2026 Genesis GV70 Prestige 2.5T AWD Review

Lower monthly payments don’t have to mean sacrificing style. The 2026 Genesis GV70 Prestige 2.5T AWD proves you can get sharp looks, genuine comfort, and strong performance without the BMW or Mercedes price tag.

This isn’t just about saving money.

You’re getting all-wheel-drive confidence, 300 horsepower from a turbocharged engine, Nappa leather, and tech features that put this luxury SUV ahead of competitors charging thousands more. According to a 2025 U.S. News ranking, the GV70 earned a 9.2 out of 10 score, claiming the top spot among luxury compact SUVs.

This review breaks down exactly what makes the GV70 a smart choice for drivers who want both punch and polish, backed by Genesis’s industry-leading 5-year/100,000-km powertrain warranty. Stick around to see if this SUV delivers where it counts for your driving needs.

2026 Genesis GV70 Canadian Pricing and Trims

The 2026 Genesis GV70 Prestige 2.5T AWD offers strong value in the Luxury SUV segment with its features, performance options, and competitive pricing. According to a 2025 luxury SUV market report, the global luxury SUV market reached $228.32 billion in 2025, with compact SUVs representing the fastest-growing segment at 18% annual growth.

Overview of 2.5T Prestige and other trims

In Canada, the Genesis GV70 is offered in four trims, not counting the two electric trims. The base trims is the GV70 2.5T AWD, with a price tag of $60,000. The next higher trims is the GV70 Advanced tech Pacakge 2.5T AWD, with a price tag of $67,500. The next higher trim is the GV70 Prestige 2.5T AWD, with a price of $73,000. The top-of-the-line trim is the GV70 Sport 3.5T AWD, with a price of $84,000. These prices are inclusive of Freight & PDI, and the only options are paint and different interior colors/materials. The Europeans need to learn something from Genesis, and not bombard you with optional packages.

1. The 2.5T Prestige trim features a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-four engine that pumps out around 300 horsepower and pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
2. All-wheel drive is standard on both the 2.5T and the more powerful 3.5T trims, so you can tackle rough weather or twisty roads with confidence.
3. If power is your thing, the 3.5T trim gets a twin-turbo V6 engine packing 375 horsepower with sharp acceleration and smooth shifting.
4. Standard equipment includes a large 14.5-inch touchscreen display, advanced safety systems like blind-spot cameras, and plenty of comfort features.
5. Prestige models add Napa leather upholstery, real carbon fiber accents inside, premium sound from Bang & Olufsen, and active cabin noise cancellation for quiet rides.
6. Fuel efficiency sits at an estimated 11.7 l/100 km city and 8.4 l/100 km highway on the 2.5T AWD model, good numbers for this segment.
7. You get up to 3,500 pounds of towing capacity if properly equipped, enough for hauling bikes or jet skis on weekends.
8. Compared to European rivals at similar prices, Genesis loads in more standard tech features and high-end materials while keeping costs lower than brands like Mercedes-Benz or BMW.
9. Each trim level offers its own blend of technology features, comfort upgrades, and performance enhancements so you can pick what matters most for your daily drive or family trips.

Related: Genesis GV60 Review

Exterior Design

The 2026 Genesis GV70 Prestige 2.5T AWD turns heads with bold lines and fresh details. Sleek wheels, confident lighting, and sharp accents give this luxury SUV strong presence from every angle.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R_QWWS1re00

Updated styling and sharp aesthetics

A bold front grille grabs attention, finished with a dark chrome pattern and the signature G-Matrix design on the Sport version. Genesis unveiled these updates at a Los Angeles event in November 2024, marking the GV70’s first major refresh since its 2022 debut.

New 21-inch alloy wheels make a strong visual impact. Gloss black air curtains lend an aggressive flair to the front bumper.

Headlights now feature individual pixel elements with twin-split multi-LED cubes for a sharp look. According to Motor Trend, the updated front fascia includes “redesigned wheels, lights, and grille” that maintain the vehicle’s athletic elegance design philosophy. The color palette includes “Serious Blue,” a fresh gunmetal gray shade with a blue tinge and metal flake that pops in sunlight.

