The Genesis G70 second facelift (IK PE2) has completed Korean emissions and noise certification, according to our colleagues at Top-Rider, while retains powerful turbo engines, and continues the legacy of Korea’s luxury sports sedan—though design changes remain unconfirmed.
Genesis G70 Second Facelift Confirmed
The G70 second facelift (PE2) is officially on the horizon, signaling the continuation of one of Korea’s most respected luxury sports sedans. Genesis recently completed the Korean emissions and noise certification for the updated G70, paving the way for its market launch as the 2026 Genesis G70, even as long-running rumors of discontinuation continue to circulate.
At this stage, it remains unknown whether the second facelift will introduce any exterior or interior design changes. Genesis has yet to release official images or styling details, suggesting that updates may focus more on regulatory compliance and mechanical refinement rather than visual alterations.
Improved Safety, Slight Weight Increase
To comply with stricter global crash test regulations, the second facelift of the Genesis G70 is expected to feature a slight increase in curb weight. As a result, fuel efficiency may vary marginally depending on the chosen powertrain, while overall performance levels are expected to remain consistent with the current model.
Powertrain Lineup Remains Unchanged
The domestic Korean lineup will continue with three familiar configurations:
- Genesis G70 2.5T
- Genesis G70 2.5T Shooting Brake
- Genesis G70 3.3T
All variants will be available with rear-wheel drive (2WD) or all-wheel drive (AWD).
Engine specifications:
- 2.5T Turbocharged 4-cylinder
- 304 horsepower
- 43.0 kg·m torque
- 3.3T Turbocharged V6
- 370 horsepower
- 52.0 kg·m torque
These outputs continue to position the G70 as one of the most performance-focused sedans in the premium D-segment.
A Proven Luxury Sports Sedan
Since its debut in September 2017, the G70 (IK) has earned widespread recognition for its driving dynamics and build quality. Capable of 0–100 km/h in 4.7 seconds with a top speed of 270 km/h, the G70 has become a benchmark for Genesis’s performance ambitions and has collected numerous global awards.
Premium D-Segment Market in Decline
The premium D-segment sedan market has contracted significantly amid the rapid rise of SUVs and electric vehicles. In South Korea, the Kia Stinger was discontinued in 2023, while competitors such as the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, and Lexus IS are all experiencing declining sales.
This shift has contributed to ongoing speculation about the G70’s future, especially given the absence of a confirmed next-generation model.
Why the Genesis G70 Still Matters
Despite market headwinds, the second facelift of the G70 indicates that Genesis is committed to maintaining the Korean luxury sports sedan tradition. The brand’s sedan lineup has increasingly leaned toward chauffeur-driven models, leaving the G70 and GV70 as the primary vehicles capable of attracting younger, enthusiast-oriented buyers.
From a long-term brand perspective, the G70 remains strategically important.
Final Thoughts
Although design changes for the G70 have not yet been confirmed, the completion of Korean certification and the continuation of proven powertrains ensure that the model will live on for another cycle. In a market dominated by SUVs and EVs, the Genesis G70 remains a rare and meaningful performance sedan.
