CHATHAM, Mass. – The electrification of Hyundai Motor Group’s luxury/premier Genesis brand has included both ground-up battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) like the GV60 as well as redesigned electrified versions of its successful models, like the 2023 Electrified GV70 Prestige I had the pleasure to recently test.
The 2023 Genesis GV70 is the compact sport utility in the brand’s portfolio, slotted between the aforementioned GV60 subcompact and the GV80 midsize models. The internal-combustion engined (ICE) version is a terrific vehicle, providing excellent performance, luxurious appointments and a full complement of technology, including advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).
The new electrified version retains those characteristics, with the 375-horsepower ICE, transmission and all-wheel-drive (AWD) system of the original replaced by dual electric motors producing even more power and near silent operation.
Power without drama
With a 160 kW/215 hp motor at each end of the GV70 Electrified providing AWD performance, the EV version increases the performance parameters thanks to 429 hp and 526 pounds-feet of torque. And depressing the steering-wheel mounted “BOOST” button provides a 10-second shot of 483 hp, which can propel the 5,000-pound machine past the century mark within that time frame! (Car and Driver achieved 0-60 times of 3.8 seconds and 0-100 of 9.4!)
The power is delivered smoothly without drama, and immediately, thanks to the 100-percent torque at zero RPM nature of electric motors. It also comes on quietly making the Genesis a stealth performer.
Using this kind of power, which I tried in just a short burst (Cape Cod and most of Massachusetts in which I drove are not set up for supercar blasts) has one drawback – faster depletion of the 77.4 kW battery pack.
The battery can provide up to 236 miles of range (though I saw indications of longer range during my time behind the wheel), which, again, is dependent upon things like weather and how one drives.
Genesis has engineered a number of features to help extend the battery’s range like the Disconnector Actuator System (DAS) which automatically connects or disconnects the motor and drive shaft depending on driving conditions. This enables seamless switching between 2WD and AWD, ultimately helping reduce unnecessary power loss and increasing driving efficiency.
Replenishing the battery pack is enhanced over most EVs with the addition of 350kW rapid charging capability. This enables the 77.4 kWh battery to charge from 10 to 80 percent in approximately 18 minutes, or more than 60 miles in five minutes under optimal conditions.
Additionally, the 400V/800V multi-rapid on-board charging system allows owners to utilize various forms of charging infrastructure. The multi-rapid charging system enables fast and stable charging by raising the voltage supplied by typical chargers from 400V to 800V, and owners can use both 400V and 800V charging infrastructure without the need for an additional converter.
Maximizing the Electrified GV70’s charge was easy for me as each night I simply plugged in my garage-mounted Autel MaxiCharger AC Wallbox Home unit’s cable and replaced the electricity used during the day.
The Electrified GV70 driving experience is further enhanced with Smart Regenerative Braking System 2.0, which regenerates energy through the braking system based on driving habits, real-time navigation, and road conditions. In driving mode, the Intelligent Pedal (i-Pedal) allows the driver to accelerate, decelerate, and slowly to a stop using just the accelerator pedal; in other words, one-pedal driving.
ADAS tech fit for range topper
The Genesis Electrified GV70 Prestige denotes the top of this model’s range and as such has an extensive roster of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). This technology, which is not obvious in most cases to the naked eye while enhances driving, includes: Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist; Lane Keeping Assist; Lane Following Assist; Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance-Assist; Blind-Spot View Monitor; Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance-Assist; Highway Driving Assist; Smart Cruise Control w/ Stop & Go; Intelligent Speed Limit Assist; Driver Attention Warning; High Beam Assist; Surround View Monitor; Parking Distance Warning; Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist – Reverse; Remote Smart Parking Assist, and Safe Exit Assist.
And technology throughout the premium interior
Premium, prestige, luxury, regardless of the descriptor, the Electrified GV70 Prestige is a very comfortable vehicle in which to spend time, whether a long road trip or short jaunts around town. I have talked about the quiet performance of this SUV which is matched by its excellent, controlled road manners.
In Prestige mode, this Genesis parks its occupants within Nappa-leather-covered seats (power adjustable with heat and ventilation up front; heat in the second row). The driver also has a massage feature, adjustable thigh bolster and power shoulder bolsters (to further hold the driver during spirited driving).
The heart of the navigation-included infotainment system is a 14.5-inch touchscreen at the top of the dash. In addition to touch control, the various systems covered on screen can be activated by a rotating knob on the console, voice activation and controls on the (heated) steering wheel and dash.
The system’s sound is projected through a 16-speaker Lexicon® premium audio system.
Speaking of sound, another Prestige feature, first introduced on the Genesis GV80, is the Active Noise Control – Road which reduces incoming sound from the road by producing an inverted soundwave enabling passengers to have a more comfortable driving experience.
Does it work? I am not sure, but the Electrified GV70 Prestige is a very quiet vehicle, without any major outside-noise intrusion.
Electrified continues the excellence of the GV70
The Prestige package (which adds $6,800 to the “standard” Electrified GV70 Advanced model’s $65,850 base price) brings added driver information screen space with a 12.3-inch cluster on the dash and comprehensive heads-up display (which includes ADAS information) on the windshield.
This is a wonderful vehicle. Not too large, but roomy for four full-size adults and their stuff. The ride was always comfortable, without being cushy or soft, while the handling was taught and responsive, what I have come to expect from the Genesis brand.
The Genesis Electrified GV70 Prestige AWD might not be a ground-up battery-electric vehicle, but it proves with thorough engineering, reengineered ICE vehicles can make superb BEVs.
