G70

Make
Genesis
Segment
Sedan

Hyundai recently showed a prototype version of the Sonata N-Line, which will be the sportiest trim level in the 2020 Sonata range. It will be powered by a new 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 290 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque routing power to the front wheels via a new eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. Not only will this new engine put the Sonata on an even playing field with the likes of the Honda Accord, Mazda6, and Toyota Camry, but Car and Driver now report that the four-pot mill will also see use in the Genesis G70.

The base G70 is currently powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo producing 252 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, meaning this new 2.5-liter mill would offer a healthy bump of at least 38 hp and 50 lb-ft (assuming Genesis doesn't make further modifications for the engine). C/D says the engine change should take place during the 2021 or 2022 model year, meaning the current 2.0-liter should be offered for at least another calendar year. Like the 2.0-liter, this new 2.5-liter engine will slot under the 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6, which produces 365 hp and 376 lb-ft of torque.

Of course, Genesis will have to do some work to fit the new 2.5T under the hood of the G70. That's because the Sonata uses a transverse, front-wheel-drive engine layout (mounted side-to-side) rather than a longitudinal, rear-wheel-drive layout (front-to-back) like the G70. This engine change also has serious repercussions for the G70's six-speed manual transmission, which may not link up with the 2.5T.

Genesis says the manual only makes up 4% of all G70 sales, so we wouldn't be shocked if the transmission is discontinued when the car is facelifted. As a friendly reminder, if you want a G70 with a manual, now's the time to buy one before it disappears.