When I was scheduled to review the Genesis GV70 electric, I wasn’t expecting much. I assumed it was a rebadged Hyundai trying to be another heavy overly designed BMW/Mercedes wannabe. Apon receiving the keys and stepping inside, I was immediately proven wrong… and thank God. The Genesis GV70 on its own is a fantastic car, but add a ridiculously powerful electric engine, and a button on the steering wheel that says “boost” and you make for one insanely happy automotive journalist.
Unmatched Power, Lingering Challenges
In day-to-day scenarios, the GV70 proves itself as a highly capable car, standing shoulder to shoulder with its German competitors. It seamlessly fulfills practical roles, excelling as a reliable choice for school runs and grocery-getting – the likely routine for most owners. Positioned on the smaller scale of crossover EVs, it maneuvers adeptly through city streets, and effortlessly tackles the occasional out of city excursions as well.
However, the GV70 reveals an entirely different persona on the track. Its transformation from a mundane daily driver to a relentless track animal is nothing short of remarkable. The acceleration, clocking in at a mere 4.2 seconds from zero to 100km/h, catapults this seemingly ordinary car into the realm of a bloodthirsty speedster.
As I unleashed the GV70 on the track, the dynamics shifted dramatically. The 2.5-tonne weight and a drag coefficient of 0.28 became pronounced factors, affecting the overall performance. The initial acceleration delivered a thrill, but as the speedometer climbed, the efficiency waned. The entire power spectrum, focused on aggressive cornering and rapid acceleration on the straights, showcased the GV70's split personality – a practical urban cruiser transforming into a high-performance beast on the track.
Navigating the Weight and Drag Conundrum
The performance of the GV70 Electric, like any electric vehicle, is inextricably linked to its weight and aerodynamics. The promise of a top-tier electric SUV is tantalizing for the average suburban parent, but the reality of a 2.5-tonne mass can't be overlooked. The drag coefficient of 0.28, though not terrible, does affect the overall efficiency, especially at higher speeds. This weight and drag conundrum poses a challenge for the GV70 Electric, impacting not only its acceleration but also the driving dynamics as a whole.
The Power Behind the Range: Battery Dynamics
While the large battery pack contributes significantly to the GV70 Electric's robust driving range of 445km on the WLTP cycle, its spatial occupancy raises questions about practicality. Situated beneath the floor and encroaching upon the rear seat space, the battery pack sacrifices cargo capacity and slightly compromises passenger comfort. This compromise, however, seems almost inevitable in the pursuit of an extended driving range, forcing potential buyers to weigh the benefits against the trade-offs.
Dollars and Sense: The Price Quandary
The luxurious facade of the GV70 Electric comes at a considerable cost – a starting price of $127,800 plus on-road costs in Australia. A staggering $45,000 more than its petrol-engine counterpart raises eyebrows and sets a high bar for justification. While the allure of cutting-edge electric technology is undeniable, the hefty price tag might deter prospective buyers, especially when considering the rapidly evolving landscape of electric vehicles and their competitive pricing.
Balancing Act: Features and Drawbacks
As I navigated through various driving scenarios, the GV70 Electric's advanced features stood out. Adaptive LED headlights with high beam assist, a fingerprint authentication system, and a comprehensive suite of safety features added a layer of sophistication. However, for all its technological prowess, the GV70 Electric is not without its drawbacks. Thick pillars and small windows hampered visibility, impacting the ease of navigation. The ride quality, though comfortable on highways, tended towards harshness, and the cabin noise dampened the expected level of refinement. These drawbacks, however, are very easy to get used to.
Beyond the Dashboard: User Experience and Interior Design
Inside the GV70 Electric, the ambiance exuded luxury. High-quality materials, well-crafted finishes, and cutting-edge technology contributed to an elegant interior. However, I had to scrutinise the practicality of the interior design just a bit. The compromise on rear seat space due to the battery pack raised questions about the overall comfort, especially for those who are all, like me. The user experience, while technologically advanced, is not immune to the challenges posed by a crowded electric SUV market, demanding more than just opulence, and technical advancement.
A Technological Symphony: Elevating the Driving Experience
Inside the GV70 Electric, the technological symphony orchestrated by its infotainment system stands as a testament to the car's commitment to enhancing the driving experience. The interior, wrapped in opulence, seamlessly blends high-quality materials with cutting-edge technology, creating an ambiance that caters to both functionality and luxury. The feature-rich infotainment system, adorned with a myriad of functions, not only meets but exceeds expectations. Navigating through the touch screen is a breeze, offering responsiveness that aligns with the seamless integration expected in contemporary vehicles. In an era where connectivity and ease of use are paramount, the GV70 Electric's infotainment system steps up to the challenge. Intuitive controls ensure that accessing various functions, even during driving conditions, is not only straightforward but also enhances safety by minimizing distractions. The user interface, thoughtfully designed, strikes a balance between modern aesthetics and practicality, presenting information in an easily digestible format. As the GV70 Electric maneuvers through urban landscapes and embarks on longer journeys, the infotainment system plays a crucial role in elevating the overall driving experience, transforming the mundane into a symphony of technological delight and leaving drivers not just satisfied but eager to explore the endless possibilities it presents.
Charging Dynamics: The Fast and the Furious
One undeniable feather in the GV70 Electric's cap is its fast-charging capability. Claiming to charge from 10 to 80 per cent in just 18 minutes using a DC fast charger, it beckons to those who crave the convenience of quick pit stops. These seemingly great charging speeds depend on the availability and accessibility of fast-charging infrastructure, potentially leaving some owners in a quandary about the ease of maintaining the touted fast-charging prowess.
The Road to Enjoyment: Elevating Driving Comfort and Engagement
As I settled into the driver's seat for an extended drive, the GV70 Electric transformed the journey into a positively nuanced experience. Reveling in its comfort, the electric SUV showcased its prowess on lengthy highway trips, where its serene demeanor and seamless ride quality truly stood out. While delivering exceptional comfort for these extended excursions, the seamless power of the electric engine became a bit boring. The novelty of having instant power under your foot does get old, but it never stops being fun. And when you return back to your normal car, you WILL miss it.
The Genesis GV70 Electric in Context: A Market Perspective
In the rapidly evolving landscape of electric SUVs, the Genesis GV70 Electric enters the stage with ambition. Yet, in a market teeming with viable competition, it grapples with the delicate balance of pricing, performance, and overall appeal. The challenges it faces – from weight and aerodynamics to the compromises made for battery placement – reflect the broader struggles within the electric SUV segment. As the industry hurtles towards innovation, the GV70 Electric must carve a distinct niche to stand out amongst its peers.
The Verdict: A Luxury SUV Seeking Perfection
In conclusion, the 2023 Genesis GV70 Electric is a commendable foray into the electric SUV market by the Hyundai-owned luxury brand Genesis. It encapsulates power, luxury, and advanced features but falls short in justifying its premium price tag, especially when compared to its petrol-engine counterpart. The compromises in performance, efficiency, and driving engagement, coupled with the challenges posed by weight and aerodynamics, paint a nuanced picture of a luxury SUV striving for perfection. While not inherently flawed, the GV70 Electric faces stiff competition in a market that demands excellence, leaving potential buyers to carefully weigh their priorities and desires before embarking on the electric journey it offers.
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