IT'S one of those cars that cause you to take a second over-the-shoulder look.

Sleekly styled with an unusual headlight arrangement and flowing curves, it's adorned in matt silver paintwork.

And the badge is a new one to most - Genesis, the posh branch Hyundai.

The model we've been driving is the G70 Shooting Brake, that's setting its stall at premium sporting estates such as Audi's A4 Avant and the BMW 3 Series Touring.

With swoopy lines, coupe cues and a huge front grille, the G70 has plenty of road presence, and is definitely more striking looking than most German offerings in its sector.

Genesis launched last year, offers a subscription service for its cars, and has no traditional dealers. And although the styling and appearance look quite radical, there are fewer surprises under the bonnet or the general workings. As yet there's no electric propulsion unfortunately.

There are three engines, a diesel and two petrols, all with four cylinder blocks. We sampled the more powerful of the petrols with 240bhp. With a sprint time of 6.4seconds to 62mph it's quick enough for most.

The turbo 2.0-litre is whisper quiet when not stretched but extend the revs and becomes a tad harsh. Bags of torque from the four-pot unit and its well matched to the eight speed automatic gearbox which comes with steering wheel paddle change.

It's a pleasant car to drive thanks to good balance, rear drive and ample power. But those expecting sporting dynamics to match the racy appearance may be disappointed. Steering, though quite high geared, offers little feedback to the helm.

It feels most at home on A-roads or motorways, although cornering roll is well controlled and there's no shortage of adhesion.

The cabin is a cosy and inviting place to be and will certainly draw sales on showroom visits. High grade quilted leather seats, 12-inch digital display and blind spot monitor relayed to the tachometer - all impressive stuff and appropriate hallmarks of a premium model.

There's plenty of room up front, and sufficient in the rear although passengers there may feel cramped if those in the front choose to slide their seats right back. The seats themselves are electrically adjustable and extremely comfortable.

Boot space is about average for the class with room for 465 litres of luggage. This extends to 1,535 litres when the rear seats are folded, a simple single action. The luggage platform is flat and a powered tailgate is standard.

With no electrification - not even a mild hybrid - it's inevitable that fuel consumption is affected. We managed an average of 26mpg during some fast running. Some owners may get closer 30mpg with gentler driving. High CO2 emissions will unfortunately count against the Shooting Brake when trying to attract company car buyers.