Moving to the back, you see a long rear spoiler and a third brake light. New LED taillights mirror the headlight style, creating visual cohesion from front to back. Unique badge styling adds another upscale touch along with an updated exterior profile.

These changes help the Prestige trim stand out among luxury SUVs.

Highlights of the Prestige trim

The Prestige trim stands out with its luxury features and sporty design touches. Nappa leather seats with detailed stitching fill the cabin, giving it a rich feel that rivals find hard to match.

A D-Cut steering wheel, inspired by racecars, provides comfortable grip and a bold look. Sport wheels, including 21-inch options, grab attention along with dark chrome trim for a sharp exterior.

You get power folding mirrors and a full 360-degree camera setup as standard. Six-piston Brembo brake calipers and adaptive suspension boost performance, ensuring both smooth rides and strong stopping power. Inside, adjustable ambient lighting lets you set the mood just how you like it.

At $73,000, this trim blends comfort, technology, and design for those who value luxury and performance.

Related: Genesis G70 Sedan Review

Interior, Comfort, and Features

Step inside, and you’ll notice this luxury SUV brings comfort to a new level. Sleek displays and premium audio set the scene for a high-end driving experience.

Napa leather and real carbon fiber accents

Nappa leather covers the seats. According to J.D. Power, genuine Nappa leather distinguishes itself from standard leather through a unique chrome-tanning process that creates an exceptionally soft, supple texture.

Genesis uses quilted patterns, two-tone leather, and bold orange contrast stitching that pop against the clean cabin. Real carbon fiber accents line the dashboard and doors, giving a sporty edge and a tactile upgrade over standard plastic trim.

Bright orange seat belts and Alcantara on the rear seats add more style. Both front seats feature firm bolstering, smooth piping, and full electric controls for top comfort.

Spacious door pockets keep keys or valuables close by. Genesis even boasts lockable storage sized for up to four Rolex watches. Premium finishes meet smart ergonomics at every turn here, making even daily drives feel special.

“Luxury is in each detail.” (Hubert de Givenchy)

27-inch OLED display and Bang & Olufsen sound system

A new 27-inch OLED display stretches across the dashboard in the 2026 Genesis GV70. This single, clear panel replaces the older dual-screen setup, blending digital gauges with infotainment features all in one place.

According to A Girls Guide to Cars, “the screen uses a faster processor, making it more responsive and allowing wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.” Drivers can view backup and 360-degree camera feeds on this wide screen without shifting their focus too far from the road.

Bang & Olufsen supplies a standard premium audio system for Advanced and Sport Prestige trims. Sixteen speakers fill the cabin with deep sound quality.

Physical controls give quick access to comfort settings. Ventilated seats and a scent dispersal system keep everything fresh during long drives.

Improved cabin noise isolation and ride comfort

Moving from the high-tech features, you’ll notice that cabin noise isolation in the 2026 Genesis GV70 Prestige sets a new standard. Genesis installed extra insulation around the wheel wells to absorb booming sounds from tires and pavement.

Hollow channels inside the new 21-inch wheels act as Helmholtz resonators. These engineering tricks block unwanted noise before it gets into the cabin.

Active Noise Cancellation technology uses microphones and speakers to cancel out harsh sounds. According to owner reviews on Kelley Blue Book, 83% of GV70 owners recommend the vehicle, with many praising its “superb cabin noise isolation” that rivals more expensive luxury brands.

Riding comfort gets a big upgrade too. Genesis revised spring rates and sway bars for smoother travel over bumps.

Adaptive dampers on upper trims respond instantly by reading road data from cameras and maps. They soften or stiffen according to changes ahead, keeping body motion under control. Every passenger benefits from less shake, less body roll, and a calm ride even with a firm performance setup underneath.

