What is it?

Genesis isn’t such a newcomer anymore, having first arrived with a swathe of models. Since then, the range has been trimmed down with the Electrified GV70 occupying a core position.

Now, Genesis has seen fit to update this crucial electric SUV, introducing a series of upgrades to its design and in-car technology. This segment is mighty popular, mind you, so these changes need to be good to keep the GV70 at the top of its game.

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What’s new?

Genesis hasn’t radically changed what underpins the GV70, focusing instead on the bits you interact with inside. Outside, the GV70’s design has been finessed and feels a little more thought out as a result – the indicators are located higher up than before, so they’re easier to see, for instance.

There’s a whole lot of technology on-board the GV70 now, too. There’s an optional UV-C sterilised box which can sterilise your belongings using ultraviolet light, while a new ‘Mood Curator’ offers four different interior settings and brings with it tailored music, an aroma diffuser and changed ambient lighting.

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What’s under the bonnet?

The GV70 is now electric-only, but Genesis has finessed the setup underneath this model. There’s a new 84kWh battery, too, which Genesis says can return up to 298 miles of range from a single charge. The GV70 also benefits from 800v-volt architecture, which means you can charge it at speeds of up to 350kW, making it one of the fastest-charging EVs available to buy today. Find an ultra-rapid charger and the GV70 can go from 10 to 80 per cent charge in 19 minutes as a result.

What’s it like to drive?

The previous GV70 offered a luxurious driving experience and it’s no different for this new version. At present, the GV70 is only available with a dual-motor setup developing an impressive 483bhp, which means a zero to 60mph time of under five seconds. In truth, the GV70 needn’t be this fast; it’s happier at a more level cruise where its good refinement and decent ride feel at their very best. With its wheel-mounted boost mode engaged the GV70 delivers sports car-rivalling performance, but it actually feels much happier mooching about instead.

The steering isn’t the most communicative, but then that’s par for the course in this segment. Given that all cars ride on 20-inch wheels as standard, the GV70’s ride is impressive but we do think it could be even more relaxing on smaller alloys.

How does it look?

As mentioned, GV70 hasn’t radically altered the look of the GV70 but instead refined it. The headlights, for instance, retain the two-line design but now get Micro Lens Array technology for better illumination overall. The front grille has been redesigned, too, and while it still incorporates the charging port, this is now powered and heated so it won’t freeze over when it starts to get chilly.

You’ve also got 13 colour options to choose from with matte, metallic, pearl and solid finishes available. They all look pretty classy, too, with greens and dark blues helping to give the GV70 quite an old-school look to it.

What’s it like inside?

It’s inside where you’ll notice more changes if you’re familiar with the previous GV70. Core to the update is a new 27-inch infotainment system which combines the main media screen with a driver’s display under one streamlined piece of glass. It looks great and is packed with information, while the rotary controller is a refreshing contrast to the touchscreen-only systems operated by rivals.

Space-wise, things aren’t bad though taller rear-seat passengers may feel a little cramped, particularly if there’s an equally-tall driver or passenger ahead of you. The 503-litre boot is about right for the segment, and larger than the 500-litre boot that you’ll find in the Mercedes EQC. Fold down the rear seats and this can be increased to a helpful 1,590 litres, too.

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What’s the spec like?

Standard versions get lots of equipment included. Features such as a powered boot, wireless smartphone charging pad and heated front seats and steering wheel. There’s also fingerprint recognition, which means you can unlock and lock the car simply by pressing a pad on the pillar. A clever electronic control system ‘reads’ the road ahead and can automatically change the suspension if it detects a pothole or road imperfection.

Verdict

The Electrified GV70 might be seen as an alternative to the mainstream, but it’s a very compelling electric vehicle in its own right. We’d steer clear of the top-spec version, simply because it bumps the car’s price too high, but entry-level models deliver a high level of standard equipment so you needn’t feel short changed.

Our only criticism is levelled at the performance – we’d reduce the GV70’s power and unlock a little more range to make this car even better.

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Facts at a glance

Model as tested: Genesis Electrified GV70

Engine: Dual electric motors

Power: 483bhp

Torque: 700Nm

Max speed: 146mph

0-60mph: 4.8 seconds

MPG: NA

Emissions: 0g/km

Range: 298 miles

Maximum charge speed: 350kW