Genesis G70 sedan is Hyundai’s attempt at BMW 3-Series rival

Hyundai’s premium brand Genesis was launched with the aim to take on the German luxury cars by offering better value-for-money. It all started with the large Genesis G90 and the the smaller G80, the latter unfortunately starting life as a Hyundai-badged model. Now they have turned their attention towards the entry-luxury compact segment. At the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show, Hyundai revealed the Genesis G70, a sedan tailored to lock horns with the BMW 3-Series and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

The front fascia of the Genesis G70 is similar to that of the larger offerings from the brand, with the dull grille accented with odd mouldings on the bumper. The G70 is a good-looking car, but it may not click as a premium car at first sight.

The interior of the G70 is laid out mostly with ergonomics in mind. The design is simple and straightforward. The infotainment system comes with an eight-inch touchscreen display and Android Auto, Apple CarPlay integration. Genesis offers five different cabin colours to choose from. Two extra shades will be available for the G70 Sport and high-end trims.

The Genesis G70 is powered by a bunch of four and six-cylinder engines. The base model comes with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine that produces 248 hp and 366 Nm of torque. An optional Sport pack will raise the output to 251 hp. The top-end model will feature a 3.3-litre six-cylinder turbo engine that churns out 365 hp and 510 Nm. This engine is capable of propelling the G70 from 0 to 100 kph in 4.7 seconds. A 2.2-litre diesel good for 200 hp is also available. The G70 can be had with rear or four-wheel drive drivetrains.

The range-topping G70 Sport model adds performance goodies like launch control, dynamic torque vectoring, variable ratio steering, adjustable suspension, and a limited slip differential.

Hyundai says this will be the smallest Genesis model on offer for years to come as it tries to establish itself as a luxury carmaker.