The G70, a luxury sports sedan representing Genesis, has been reborn with a higher level of perfection in 2023. The interior and exterior design and convenience specifications were refined to add charm, and the most important key change is the gasoline 2.5 turbo engine, which has significantly upgraded performance instead of the previously installed gasoline 2.0 turbo engine. As a result, the maximum output reaches 304 horsepower, which is more than 50 horsepower higher than before, and the maximum torque provides 43.0 kgf m, an increase of 7.0 kgf m. In addition, front-wheel Brembo monoblock (4P) brakes with excellent braking performance are standard. This enhances the perfection by further refining the driving performance of the most dynamic model in the Genesis lineup.
Three columnists specializing in automobiles with extensive and in-depth automobile knowledge and excellent driving skills - Ki-beom Kim, Stefan Rah, and Tae-young Kim - analyzed the characteristics of the 2023 G70. They observed how much better the performance of the G70 with the enhanced power system would be, and how perfected the luxurious driving feeling that the Genesis brand is aiming for.
‘Dynamic Driving Pleasure’. Genesis defines the core of the G70 as follows. In general, ‘pleasure’ refers to a sense of achievement in the process. It’s a little different from the ‘joy’ or ‘happiness’ that follows the achievement of a goal. However, the interpretation of pleasure is different depending on the subject or situation. Of course, they have something in common - it involves three stages: intention, execution (manipulation), and result.
According to a study by the University of Freiburg in Germany in 1965, about one second before the brain initiates a conscious movement, it starts an unconscious activity to prepare for it. This is the so-called ‘Motor Readiness Potential’. In driving, this is intention. Examples of this are when to brake when going into a corner, how much to bend the steering wheel, and how to develop acceleration.
Intent is influenced by later steps. For example, when it leads to positive results as much as or more than the intention, a sense of achievement springs up. By repeating this process, you unconsciously build confidence and ultimately get exhilarating fun and enjoyment. These structures circulate with each other. It is difficult to pinpoint the factors that will influence this process in automobiles. This is why the combination of mechanical transmission properties is important.
The in-line 4-cylinder turbo engine of the G70, whose displacement has been increased to 2.5 liters (2,497 ㏄), poured out torque even before the digital tachometer hit 2,000 rpm. The winding road seemed to be sucked in vigorously and then stretched loosely, following the movement of my right foot. Even without the engine red hot, this car can easily hit and run at any time, so it always makes me feel relaxed. The engine emits a maximum torque of 43.0 kgf m straight from 1,650 to 4,000 rpm. The initial acceleration of each stage is intense, enough to satisfy the craving for speed. The maximum output exceeds the symbolic number ‘300’.
This is also the background for upgrading the basic engine while maintaining the performance gap with the 3.3 turbo. However, the concentration of torque gradually fades as much as the resistance proportional to the acceleration. Even the torque band, which is numerically quite wide, goes by in an instant unless it’s in the top gear. The 8-speed automatic transmission focuses on flexibility rather than stimulation. It is for the same reason that the vibration-reducing torque converter emphasized smooth response. As a result, the new G70 was made so that an unspecified number of people could be sufficiently satisfied and relieved.
Now, back to the cornering story; the masters move smoothly and there are no unnecessary steps. The movement of the new G70 shows that it has been maturing through careful adjustment and improvement since its debut in 2017. Controls and reactions have also become very close. The bonnet gently turns whenever I slightly inwardly wrap my thumb across the spokes and rim of the steering wheel. The handling performance, which pays attention to the front and rear balance, lies between agility and leisure, and between tension and comfort. Don’t worry too much if you get excited about the bend and drive rough. G70 skillfully caressing and relentlessly purifies. The ride is clean, and the handling is honest without exaggeration or distortion. The story is the same in sport mode. It gives the driver exactly as much reaction as expected, and the road surface information is neatly refined and delivered.
