Genesis, of course, means "beginning". So let's witness one model in the genesis of Genesis Electrified.
This is the Genesis Electrified GV70. That's its actual name.
Unlike the GV60, which is its own dedicated EV based on the same platform as the Hyundai IONIQ 5 and Kia EV6, the Electrified GV70 is, in most respects, the same vehicle as the gasoline-powered GV70.
Except for---y'know---no gasoline engine under the hood.
This is a two-pronged approach to EVs that BMW is also pursuing---some models that are unlike any gasoline-powered vehicle they offer, and some that are electrified versions of existing vehicles. Genesis also offers an Electrified version of its G80 sedan. The advantage, of course, is familiarity. While some people love driving something completely different from the mainstream, a lot of people don't. The Electrified GV70 is for them---a known quantity---a winner of a luxury SUV---that just happens to not use gasoline. Powered by two electric motors, one driving the front wheels, one driving the rear, it packs 429 horsepower, disposes of 0-60 sprints in 4.5 seconds, and has an estimated range per charge of 236 miles.
The internal combustion GV70 is smooth and quiet. The Electrified GV70 is smoother and quieter. Base price for the 2023 Genesis Electrified GV70 is $66,975 including destination. As with all Genesis models, you get a lot of standard feature content---a complete active safety suite, 20-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, a power hands-free liftgate, leather seating surfaces, aluminum trim, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium navigation system with a 14.5-inch HD screen, Apple CarPlay and Android auto, a wireless device charger and a fingerprint authentication system.
There were only two extra-cost options on our test vehicle. The Makalu Gray paint ($575), and the Prestige Package, with Nappa leather seating surfaces, a leatherette-wrapped upper instrument panel, microfiber suede headliner, a 12.3-inch 3D digital instrument cluster, head-up display, Lexicon premium audio system, active noise control, heated second-row seats, heated steering wheel and manual rear door shades ($6,800). That runs the bottom line on the window sticker to $74,350.
The GV70 has been one of my favorite luxury SUVs since its introduction. Electrification only makes it better.