Hyundai’s emerging premium division began life a year ago with revamped models of the big Genesis and Equus sedans that were rebranded as the Genesis G80 and G90, respectively. Building on both models, The Sleuth is aware that Genesis will soon launch a smaller G70 sedan that’s aimed squarely at the BMW 3 series, the Audi A4 and similarly sized premium sedans from Lexus, Infiniti and Jaguar. This category is critical for Genesis, since the entry-luxury vehicles’ lower starting price will entice more buyers. Power for the G70 will come from a turbocharged four-cylinder, but an optional twin-turbo V-6 is a real possibility. The V-6 is also likely to make all-wheel-drive available (rear-wheel-drive is standard). The G70 is expected to go on sale next year as a 2019 model. Since the buyers are hot for utility vehicles, The Sleuth is surprised that Genesis is focusing on sedans only.
The only big problem with the new G70 is that it’s not a luxury utility vehicle. The G70 joins two other sedans in the Genesis portfolio. (PHOTO: HYUNDAI)