The G70 is a striker that will expand the influence of the Genesis brand around the world and clearly imprint its presence. Because competition is so fierce, it is difficult to enter the luxury D-segment market. Although the G70 claims to be a sports sedan, it is not overly greedy for stimulation or character. It redefined ‘the joy of dynamic driving’ as a multi-layered concept and approached it as a holistic experience. It expanded the scope and depth of enjoyment - through sleek interior and exterior design, luxurious materials, smooth ride and linear controls. The strategy aimed at generalists has already taken root as the identity of the G70. In addition, the depth of maturation was added with this ‘heart transplant’. As such, the new G70 is the most complete ‘ultimate model’.
by Ki-bum Kim (Editor-in-Chief of Road Test)
Various technologies have been applied to the 2.5 turbo engine to maximize efficiency and maintain stability - the dual injection. The new 2.5 turbo engine of the new G70 is equipped with a Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) system that maximizes combustion efficiency by directly injecting fuel into the combustion chamber and a port injection (MPI) system that maximizes fuel/air mixing opportunities. Thanks to this, the 2.5 turbo engine achieves the best efficiency by using an ideal injection method depending on the situation.
A water-cooled intercooler and variable split cooling system are also notable technologies in the G70’s new 2.5 turbo engine. The biggest challenge for high-performance turbo engines is heat management. The intercooler cools the air compressed by the turbocharger, increasing intake density to increase engine output while reducing thermal stress. A water-cooled intercooler can most efficiently control the temperature of compressed intake air.
Going one step further, the G70’s 2.5-turbo engine separated the water-cooled intercooler’s complex cooling circuit into two intercooler/engine circuits. In addition, an electric cooling water pump is used to actively control the amount of cooling water circulation. By efficiently and precisely cooling each part of the engine, the G70’s 2.5 turbo engine was able to achieve both stability and excellent power performance.
The G70, which has a sophisticated 2.5 turbo engine, demonstrates considerable power performance. However, rather than the thrill of squeezing the engine speed as before, this is the feeling of a luxury GT (Grand Tourer) that enjoys high performance while running quickly and comfortably over long distances. What further emphasizes this sense is the 8-speed automatic transmission with a torque converter method. Given that Hyundai Motor Group had already developed an 8-speed DCT (dual-clutch transmission) to fit the 2.5 turbo engine, it is clear that this configuration was intentional.
In the past, the advantages of DCT were efficiency and direct connection, and torque converter-type automatic transmissions had smooth shifting and ride comfort. But now the borders between them are blurring; Contrary to the DCT’s pursuit of smoothness to minimize jolts and shift shocks at low speeds, the torque converter transmission has evolved by actively using a much more agile shift mechanism and lock-up clutch to increase efficiency and directness.
And, the 8-speed automatic transmission of the G70 went one step further. To elevate the smooth shift feel to the limit, it housed a vibration-reducing torque converter that cancels engine vibration, and shrinks the overall packaging to improve efficiency. In addition, meticulous upgrades were made by optimizing the capacity of the oil pump and changing the valve body, a key part of the automatic transmission, to a direct control method. This is why the 8-speed automatic transmission of the G70 responds more smoothly, accurately, and clearly.
The sense of luxury GT is linked to the second characteristic of the G70 - maturity. When the G70 was first unveiled in 2017, the fierce sensation of digging into corners in sport mode was stimulating and attractive. The new G70 has evolved to a richer character. In addition to the increased output, it has a mature beauty suitable for two PE (Product Enhancement). Supporting this is the electronically controlled suspension and the Brembo 4-piston monoblock caliper, which is also applied as standard to the 2.5 turbo model. It is not an easy task to handle the power of more than 300 horsepower with stable steering performance and to encompass a comfortable ride. It is natural that the suspension and brakes have become more important as the basic output has become stronger by installing a high-performance 2.5 turbo engine in the entry model.