Technology and Infotainment

The 2026 Genesis GV70 Prestige packs useful technology into its luxury SUV cabin. Drivers get sharp displays and clear driver info right in sight.

Audio, phone, and safety features feel easy to reach, even with all the high-end tech at your fingertips.

Blind-spot cameras and head-up display

Blind-spot view monitor shows a live camera feed right in your dash each time you use the turn signal. This makes lane changes and highway merges much safer, since you can see cars hiding in your blind spot.

According to U.S. News, this feature is available on Advanced and Sport Prestige trims and “displays a video feed in the instrument cluster of the left or right blind spot when the turn signal is activated.”

Prestige trim brings a head-up display that projects navigation, speed, and safety alerts onto the windshield. This keeps your eyes up and focused on the road. Genesis packs this SUV with a 360-degree camera system, helping you park in tight spaces or move through crowded lots without breaking a sweat.

Standard blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control give you solid assistance on every drive. These features boost visibility and help you stay aware of what is around your vehicle at all times.

Physical controls and redesigned wireless charging pad

The 2026 Genesis GV70 Prestige stands out with its redesigned center console and D-Cut steering wheel, which take cues from the racetrack. Physical rotary knobs offer a direct way to adjust climate control.

These replace clumsy swipe-only panels, making it much easier to tweak the HVAC while driving. For backseat passengers, rear climate settings now use an all-touch panel for quick access.

Rotary knobs sit on the center console to manage both infotainment functions and transmission selection. The wireless charging pad has moved closer within easy reach.

According to Motor Trend’s 2026 review, Genesis “redesigned” the wireless phone charger, relocating it “from a cupholder-style setup to a neatly integrated pad tucked beneath the front lip of the center console lid.” Cup holders and a hidden storage spot in front keep valuables handy but out of sight.

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto run right in the instrument cluster for distraction-free drive time.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The turbo engine puts out strong horsepower, making this luxury SUV quick off the line. Smooth shifts and a steady ride give you a confident driving experience every time you hit the road.

300-hp 2.5T engine specifications

Power comes from a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-four engine. This unit delivers 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, outperforming competitors like the BMW X3 (248 hp) and Mercedes-Benz GLC (255 hp) in base configurations. All-wheel drive is standard, giving strong grip on most roads.

The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts quickly and keeps the ride smooth in city traffic or at highway speeds.

According to NRCAn, the 2026 Genesis GV70 with the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine should consume 11.7/8.4/10.2 liters/100 kilometers in city/highway/combined driving. For my week long review, the onboard computer showed an average of 11.3 liters/100 kilometers in 60/40 city/highway driving.

With proper equipment, towing capacity reaches up to 3,500 pounds. Genesis, Hyundai, and Kia design both the engine and gearbox themselves, sticking to a classic gas-powered layout with no hybrid components to complicate things.

Driving dynamics and suspension updates

Spring rates and sway bars now feel different in the 2026 Genesis GV70 Prestige 2.5T AWD. Hydraulic bushings boost comfort immediately, smoothing out rougher city roads.

Adaptive dampers on upper trims use a front windshield camera and navigation info to react ahead of bumps or potholes. According to Motor Trend, Genesis claims these sensors achieve 99% accuracy for adjustments, using “a front camera, sensors, and navigation data to anticipate road imperfections.”

Real-time data from gyro sensors, steering angle, and wheel speed means continuous suspension calibration as you drive. Body control is tighter during hard braking.

Stability at high speeds remains strong thanks to crosswind mitigation tech that adjusts both brakes and suspension under heavy gusts. Improvements in NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) cut wind and road noise almost to electric car levels for a quiet cabin atmosphere.

Transmission behavior shifts smoothly while the steering gives better feedback than before, putting you more in tune with every turn or straightaway.

Transmission behavior and steering feel

Suspension tweaks bring better ride comfort, but the real story moves to transmission behavior and steering feel. The updated 8-speed torque converter aims to cut drivetrain vibration, yet shift logic remains much like before.

