Genesis is stepping up its game with the refreshed 2026 Genesis GV70 and its electrified counterpart, the Electrified GV70. While the updates may not be groundbreaking, they bring meaningful improvements in style, technology, and performance.
Let’s take a closer look at why these changes make the GV70 a standout in its segment.
Electrified GV70: Charging Ahead
The Electrified GV70 represents Genesis’ commitment to an electric future, showcasing an upgraded 84-kWh battery that replaces the previous 77.4-kWh pack. While Genesis has yet to confirm exact range figures, it’s expected to exceed the current model’s 236 miles, mirroring similar gains seen in Hyundai’s Ioniq 5.
Charging capabilities have also been enhanced with the adoption of the North American Charging Standard (NACS), granting access to Tesla’s Supercharger network. A CCS adapter is included, ensuring compatibility with other charging stations, which makes the Electrified GV70 versatile for both urban and rural drivers.
Additionally, the new charge port is thoughtfully heated, preventing cold-weather issues and adding convenience for EV owners in winter-prone areas.
Interior Evolution: Minimalism Meets Marvel
Genesis’ design philosophy, the “Beauty of White Space,” is on full display in the updated GV70’s interior. A striking 27-inch OLED screen now spans the dashboard, seamlessly blending the driver’s instrument cluster with infotainment controls.
This addition elevates both aesthetics and functionality, making every interaction feel intuitive and sophisticated. Luxury touches abound, from suede seats with white stitching to matching white seatbelts, creating a bespoke feel that is rare even in this segment. The Electrified GV70 further distinguishes itself with marble-like accents on the door panels and expanded ambient lighting that enhances the cabin’s atmosphere.
Even second-row passengers benefit from added climate controls and mood lighting. Voice recognition technology has also seen improvements, allowing for natural speech commands to control windows, climate settings, and more, making the system genuinely useful rather than a novelty.
Powertrains: A Range of Choices
Genesis has adopted a multi-faceted approach to powertrains, offering options for nearly every driver. Gasoline engines remain unchanged, with the turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-four producing 300 horsepower and the 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 delivering 375 horsepower.
These proven setups cater to drivers seeking traditional powertrains with modern refinement. In the coming year, a hybrid version of the GV70 is set to debut, followed by a range-extended electric vehicle (EREV) in 2027.
The EREV combines a smaller battery with a fuel-powered generator, promising up to 560 miles of combined range—a solution aimed at buyers not yet ready to commit fully to electric vehicles.
Driving Dynamics: Better Where It Counts
The updated GV70 doesn’t just look good; it also drives better. Genesis has introduced a new Highway Body Motion Control system, designed to improve ride stability during acceleration and braking, ensuring a smooth and composed experience.
The GV70 also benefits from a new Terrain Mode, offering enhanced capability on challenging surfaces like snow, sand, and mud.
Combined with the existing Road Preview system, which uses cameras to adjust suspension settings based on road conditions, these features make the GV70 both comfortable and capable, whether on highways or backroads.
Exterior Refinement: Subtle Yet Significant
Genesis continues to refine its “Athletic Elegance” design philosophy, ensuring the 2026 GV70 stands out without losing its identity. The Electrified GV70 features a body-color grille and hidden charging port, delivering a modern, streamlined look.
The updated grille design for the gasoline-powered GV70 adds angular mesh accents for a sportier aesthetic. A new exterior color, Ceres Blue, debuts with this refresh, offering a unique light gray-blue hue inspired by the dwarf planet Ceres. Depending on the angle, this color subtly shifts, adding a dynamic visual element that underscores Genesis’ attention to detail.
The Bigger Picture: Genesis’ Strategic Shift
Genesis is taking a calculated approach to electrification, balancing pure EVs with hybrids and range extenders. This strategy caters to varying consumer needs, particularly in markets like the United States, where EV adoption is growing but infrastructure remains inconsistent.
Hyundai Motor Group, Genesis’ parent company, aims to make 40% of its global sales hybrids by 2028, and the GV70 lineup is a clear representation of this vision. By offering combustion engines, hybrids, and EVs, Genesis ensures that it remains a compelling option for a wide range of buyers without compromising its luxurious appeal.
Charge Complete
The refreshed 2026 Genesis GV70 and Electrified GV70 offer a thoughtful blend of style, luxury, and performance. From its cutting-edge OLED display to its larger EV battery and flexible charging options, Genesis continues to refine what it means to be a modern luxury SUV.
With deliveries set for the first half of 2025, this refreshed lineup promises to keep the GV70 at the forefront of its class. Whether you prefer gasoline, hybrid, or electric power, the GV70 delivers practicality wrapped in elegance.