The sense of luxury GT is linked to the second characteristic of the G70 - maturity. When the G70 was first unveiled in 2017, the fierce sensation of digging into corners in sport mode was stimulating and attractive. The new G70 has evolved to a richer character. In addition to the increased output, it has a mature beauty suitable for two PE (Product Enhancement). Supporting this is the electronically controlled suspension and the Brembo 4-piston monoblock caliper, which is also applied as standard to the 2.5 turbo model. It is not an easy task to handle the power of more than 300 horsepower with stable steering performance and to encompass a comfortable ride. It is natural that the suspension and brakes have become more important as the basic output has become stronger by installing a high-performance 2.5 turbo engine in the entry model.
At first, I thought that the change in damping force of the electronically controlled suspension was not as dramatic as before, and that the damping force in Sport or Sport Plus mode was rather soft. However, the stronger output and the controllability of the electronically controlled suspension achieved an exquisite balance. As such, the G70, which has undergone two facelifts, has pursued the balance of exhilarating running performance and luxurious driving sensation to the extreme. The taste of the combination of the improved power performance provided by the new heart and the driving sensation with outstanding maturity is the world of luxury sports presented by the Genesis G70. There are many ways to use power, but the G70, which showed the essence of an intense and authentic sports sedan with its appearance, has now evolved into a luxury GT that shows the ripe use of power.
by Stefan Rah (Auto Columnist)
The G70, newly introduced as a 2023 model, shows the will to make a strong presence as a model that meets customer needs in the D-segment market with strong German competitors. The important thing is the intention of product planning and the position according to the lineup. The G70 is divided into a sedan that provides comfortable daily driving and a pleasant sense of driving, and a shooting brake with expandability that goes beyond daily life and outdoors. The engine uses a newly added 2.5 turbo and 3.3 turbo, all with an 8-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive as standard, and an intelligent all-wheel drive system (AWD) as an option. The rear wheel differential limiter (LSD), which makes the car’s movement more dynamic, is applied only to the 2.5 turbo rear-wheel drive and sports package combination, and the 3.3 turbo sports package.
The G70 2.5 Turbo AWD, which was the test model, took the approach of the most comfortable and efficient driving performance and popularity among the G70 lineup. It means that the G70 is in a position where it is a handful away from the maximum sports performance that can be displayed. At the same time, it emphasizes driving stabilization with AWD rather than the basic model (rear-wheel drive). Among the many changes, I drove on a winding road, focusing on the changed driving performance and driving feel of the 2.5 turbo AWD.
The new 2.5 turbo engine matches the quick shifts of the 8-speed transmission and accelerates fiercely on straight sections. From about 200m before the corner, I focused on the movement of the new G70 AWD. With sudden braking, the weight of the car moves forward quickly. Brembo brakes with improved disc cooling performance brake powerfully with soft pressure from the beginning, and maintain constant braking performance until the moment the speed is sufficiently reduced. It is thought that the braking performance will be sufficient on the circuit as well as on the general road. More important than that are soft brakes; It works like a regular brake with very little noise.
The empty vehicle weight of 1,740kg based on the test ride feels slightly heavy in sharp corners. Still, the steering wheel doesn’t seem too heavy. With a body length of 4,685 mm, it is easy to handle from corner start to finish thanks to its compact body. The sense of movement of the bangs and tail is quite dynamic. Relatively short front and rear overhangs (805mm/1,045mm) make it easy to feel the instant the bangs move into a corner or the rear wheel grip changes.
When attacking the center of a corner quickly, the G70 2.5 Turbo AWD controls the movement well by itself. First of all, the body resists rolling stronger than expected. Even after the center of gravity moves quickly in a corner that changes rapidly from side to side, the suspension immediately adjusts its posture. At this time, the AWD system communicates quite closely with the road surface. The entire process of accurately accepting information from the road and pouring out as much output as needed to help change direction is smooth. It is characterized by maintaining mild understeer through the center of a corner; This is thanks to the all-season tires with quietness and snow traction. It is somewhat unfortunate to bring out all the limit driving performance of the G70 2.5 Turbo AWD, but it is reasonable in everyday driving.