You still get some jerky moves from the transmission, especially at low speeds or while stopping. Sport modes only make these shifts more noticeable.

Variable Gear Ratio Steering comes into play with faster initial moves and relaxed angles as you turn more sharply. It works mechanically for a direct feel. The steering is weightier than most rivals but gives richer feedback on Prestige trims thanks to a sturdier wheel and dynamic damper that soaks up small vibrations.

Comfort mode helps mask transmission flaws for easy city driving. Switching to Sport brings out every little hiccup in gear changes.

The V6 variant goes further by adding a limited-slip differential and improved damper system for even sharper performance dynamics out on the road.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The 2026 Genesis GV70 Prestige packs smart safety features like active noise control and advanced driver aids. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the 2025 GV70 earned the prestigious TOP SAFETY PICK+ designation for vehicles built after April 2024, making Genesis “the automotive brand with the most TSP+ ratings” as of September 2024.

Standard and optional safety technologies

Safety gets top priority in the 2026 Genesis GV70 Prestige. You get a packed list of advanced safety features, many as standard, some as extras for those who want even more.

1. Genesis includes automated emergency braking and pedestrian detection in every GV70. These technologies watch the road and help stop or slow the SUV if danger shows up ahead.
2. Lane-keeping assist comes standard too. It helps keep you centered on the highway, making long drives less stressful and safer.
3. Adaptive cruise control is part of every trim package. It keeps your speed steady and can slow down or speed up with traffic, which makes stop-and-go driving much easier.
4. Blind-spot monitoring uses cameras to alert you if other vehicles are hiding beside you, while available blind-spot cameras show clear live video on your dash screen when turning or changing lanes.
5. Prestige trim drivers see key info projected onto the windshield with a head-up display, keeping eyes closer to the road at all times.
6. A surround-view camera system can be added. This feature gives you a bird’s-eye view for easier parking and tight maneuvers in crowded spaces.
7. Genesis boosts confidence with active noise cancellation and improved ride comfort bundled in their driver-assistance package to ensure a peaceful cabin even during tough rides.
8. Safety rating scores are high with a 9.4 out of 10 based on feedback from experts including IIHS and NHTSA. The 2025 GV70 also received a 5-star overall rating from NHTSA.
9. Multiple advanced options stand out such as rear cross-traffic alert and safe-exit warnings, giving extra protection day-to-day.

Active noise cancellation and driving aids

The 2026 Genesis GV70 Prestige takes soundproofing and driver assistance to a higher level. You get smart safety features that work together for a smooth, confident ride.

1. Active Noise Control (ANC) uses the Bang & Olufsen audio system to block low-frequency vibrations and outside noise, making the cabin quieter on any road.
2. Active noise cancellation works with improved cabin seals and thicker glass, which helps reduce wind and road sounds even at highway speeds.
3. Electronically controlled suspension with Road Preview technology reads the road ahead. It adjusts damping in real-time for better comfort and stability.
4. Crosswind mitigation keeps you centered during strong gusts by using selective braking and suspension tweaks at high speeds.
5. Radar-assisted adaptive cruise control tracks cars around you using sensors. It slows down or speeds up as traffic changes, even considering body motion in stop-and-go situations.
6. Blind-spot cameras display clear views in your digital cluster during lane changes so you can check your surroundings without guesswork.
7. Parking sensors work with the surround-view system to make tight spots stress-free. Upper trims add remote parking assist so you can step out while the car parks itself.
8. Computer algorithms monitor driving conditions non-stop, changing settings for traction, steering feel, and more to give you better grip and control when roads get slick or busy.
9. Head-up display shows speed, navigation instructions, and alerts on your windshield. This lets you keep your eyes up for better road safety without distraction.
10. Most driver-assistance features come standard in the Prestige trim. Systems help prevent collisions or drift from lanes so daily driving stays safer for you and others.

Cargo and Space

The 2026 Genesis GV70 Prestige 2.5T AWD offers comfortable rear seats and useful storage. This makes the luxury SUV stand out in its class.

