2025 Genesis GV70 3.5T Signature Sport review – Top 5 Pros & Cons

Standing out is no easy feat in today’s crowded world of luxury SUVs. German marques like BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz dominate the streets, and even Lexus and Volvo have carved loyal followings. Quietly to the side, the Genesis GV70 has been challenging the benchmark since its debut, offering something fresh; distinctive styling, a high-value features list, and performance that doesn’t compromise refinement.

In 2025, Genesis has given the GV70 a mid-life update. The latest model ushers in a raft of technology and luxury features, from a sweeping 27-inch OLED display to over-the-air software updates, along with thoughtful indulgences like an in-cabin fragrance diffuser and a UV-C sanitisation compartment.

We spent a week with the Signature Sport grade and the muscular 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6. It represents the top of the lineup, blending the elegance of the Signature with a visual performance twist, creating a package designed to rival the Germans head-on. To help you decide whether it is a worthy contender, here are our top 5 pros and cons, in no particular order.

2025 Genesis GV70 3.5T Signature Sport: Pros

1. Striking design and cabin craftsmanship:

The GV70 doesn’t blend into traffic like so many of its rivals. The bold crest grille, quad-lamp LED headlights with micro-lens technology, and a coupe-like roofline all make it unique. Inside, Genesis leans on its Korean design philosophy of “beauty of white space” to create a cabin that feels both futuristic and calming. The Signature grade steps things up with Nappa leather upholstery, an elegant mix of trims, and details like Ergo-motion front seats that subtly adjust to ease fatigue. It feels bespoke in a way that mid-size German SUVs often don’t, and that makes every drive feel special.

2. Powerful twin-turbo V6 performance:

Where the entry-level 2.5T engine makes do with a four-cylinder turbo-petrol, the 3.5T unlocks a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6. With 279kW and 530Nm sent through an all-wheel-drive system and an eight-speed auto, it’s quick enough to cover 0-100km/h in just 5.3. seconds. Our testing has timed it in 5.64 seconds.

Importantly, it doesn’t just deliver numbers – it delivers refinement. The Road Preview Electronic Control Suspension scans the road ahead to adjust response to help smooth out imperfections, while an electronic limited-slip differential sharpens handling when pushing harder. The Signature Sport strikes a rare balance, as it offers punchy acceleration and grip without losing its luxury demeanour.

3. Technology showcase that outshines rivals:

The headline feature is the 27-inch OLED display, a wide single panel that merges the instrument cluster and infotainment system. It’s crisp, fast, and makes BMW’s curved display look almost modest. Add in augmented reality navigation, wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 16-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system with active noise cancellation, and it seals the deal as the best feature list of the segment.

4. Cabin comfort and indulgence:

Luxury is often about the small touches, and Genesis has gone out of its way to create a cocooning experience. The Signature and Signature Sport have a heated steering wheel and second-row seats, a centre-console aroma diffuser, and climate control with a dedicated rear zone. There’s also meticulous attention to reducing noise, vibration and harshness through chassis and suspension refinements. It’s the sort of environment that makes even a mundane commute feel like a retreat, and long road trips pass by effortlessly.

5. Value and ownership package:

While Genesis may not yet have the same brand distinction as Audi or BMW, it counters with substance. The GV70 3.5T Signature Sport is equipped like a fully-optioned rival but at a lower price point. Factor in five years of complimentary servicing, a five-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty, and a valet pick-up and drop-off service, and the value equation becomes hard to ignore. For buyers who want flagship-level kit without paying through the nose for extras, the GV70 makes a very strong case.

2025 Genesis GV70 3.5T Signature Sport: Cons

1. Fuel efficiency:

The 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 delivers serious performance, but it comes at the expense of fuel economy. Officially rated at 11.3L/100km, it’s already thirstier than many rival six-cylinder petrol or diesel SUVs. In our real-world test, we managed a slightly better 10.7L/100km, but it’s still on the high side for a medium SUV – especially when compared to more frugal hybrid options from Lexus or plug-in alternatives from Volvo and BMW. Long-distance touring and urban commuting alike will see regular visits to the bowser.

2. Brand prestige still developing:

As much as Genesis has impressed critics like us, it doesn’t yet carry the same weight in badge appeal. Unfortunately, for some buyers, the German logo on the grille is as important as the car itself. While the GV70’s design and luxury easily rival the established players, it doesn’t yet command the same instant recognition in Australia.

3. Limited rear-seat and boot practicality:

For all its luxury, the GV70 doesn’t quite deliver class-leading space in the back. Adults will find the rear seats comfortable but not overly generous in legroom compared with rivals like the BMW X3 or Lexus RX. This is partly due to the bulky front seats and the swooping roofline. The boot, while adequate at 542 litres, also trails some competitors in outright capacity, mostly due to a sloped rear. Buyers who prioritise maximum space may feel the GV70 leans more toward luxury than outright practicality.

4. Complex technology learning curve:

While the 27-inch OLED display is a standout, it comes with complexity. Layers of menus, haptic touch controls, and a sheer volume of functions mean that less tech-savvy buyers could face a steep learning curve. It’s not impenetrable, but like with most new models nowadays, the Genesis may overwhelm some at first. Spend some time with it before driving.

5. Limited dealer and service network:

Genesis operates a boutique retail model in Australia, with studios in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Perth. While the valet aftersales service is top-shelf, it is only available to city slickers. Regional and even greater metro customers miss out. In fact, there are currently no locations in South Australia, Tasmania, the ACT or the Northern Territory.

2025 Genesis GV70 3.5T Signature Sport: Specifications

Engine: 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 petrol
Output: 279kW@5800rpm / 530Nm@1600-4300rpm
Gearbox: Eight-speed auto
Drive type: All-wheel drive
Wheels: F & R: 21×9.0, 255/40
ANCAP: Not tested
Tare weight: 2088kg
Power-to-weight: 7.48:1 (kg:kW)
Official consumption: 11.3L/100km
Our consumption: 10.7L/100km
Fuel tank/Fuel type: 66L/95 RON

Power efficiency: 24.69kW:L/100km
0-60km/h: 2.87 seconds*
0-100km/h: 5.64 seconds*
60-110km/h: 3.67 seconds*
1/4 mile: 13.84 seconds at 167.9km/h*
Max acceleration: 0.797g*
100-0km/h braking: 37.67m in 3.05 seconds*
Max deceleration: -1.270g*
Decibel at idle: 37*
Peak decibel at 60-100km/h: 84*
Starting price: $100,200

*Figures as tested by Driving Enthusiast on the day. Manufacturers’ claims may be different