The Riding Modes dramatically change the ride texture - especially the Sport Plus mode. The driving mode of the G70 changes the powertrain, steering, suspension, and AWD items, and changes all settings at once with a single button. Here, the Sport Plus mode allows you to approach the limits of driving performance more actively than the Sport mode while maintaining the minimum electronically controlled safety device.
At this time, it allows more time for shifting during acceleration and cornering, allowing the maximum engine speed to be used longer, and on the contrary, shifts to a lower gear more quickly during deceleration. In manual mode, where the driver shifts directly, even if the engine rotation enters the red zone, it automatically maintains the maximum rotation speed without raising the gear. To activate this function, you need to press the ESC (Electronic Stability Control) button for about 3 seconds to enter the 2nd stage OFF mode.
The electric power steering and suspension get a little heavier in Sport Plus mode. It is difficult to explain exactly which part is different and how much it is numerically, but compared to the sport mode, driving in the limit area is more intuitive. Of course, it is difficult to say that the cornering sensation is stable compared to sports. In Sport Plus mode, the ESC is turned off in one step, allowing for some slippage. The TCS (Traction Control System) also adds vitality to the vehicle, instantly delivering driving force beyond tire grip.
In Sport Plus mode, the movement of the G70 definitely stands out. The AWD system, which felt only soft even in sport mode, boldly sent power to the rear wheels depending on the situation, making it possible to get closer to the desired driving line. Thanks to this, my car entered the corner more lightly, and I was able to escape by gripping the road surface. Even though I only pressed one button, it showed a distinctly different look. Since the test car did not have a limited differential (LSD), it was not possible to try free driving such as drift, but the system’s response was natural and reliable. Anyone with the G70 2.5 Turbo with AWD can effectively enjoy sports driving.
Overall, the G70 2.5 Turbo AWD is suitable for driving fun using a smart AWD system when it snows in winter or on winding mountain roads encountered during long-distance driving. Ultimately, the sustainable expansion pursued by a premium brand like Genesis is: not only improving product quality, but also creating a new area for young consumers and retaining them with its charm. The 2023 G70 2.5 Turbo AWD fits well with the latest trends in these premium brands.
by Tae-young Kim (auto columnist)
Above, the three columnists shared their experiences and analysis of the 2023 G70. Ki-beom Kim talked about the identity and position the Genesis G70 took to compete in the fierce luxury D-segment market, and Stefan Rah delved into the mechanical characteristics of the new G70. Tae-young Kimfocused on exploring the exercise performance of the G70 and left a comment saying, “The coexistence of exhilaration and comfort.” Each had a different focus, but there was one thing everyone agreed on; The G70, which pioneered Korea’s luxury sports sedan, has returned with a more mature and relaxed look. In this way, the evolution of the G70 has proven successful.
Ki-beom Kim (Editor-in-Chief of Road Test)
Starting with the editor of 〈Car Life〉 in 2000, he worked at 〈Strata〉 and is currently the editor-in-chief of 〈Road Test〉. He is also a member of the jury for the ‘Car Design Awards’ and ‘Future Mobility of the Year’.
Stefan Rah (Auto Columnist)
He has been responsible for product-related work at various brands such as Audi, Volkswagen, and Ferrari, and is currently working as an auto columnist and automobile consultant.
Tae-young Kim (Auto Columnist)
He is the CEO of 〈DaveContext〉, an automobile content production company. He majored in automotive mechanical engineering and worked as an editor for various media such as 〈JoongAng Ilbo Online Automobile〉, 〈Car Life〉, 〈Motor Trend〉, and 〈Esquire〉.
Photography by Beom-seok Kim
HMG Journal Operation Team
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