Rear-seat comfort and storage capacity

Rear-seat comfort strikes a nice balance between style and utility. Alcantara trim on the seats looks sharp and feels upscale.

Rear seats are heated, though not ventilated, and include manual sunshades. A panoramic sunroof with a power shade offers a bright, airy vibe in the back. The seat backs can recline for longer rides, but do not slide backward or forward.

Space is decent for kids or average-sized adults, though taller men might find it a bit snug. According to Car and Driver testing, the GV70 “fit seven carry-on suitcases behind the rear seats and 22 in total with the rear seats stowed.”

Cargo and storage space work well for an active lifestyle. There are 28.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which expands to 56.9 cubic feet with the 60/40 split seatbacks folded flat.

The low loading floor and wide opening make it easy to pack in sports gear or weekend bags. Rear passengers have two USB-C ports to charge devices plus a home-style power outlet for laptops or coolers, showing thoughtful design for convenience and daily use.

Comparison to competitors in the segment

The 2026 Genesis GV70 Prestige 2.5T AWD lands right in the heat of the luxury compact SUV fight. Here’s how it stacks up against heavy hitters like the BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC, and Audi Q5.

Pros and Cons

Weighing the pros and cons of the 2026 Genesis GV70 Prestige 2.5T AWD helps highlight its standout performance, comfort-focused interior features, and active safety technology.

Key advantages of the 2026 Genesis GV70 Prestige

Sharp looks make the 2026 Genesis GV70 Prestige stand out. The modern design, both inside and outside, turns heads on any street.

Top-notch materials fill the cabin. Napa leather seats and real carbon fiber trim show clear attention to style and comfort.

A massive 27-inch OLED display greets you up front. It pairs with a Bang & Olufsen sound system for strong tech appeal.

This luxury SUV packs strong performance with a 300-hp 2.5-liter turbo engine. Quick acceleration puts it ahead of most in its price range.

Handling feels tight in corners, yet ride comfort stays smooth over bumps. Advanced safety tech comes standard, including blind-spot cameras, a head-up display, physical controls for easy use, plus active noise cancellation for a quiet drive.

According to U.S. News, more than 85,000 GV70s have been sold since the model’s 2022 launch, making it Genesis’s bestselling vehicle and accounting for one in three Genesis sales in North America.

Notable drawbacks to consider

Transmission behavior in the 2026 Genesis GV70 Prestige 2.5T AWD still feels jerky, especially once you switch into sport modes. Some drivers notice a heavier steering feel compared to other options like the BMW X3 or Audi Q5.

Rear-seat space and cargo capacity fall in the middle of the pack, trailing leaders like the Mercedes-Benz GLC or Lexus RX. There is no hybrid option for buyers wanting better efficiency, while competitors like the BMW X3 xDrive30e, Mercedes GLC 350e, and Audi Q5 plug-in hybrid all offer electrified powertrains.

The smart parking assist feature stays exclusive to last year’s V6 model. It’s missing here despite the high $70,000+ price tag. A few cabin controls are awkwardly placed as well, so they can be tough to use on the go.

According to Consumer Reports reliability surveys, some early GV70 owners reported issues with transfer case and differential components, though Genesis has addressed these concerns in recent production. For some shoppers seeking more features per dollar, value might not meet expectations at this level of cost.

2026 GEnesis GV70 Review Final Thoughts

The 2026 Genesis GV70 Prestige 2.5T AWD stands out as a sharp, high-performing luxury SUV with strong AllWheel Drive and a plush interior packed with comfort and technology features.

You get real Nappa leather, carbon fiber accents, top safety tech like blind-spot cameras, plus smooth driving from its turbocharged engine and agile suspension. Drivers will find the controls easy to use and love the peace from improved cabin sound dampening during every trip.

With practical storage space and competitive pricing when compared to European rivals, this vehicle delivers both value and style. Are you ready to try all these smart upgrades for yourself?

Explore more about performance specifications or even schedule a test drive at your local Genesis Motors dealer today.

People also ask