Experienced by Kimatni D. Rawlins
The GV70 luxury crossover from Korean automaker Genesis is the family breadwinner and continues its ascension with fresher technologies, human-centric amenities, and welcoming design themes. Representing 35% of total sales in 2024 (gas model only), the 2026 Genesis GV70 is defined by its sphere of influence, which has brought a broader, more diverse consumer platform to the young, decade-old company.
Genesis welcomed media to Houston, TX for the daring crossover’s North American First Drive Program, which continues to represent the automaker’s three pillars of success: being audacious, progressive, and distinctly Korean. Genesis has been forward-thinking since its debut, employing humble and authentic tactics to reach newfangled owners with its latest model. I have friends and family reaching out incessantly about the pros and cons of purchasing a Genesis, whether it’s the sporty G80 sedan or the redefining GV80 Coupe.
Launched in the United States in 2016, Genesis is competing well against legacy brands that have existed for over 100 years. For example, in 2023 Genesis sold an impressive 1 million vehicles globally. Thankfully, the 2026 GV70 is built in America and should avoid the new automotive tariffs. But we shall see. Yet, building factories in Alabama and Georgia was another form of ideation from South Korea that should pay off handsomely.
Physically, the GV70 is shapely with distinctive lines enhanced by a restyled G-Matrix Crest Grille, available 21″ 5-star alloy rims wrapped in Michelin Primacy Tour A/S tires (Sport model), dual trapezoidal exhaust tips embedded within the dark chrome diffuser, Genesis’ signature two-line headlamps and taillamps, and a newly designed rear spoiler that enhances performance. All ten color options draw inspiration from a geographic location like Ceres Blue, themed after the dwarf planet between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter. Pretty cool!
“GV70 is the most popular Genesis model in North America and the 2026 model year updates bring even more excitement to our SUV lineup,” said Tedros Mengiste, chief operating officer of Genesis Motor North America. “With its athletic appearance, updated cabin and elevated driving experience, we look forward to welcoming even more customers into our growing GV70 family.”
To start our day of touring, we rode out from Thompson Houston by Hyatt, to The Farmhouse for a few mid-morning hours. My drive partner and I selected a Mauna Red GV70 with 21″ wheels and large black brake calipers. The 3.5L V6 Twin-Turbo engine with 375-horsepower is adequate for the size and weight of the vehicle and pairs with AWD and an 8-speed automatic transmission. A smaller 2.5L Inline 4 Turbo producing 300-horsepower is the second powertrain choice. Strangely, there is a Launch Control mode that Genesis says improves off-the-line acceleration. However, this is not required for the power exerted during takeoffs.
Thoughtful engineering can be found in the Multi-Chamber Air Suspension, which monitors road inclines and adjusts vehicle height accordingly so the GV70 doesn’t bottom out. An Electronic Limited Slip Differential is available to help the SUV overcome wheel slip by providing torque to either the rear right or left wheel. This would particularly be useful in rainy conditions when driving on curvaceous roads.
Inside the EV’s inviting cabin guests will be appeased by jewelry-inspired controls and the new 27” OLED display that combines the instrument cluster and its digital white gauges with the navigation and infotainment screens. Additional tech includes a 16-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system that replaces the prior Lexicon system, Drive Mode Select with a new Terrain Mode, and customizable ambient lighting. Of course, Apple CarPlay or Android Auto and enhanced OTA connectivity are at your disposal. Four Nappa leather color options include Ultramarine Blue and Sevilla Red & Obsidian Black, which adorned our test vehicle. I loved the meaty, flat-bottom steering wheel (Sport model) with paddle shifters as well as the grid-patterned alloy pedals. Genesis also utilizes an oval-shaped theme inside the cockpit, such as the door handles.
Safety comes in the form of a bevy of advanced technologies including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 2, Lane Following Assist, Steering Wheel Hands-On Detection, Remote Smart Parking Assist 2, Digital Key 2, Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Departure Warning, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, Speed Bump Detection, Highway Driving Assist, Road Preview, Smart Cruise Control, Surround View Monitor, and Remote Smart Parking Assist. As you can see, the GV70 is well-rounded in the prevention department.
Monumental moments have manifested from the company’s brand-building pillars to comprise The Genesis Invitational golf tournament at Torrey Pines where 8 million dollars were raised for LA fire relief efforts. Genesis recently announced that they will be racing in 2026, another respected and highly-viewed platform to promote the brand. Then you have The Genesis House NY in the Meatpacking District and Genesis Design California, the company’s dedicated facility for creating next-generation models. Lastly, 68 Genesis dealerships have been completed in three years to offer customers a modern, luxurious experience to mirror the vehicles.
Uniquely, Genesis doesn’t try to be different; the automaker is different. It’s the Korean way to appease customers with ingenuity and ultimate hospitality. Pricing ranges from $47,985 to $84,000. Visit www.genesis.com for more information.
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