The 2019 Genesis G70 is one of the three finalists for North American Car of the Year and initial impressions have largely been positive. Those sentiments are echoed by MotorWeek which recently took a spin in the BMW 3-Series competitor.
Loosely based on the Kia Stinger, the G70 is the brand’s highly-anticipated entry-level model and it faces the tough task of battling more prestigious rivals. Thankfully, Genesis appears to have done their homework as MotorWeek says the car has a high quality interior and Lexus levels of attention to detail.
While the G70 is available with two different engines, MotorWeek tested the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces 252 hp (188 kW / 255 PS) and 260 lb-ft (352 Nm) of torque. In this test, the engine was paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission which sends power to the rear wheels.
Despite being the base power plant, the engine is an impressive beast as it”s “very powerful” and “punches above its weight.” This is reflected in the car’s 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) time of 6.2 seconds, which makes it nearly one second faster than the BMW 320i which also starts at $34,900. Of course, this isn’t too surprising as the German’s turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder only produces 180 hp (134 kW / 182 PS) and 200 lb-ft (270 Nm) of torque.
The engine isn’t the only thing the G70 has going for it as the transmission was highly praised and so was the handling. Speaking of the latter, MotorWeek says the car feels “very solid” and a bit Audi-like. The steering was also judged to be nicely weighted and responsive.
All in all, they say the G70 is a fantastic step up for the brand as they’ve managed to create a very luxurious car that’s a true sports sedan.