2022 Genesis G70 Shooting Brake: Do you really need a crossover?

We don't get station wagons that often in the Philippines. If you look at our buyer's guide, there are only four available. The (very) shortlist includes the Volkswagen Santana GTS, Mazda 6 Sportwagon, Subaru Levorg, and the Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo. Let's just say none of these cars are flying off dealer lots as fast as crossovers.

Despite that, there are still wagon enthusiasts around. With that, those who prefer those over crossovers might like the latest model from Genesis. It's called the G70 Shooting Brake, and it asks the question: do you really need a crossover? Better yet, who wouldn't want a sporty and practical car that can carry all (or most) of your luggage?

On paper, the G70 Shooting Brake is essentially a long-roof version of the standard G70 sedan. If you take a look at the reviews abroad, the four-door G70 received praises for its driving dynamics and handling. Lengthening it and adding an extra door adds a more practical element, and it promises a sporty drive even with the extra sheet metal. And because it's low to the ground, it should handle better than a crossover.

The reason why anyone would consider a wagon over a sedan is extra cargo capacity. Genesis did not reveal the volume for the Shooting Brake, but we're sure it's more than the sedan's 330 liters. A safe estimate would be around 600 to 700 liters, which is on par with most compact crossovers. Fold the seats down and it might even have an extra 200 liters.

It even has an all-wheel-drive option which is helpful in foul weather. But even if you don't go for that, it comes with stability control to keep you on the road. Not only that, one of the engine options includes a 2.2-liter turbodiesel that's good for 202 PS and 441 Nm of torque. With that, you can think of the G70 Shooting Brake as a more luxurious and sportier Tucson CRDi. But with rear-wheel drive standard, you can also kick the tail out, in the proper venue, of course.

Unfortunately, the G70 Shooting Brake doesn't come with high ground clearance. While that's one of the reasons why people choose crossovers over wagons, how often will you need a few inches off the ground? If you don't spend time on dirt roads or ford deep floods regularly, a wagon should be fine, no matter the brand.

As for the odds of the G70 Shooting Brake coming to the Philippines, it's rather slim. Of course, that could change if Hyundai Philippines decide to bring over their luxury marque here.