Thanks to GoodCarBadCar, we now have a concrete idea of car sales by model for 2022. One of the most surprising takeaways from the list is the Genesis GV70 having the highest year-to-date sales for the brand at 19,141. Despite being relatively new to the market, it outsold nameplates like the Genesis G90 and G80 that have been around for several years.

So, what about it makes it so attractive to buyers?

2022 Genesis GV70 basic specs and features

At the time of the 2022 release, the Genesis GV70 was available for a $41,500 starting price. It also came in two trims that reflected the available powertrains: the 2.5T and the 3.5T. Since it’s too early for a redesign, these are the same trims buyers will be getting for the 2023 model year.

It features exterior wagon styling with a bold dual-stripe headlight cluster on the front fascia. It also offers space for up to five passengers.

The 2.5T models come with a turbocharged inline-four engine capable of up to 300 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy stands at 22 mpg and 28 mpg for city and highway driving for a combined 24 mpg. According to Car and Driver, this powertrain propels the Genesis SUV from 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds.

On the other hand, the 3.5T models increase the performance with a twin-turbocharged 3.5L V6 engine whose stats are 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. Naturally, this trim is quicker, making the same 0-60 mph acceleration run in 4.9 seconds on the reviewer’s test track. It’s also less fuel efficient averaging 21 mpg thanks to 19 mpg gas mileage in the city and 25 mpg on highways.

Both options come paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

A dynamic interior

As for the interior, there’s a lot to be impressed with, including the 14.5-inch infotainment screen on the dashboard. It’s equipped with a fingerprint scanner that gives access to pre-loaded settings for drivers and passengers. Also included are Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and even a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot.

As you’d expect of a Genesis luxury SUV, the materials in the cabin are pretty high-end, not to mention you get some extra features like heated seats. That said, these are determined by the package you pick. On the low end, the Standard package comes with 18-inch wheels, leatherette upholstery, a motion-activated power liftgate, and heated power-adjustable front seats.

The high-end Sport Prestige package offers extras like 21-inch wheels, alloy sport pedals, tri-zone climate control, and a larger cluster display.

What critics had to say about the 2022 Genesis GV70

According to Genesis, the compact luxury SUV was listed among Autotrader’s best new cars of 2022. Edmunds had similarly high praise for the vehicle, given it won the critic’s top-rated luxury SUV award for the year.

Car and Driver may have some gripes with the rear seat space – a sentiment that most others disagree with—but overall, it praises the GV70’s entry into the segment. Among the noted positives include the powertrain options and interior design.

MotorTrend, on the other hand, raises a valid point about the vehicle’s fuel economy, although much like the rest, it seems to think highly of the car.

Reasons why the Genesis GV70 became the brand’s best-seller

In addition to most critics having nothing but good things to say about the SUV, it’s comfortable, powerful, relatively quick, offers a decent ride, and has tons of tech features. Furthermore, it was awarded an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating meaning it’s one of the safest cars of the year.

Another possible reason why it was so attractive was the price. It’s cheaper than most other competitors in the segment and more affordable than the larger Genesis GV80 that preceded it on the manufacturer’s lineup.