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Following their world premiere in South Korea seven months ago, the 2026 Genesis GV70 and Electrified GV70 made their North American debut yesterday during an exclusive event on the eve of the Los Angeles Auto Show. The pair will arrive at U.S. and Canadian retailers sometime in the first half of 2025.
Once again embracing Genesis’ “Athletic Elegance” design philosophy, the two SUVs sport a new, dual-weave mesh grille. The one on the electric model incorporates a new NACS charging port (along with a heated and motorized door) allowing direct access to Tesla’s Superchargers and other NACS-compatible fast chargers—no adapter necessary. The two-line headlamps are updated with micro lens array (MLA) technology.
Photo: Genesis
The front end has been enhanced with a bolder skid plate design and extended air intake grilles. New-look 19- and 21-inch wheels can be found on the sides, while the turn signals in the rear have been redesigned to align with the two-line headlamps. Up to 10 different exterior colours are available including new Ceres Blue, which was apparently inspired by the dwarf planet between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter.
The Biggest Change is Inside
Arguably the most striking update to the GV70 is the all-new 27-inch OLED display that stands atop the dashboard for 2026. What’s more, Genesis has enhanced voice recognition controls to allow the driver to easily control vehicle functions like HVAC settings, window position and more. Improved Over-the-Air update capabilities will ensure that the vehicle has the latest features and capabilities available.
Photo: Genesis
Also new for the 2026 model year is Terrain Mode, which optimizes the GV70 depending on road conditions—snow, mud or sand. When it comes to safety and driver assistance, the steering wheel now features Hands-On Detection (HOD) sensors, while Lane Following Assist and Remote Smart Parking Assist have been improved, the latter allowing forward-to-back, parallel and now diagonal parking.
Customers will have a choice of four Nappa leather colour options led by Ultramarine Blue. Orange stitching and a flat-bottom sport steering wheel set the GV70 Sport apart. Elsewhere, there’s a new adjustable interior ambient lighting function, while the relocated wireless charging pad allows for easier access to personal devices.
Photo: Genesis
Same Engines, Larger Battery
Unsurprisingly, the gas-powered 2026 Genesis GV70 stays put in the powertrain department. The standard turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine produces a solid 300 horsepower, while the turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 endows the GV70 Sport with 375 horsepower. It’s worth noting the introduction of Highway Body Motion Control, which controls front and rear dampening forces when accelerating or decelerating.
A big change is taking place in the 2026 Electrified GV70, namely a new 84kWh high-voltage battery that provides longer range. We’ll have to wait some more to get the actual rating, but for the record, the outgoing 2025 model with a 77.4kWh battery can travel up to 380 km. Genesis claims that 19 minutes will be enough to go from 10-80 percent charge when using a 350kW ultra-fast DC charger.
Photo: Genesis
Canadian pricing and equipment details will be shared closer to launch in the first half of 2025.
New Design Studio in California
Genesis, which recently opened its 60th retail location in the U.S. (adding to the 30 Canadian stores), also announced it will open a design studio in El Segundo, California in the first quarter of 2025—marking a significant milestone in the growth of the Korean luxury brand that will be celebrating its 10th anniversary next year.
Photo: Genesis
“Genesis is a leader in automotive design,” said Luc Donckerwolke, Chief Creative Officer at Genesis. “We take pride in always innovating and looking for inspiration in our everyday lives. The climate, cultural arts and automotive scene in Los Angeles offered us the possibility to create a dynamic and attractive work experience by integrating nature and light into the work and creative spaces.”
Genesis Design California will span 80,000 square feet and house 45 employees.
What specific features and improvements can customers expect in the 2026 Genesis GV70 and Electrified GV70 mid-cycle upgrade?
1. As website editors, we are pleased to interview Mr. John Smith, Genesis’ Senior Vice President of Product Planning, and Ms. Linda Lee, Genesis’ Head of Interior Design, regarding the 2026 Genesis GV70 and Electrified GV70 mid-cycle upgrade. Thank you both for joining us today. To start off, Mr. Smith, can you tell us what inspired the decision to make the 2026 GV70 and Electrified GV70 mid-cycle refresh, and what key changes will we see in this upgraded model?
2. Ms. Lee, the all-new 27-inch OLED display is a striking feature of the 2026 GV70 interior. Can you provide more insights into the design process behind this innovative addition and how it enhances the driving experience? Additionally, what other notable changes have been made to the interior, such as the new Nappa leather upholstery options and improved ambient lighting?
3. Moving on to the exterior design, both guests have mentioned the ”Athletic Elegance” design philosophy that underpins the refreshed GV70 models. Can you elaborate on how this philosophy guided the changes to the exterior design? Specifically, we are interested in the new dual-weave mesh grille, 27-inch display, and improved safety features like the HOD sensors.
4. The Electrified GV70 has been upgraded with a larger high-voltage battery, which is great news for potential buyers. Can you provide more details about this new battery, its range and charging capabilities? Additionally, Mr. Smith, can you share some insights into the decision to introduce Terrain Mode for improved off-road performance?
5. Speaking of environmental sustainability, Genesis has recently announced plans to open a new design studio in El Segundo, California. As the Head of Interior Design, Ms. Lee, can you tell us about the focus of this new studio and how it aligns with Genesis’ sustainability goals? Furthermore, what role do you see California’s unique culture and automotive scene playing in the design process of future Genesis models?
6. what message would you like consumers to take away
