THE BREAKDOWN:
- Genesis reportedly completed emissions and noise certifications for a facelifted G70.
- This would be the rear-wheel-drive sedan's second facelift.
- Previous rumors suggested Genesis would discontinue the sedan after 2027.
We thought the Genesis G70 was dead. But the company has reportedly completed emissions and noise certifications in Korea for a second facelift of the G70 sedan. The new testing allegedly coincides with the automaker improving the vehicle’s safety to comply with stricter crash regulations.
According to Top Rider, this tweaked version of the G70 should debut soon, and it’s our first indication that the sedan might live past 2027. An August report alleged that Genesis would discontinue the model after that year, but the luxury brand pushed back. In a statement to Motor1, a Genesis spokesperson told us:
'We have no plans to discontinue G70 at this time.’
This doesn’t mean Genesis won’t discontinue it eventually. A second facelift for the model might allow it to exist beyond 2027, but there’s still no confirmation from the automaker that it is developing a second-generation replacement for its entry-level sedan.
Genesis offers the G70 with two engines: a 300-horsepower turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder or a 365-hp turbocharged 3.3-liter V6. Rear-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive optional. An eight-speed automatic is the only gearbox, but Genesis initially offered a manual transmission option before discontinuing it.
It’s unclear when Genesis will unveil the updated G70 or if the automaker will make any significant visual changes. According to the initial report, Genesis might have had to retest the vehicle due to increased weight, which might not result in a tweaked design.
Motor1’s Take: While this facelift might extend its life beyond its rumored 2027 demise, Genesis hasn’t confirmed it’s developing a second-generation G70. For as much as we love rear-wheel-drive sedans, buyers prefer crossovers and SUVs, and Genesis would be smart to expand those offerings instead of investing in a sport sedan. It’s just reality, but rumors of the G70 being a one-generation model aren't new.