Genesis, the newcomer in the luxury market, is going toe-to-toe with longstanding Italian engineering. When it comes to the 2020 Genesis G70 vs. the 2020 Alfa Romeo Giulia, the newbie might just come out on top.

These sports sedans have several similarities, including sleek profiles, luxurious interior amenities, and dynamic handling. However, Matt DeLorenzo of Kelley Blue Book says the Genesis G70 offers higher quality at a lower price while maintaining an exciting driving experience.

What sets these rivals apart, and which of these models should thrill-seeking drivers turn toward?

The Genesis G70 can’t match the performance heights of the Alfa Romeo Giulia

The base engines of both models are incredibly impressive. 

The 2020 G70 2.0T RWD is equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. This setup produces 252 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque while getting an EPA-estimated 30 MPG highway.

Meanwhile, the entry-level Giulia RWD features an all-aluminum turbocharged four-cylinder that kicks out 280 hp and 306 lb-ft of torque. It also utilizes an eight-speed transmission, but paddle shifters are an available upgrade instead of standard equipment. Additionally, it can get up to an EPA-estimated 33 MPG highway.

The 2020 Giulia holds the edge in base engines, but it sets itself apart with its performance engine. A 505-hp twin-turbo V6 powers the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio, and it can reach a top speed of 191 MPH. This model also has several race-inspired enhancements, including an adaptive suspension and a torque-vectoring rear differential.

The G70 3.3T RWD answers with enhanced performance of its own, but it doesn’t provide the same level of thrills. Its twin-turbo V6 musters 365 hp, but similarly to its Giulia Quadrifoglio counterpart, it also offers launch control.

Additionally, both vehicles offer available all-wheel drive. However, only the 2020 Genesis G70 offers a manual transmission option.

Your dollar goes further with the 2020 Genesis G70

Car shoppers looking to buy a mid-tier trim will get better performance from the 2020 Genesis G70. Its twin-turbo V6 is available on the G70 3.3T RWD model at an MSRP of $48,200. Meanwhile, the 2020 Alfa Romeo Giulia doesn’t offer an engine upgrade until the top-tier Quadrifoglio trim, which starts at an MSRP of $74,500.

There’s plenty of value to be found in the base model of the Genesis G70 as well. All of its driver-assistance features come standard. 

The 2020 Alfa Romeo Giulia has some standard driver-assist technologies, such as forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. However, other safety systems, such as lane departure warning, blind spot warning, lane-keep assist, and rear cross-traffic alert, are available at an added cost.

Genesis’ 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty is one of its most significant advantages over the vast majority of its competitors. Alfa Romeo, in contrast, only offers a four-year/50,000-mile basic warranty.

Which car comes out on top?

The 2020 Genesis G70 provides one of the best values in luxury, and it’s tough to ignore. The G70’s $36,000 starting MSRP edges out the $39,400 starting MSRP of the Alfa Romeo Giulia. Plus, it’s easy to overlook the G70’s slight disparity in horsepower since it offers exponentially more value in safety systems and long-term protection.

Overall, the 2020 G70 still offers the excitement sports sedan fans seek while providing immensely better value.