good, but we would have liked more. We’ll have to see if more ambitious versions will eventually be offered.
What about charging? Thanks to its 800-volt architecture, the Electrified GV70 is able to offer fast times. Genesis reports 18 minutes to get the charge from 10 to 80% at a 350-kW charging station, with a maximum output of 240 kW. According to the manufacturer, a 5-minute stop will recover 100 km of range. On a level 2 station, it shows a time of 7 hours. That’s 68 hours if you’re ever forced to use a simple power outlet.
One model
2023 Genesis Electrified GV70 | Photo: Daniel Rufiange
Only one version will be offered in Canada, the Prestige AWD. Its price, fixed and non-negotiable across the country, is $84,000.
Unsurprisingly, a glance at the equipment list confirms it’s a complete package. You get a model with an electronic suspension that analyzes the road ahead, driving modes, 20-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic roof, heated and ventilated front seats, a three-zone automatic climate control system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, wireless charging, Genesis Connected Services, V2L capability (which can send power back home to power what you want), and a slew of safety features and driving aids.
All of this is presented in a rich, unapologetic environment in its design and quality. Genesis impresses in this regard.
To finish with the interior, let’s mention the presence of two massive screens; 12.3 inches in place of the instrument cluster (head-up display included) and 14.5 inches in the center console for the multimedia system and navigation. The interior of our model, showing off the Glacier White colour, looked great. It will require all-weather monitoring, however, to keep its lustre.
Behind the wheel
2023 Genesis Electrified GV70 | Photo: Daniel Rufiange
It’s going to take more than half a day behind the wheel to get a full analysis of this vehicle, but the first contact was convincing. The performance is there. The Electrified GV70 model shows impressive poise on the road and impeccable comfort level.
After 45 minutes, the seat massage function even activates automatically; the royal treatment.
A word about regenerative braking. The fourth and final level allows for single-pedal driving with maximum energy recovery. There’s a difference, however. When you start in Level 4, all four wheels are on, which requires more energy. Blake Wanser, one of the engineers who worked on the Electrified GV70, explained that Level 3 was the most efficient. In fact, to get the most out of the system, you would have to slow down at level 4 and speed up again at level 3. Fortunately, this is easy to manage since you can use the steering wheel paddles to go up or down a level.
What’s next?
2023 Genesis Electrified GV70 | Photo: Daniel Rufiange
Undoubtedly, the Electrified GV70 has all the makings of a star in the Genesis lineup. The company is anticipating this.
What will be interesting to watch is the public response. With attractive pricing in the prestige segment, Genesis has attracted new buyers. With an Electrified GV70 priced at $84,000, some $95,000 with taxes, it appeals to the typical luxury customer. Convincing them will take more effort.
The good news is that the Electrified GV70 is honourable.
The post 2023 Genesis Electrified GV70: A Superstar is Coming appeared first on Motor Illustrated.
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