IT takes something a bit special to make an SUV stand out from the current throng of tall, boxy semi off-roaders that are already crowding the car park.

But, believe it or not, the new Genesis GV 70 does just that...and in the best possible way. Split tail and headlights, smoothly contoured lines and that vital big bold grille ensure it gets noticed.

The new-to-UK brand - the posh product of the Hyundai Kia group - which was introduced into UK last year has an ex-Lamborghini chap as its designer, and it shows.

At the moment, there's a choice between Diesel and petrol, with an all electric version on the horizon. Our choice would be the diesel, unless you have shares in an oil company, as the petrol model is a tad thirsty. Sadly no hybrid is planned.

The four cylinder 2.2-litre diesel, driven here, has ample urge and purrs away quietly, almost as silently as a six-pot. Matched to an eight speed automatic complete with steering wheel paddles, the GV70 is an easy and relaxing car to drive or be driven in. Very little wind noise, tyre rumble or mechanical intrusion unless revved hard.

Acceleration is about par for the course with a sub-eight second rush to 62mph. More significantly, there's plenty of torque so the gears aren't swapping cogs too frequently. By SUV standards, it's pretty athletic with well contained body roll and steering that's a touch sharper than most rivals.

Considerable amount of development work took place in Europe to refine handling to suit our tastes.

Though considerably more frugal than the petrol version, most drivers will struggle to top the 40mpg mark and emissions are relatively high at 189g/km. Our test average was 36mpg.

It's no lightweight at almost two tonnes, but most of the time the decent platform and well tuned suspension defy the physics.

The cabin is a pleasant place to be and certainly reflects Genesis's desire to be considered a premium product - no brittle plastic, rough edges or fake wood. The fascia is effectively grouped within a large, sweeping oval while the central transmission tunnel is home for the rotary gear selector knob and another round control that operates the 15-inch touchscreen.

Among the standard equipment in the Premium Line model are electrically adjustable front seats, leather upholstery and rear view camera. An appealing safety feature is the blind-spot camera which links with the fascia dial display when you switch on an indicator.

It all works rather well and is a welcome change from the regular design favoured by the leading German competitors.

Plenty of room up front both between passenger and driver and more than enough legroom to stretch out. The rear is less favoured when it comes to legroom but headroom isn't an issue.

The boot with a capacity of 540litres will be big enough for most, although the platform is quite high which could make loading heavy items difficult.