2022 Genesis G70

Pros: Exhilarating performance, especially with V6 engine; classy cabin trimmings

Cons: Cramped rear seat; stingy front-door apertures; lacks established brand prestige of class competitors

CG Says: For 2022, the Genesis G70 receives a significant refresh that includes bolder front and rear styling, updated interior materials, a revised dash with an upsized infotainment screen, and enhanced driver-aid features. The 6-speed manual transmission, which was previously offered on the G70’s 4-cylinder engine, is no longer available.

Hyundai’s fledgling luxury division introduced this premium compact sport sedan for the 2019 model year. The Genesis G70 joined the G80 and G90 premium large sedans in Genesis’s model lineup; it competes with cars such as the Audi A4, BMW 3-Series, and Lexus IS.

Two turbocharged engines are available for the 2022 Genesis G70: a 252-horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder and a 365-hp 3.3-liter V6. Both powerplants can be had with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. All G70s have an 8-speed automatic transmission. Available safety features include blind-spot alert, lane-keep assist, driver-attention monitor, and autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian detection.

The G70 is easily the most performance-oriented car yet from the Genesis brand, and it stacks up remarkably well to established sport-sedan rivals. It offers athletic moves and invigorating acceleration with the V6 engine, along with a wonderfully executed cabin that perfectly blends sportiness and luxury. The downsides are fairly typical for the class—a cramped rear seat, and so-so fuel economy with the “hot” engine. Genesis still has a way to go before the brand has the same recognition as its established rivals, but vehicles like the G70 will help it get there.