Hyundai’s luxury car brand, Genesis, is prepping an all-new G70 that will be positioned below the larger G80 and G90 saloon. The rival to the BMW 3 Series was spotted testing for the first time out in Death Valley, California.
The heavily camouflaged prototype is evidently carrying the design cues from the Genesis New York Concept showcased last year. The test mule seems to be the potent variant with a blacked out mesh grille and a sporty set of alloy wheels. The headlamps are sporting a projector set-up while the tail lights have LED embellishment. The downsized G90 design is evident in the smooth flowing roofline, vented bumpers and chrome lined windows. Its sporty intentions are confirmed by the Brembo-stamped brakes.
In the interior images, the cabin looks almost production ready underneath all that cladding. The vehicle was seen testing out the climate control system in the hot weather of Death Valley. The multi-information instrument cluster, centre console mounted HVAC control and dashboard-mounted infotainment screen is unlike the one seen on other two Genesis models. However, the dashboard layout is also similar to the one seen in the Kia Stinger. Even the steering wheels seem directly scrounged from the Korean brethren.
As far as powertrain is concerned, there are options of turbocharged inline four units. The hybrid powertrain isn’t ruled out as was previewed in the New York Concept. The top-spec G70 might get the potent 3.3-litre V6 with output in excess of 350bhp. The rear-wheel-drive layout will be standard, but the all-wheel-drive will also be available. The transmission option will be an eight-speed automatic.
According to Genesis’ product plans, the G70 was scheduled for 2017. The entry-level Genesis will be joined by a coupe variant as well in the future. When it goes on sale, the G70 will face stiff competition from the likes of BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Acura TLX, Alfa Romeo Giulia, Audi A4, Cadillac ATS, Infiniti Q50, Jaguar XE, Lexus IS, Lincoln MKZ and Volvo S60. Expect to see the G70 later in 2017, with a possible debut slated for the LA Auto Show.
