2022 Genesis G70 Facelift Coming With New G80 And GV80 Styling Cues

Genesis appears to have shifted into high gear with the updated G70 that was captured by our spy photographers in and around the Nurburgring track in Germany undergoing development testing. Besides the fresh set of scoop photos, we’ve also added new information to our article that follows. [Updated 5/18/2020]

The facelifted Genesis G70 has made its spy photo debut, ahead of an unveiling expected to take place towards the end the year. Depending on when it will launch in dealerships, it will either wear the 2021MY or 2022MY moniker.

The Korean company’s sports sedan that rivals the BMW 3-Series, Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Alfa Romeo Giulia, and Jaguar XE will adopt a new front end that will bring its design language in line with Genesis’ latest models such as the bigger G80.

As such, the updated Genesis G70 will get the brand’s now trademark split headlights and taillights alongside a larger six-point grille, with the bumpers also being up for a nip n’ tuck. Despite the heavy camo, it appears that the rest of the body panels will not be getting any revisions, which is only natural for a mid-life facelift.

The interior has yet to open up to the camera, although it’s been reported that it will introduce a new infotainment system with a bigger display and an available digital instrument cluster, possibly the same three-dimensional screen introduced on the GV80 SUV. New upholstery and trim options should also be on the menu.

What about under the hood?

Reports claim that the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine, which delivers 252 HP in the current G70, could be replaced by Hyundai’s newer 2.5-liter unit. This powertrain can be found in the Hyundai Sonata N Line, producing 290 HP and 310 lb-ft (420 Nm) of torque, paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6, with 365 HP, which enables a 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 4.5 seconds, will remain the range-topping version of the series, though it’s unknown whether it will be modified in any way. Markets outside North America will still get the 2.2-liter diesel that currently makes 199 HP and 325 lb-ft (441 Nm).

The question remains on whether Genesis will continue to offer a manual transmission option for the facelift G70. Earlier this year, through information released by the Environmental Protection Agency, it was revealed that the current G70 with the 2.0L turbo engine, which was listed as a 2021MY leading us to believe the new model might be labeled as a 2022MY, will continue to offer a manual gearbox.