Genesis, the Hyundai Motor Group’s luxury brand, originally began as a model name for its flagship. In 2016, the carmaker decided to create a separate brand the used the model name as the brand name, with the model being known as the ‘G80’.
Since then, the first model of the brand has gone through three generations with the current one having been introduced in 2020. Of the one million units Genesis has sold globally, the G80 has accounted for over 400,000 units. An updated version which was announced at the end of 2023 has now gone on sale in Korea, with exports to follow shortly.
Athletic Elegance
The 2024 G80, embodying the brand’s design philosophy of ‘Athletic Elegance’, has received cosmetic changes even in the most minute details. These include a new dual-mesh design which accentuates the sophisticated look of the Two-Line Crest Grille, along with the iconic Two-Line headlamps that use Micro Lens Array technology for superior illumination.
The five double-spoke 20-inch wheel design is reminiscent of an aircraft propeller. It contributes to a dynamic aesthetic and strikes a perfect balance with the parabolic line of the car’s side profile.
The rear diffusers with hidden mufflers now have a distinctive V-shape chrome trim inspired by the Crest Grille, reflecting an eco-friendly aspect of the sedan in the age of electrification.
Beauty of White Space
The interior of the G80 retains the uniquely Korean concept of the ‘Beauty of White Space’, blending in advanced technology throughout the vehicle. The upgraded upholstery features high-quality stitching and materials from leather and aluminium to real wood. Design improvements also include a horn cover with the new Genesis emblem and 2-tone steering wheel.
The spacious 27-inch OLED display integrates the cluster and multimedia screens in a horizontal layout. The display seamlessly extends to the centre fascia, elevating its high-tech sensibility. Genesis designers still favour touch controls for the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) system. The crystal-like Shift By Wire controller has been shaped for a comfortable grip.
In addition, the newly integrated Bang & Olufsen speaker system, designed in real aluminium finish, delivers audio of the highest quality. The brightness of the mood lighting feature has also been improved with indirect lighting to cover a larger surface area, creating a relaxed and cozy ambience.
2 turbocharged powertrain options
This year, the G80 has 2 powertrain options, both turbocharged petrol engines. One has a displacement of 2.5 litres and produces 227 kW (309 ps)/422 Nm, while the other is 3.5 litres with a maximum output of 283 kW (385 ps)/530 Nm.
The G80’s driving dynamics have been improved with newly applied frequency-sensitive shock absorbers. These respond precisely to the frequencies transmitted to the tyres, adjusting based on the car’s speed and the condition of the road surface.
Alongside the inclusion of noise-absorbing tyres, the G80’s ceiling structure has been optimised to reduce vibration and noise from both the road and wind. Intrusion of road noise has also been reduced for a more tranquil cabin environment.
Sport package
Genesis has also introduced a Sport package for the G80 with enhanced driving performance capabilities and some differentiating cosmetic features. The G80 Sport stands out with its Crest Grille, reinforced by a double-layered G-Matrix pattern and expanded air intakes that contribute to a high-performance image.
The G80 Sport with the 3.5-litre engine is also equipped with Rear Wheel Steering. This gives smoother manoeuvring in tight spaces and enables agile movements when changing lanes or avoiding obstacles at medium and high speeds.
An Electronic Limited Slip Differential is also fitted, giving more power delivery on both sides of the wheels for a more stable and dynamic control of cornering at high speeds. Also, exclusive to the G80 Sport 3.5 are Michelin tyres and a Sports+ driving mode.
The G80 range also includes the Electrified G80 with a fully electric powertrain. This has dual motors (136 kW Front, 136 kW Rear) and an 87.2 kWh battery pack which gives a claimed range of up to 455 kms.
Genesis offers a vehicle warranty of 5 years/100,000 kms and powertrain warranty of 10 years/160,000 kms. For the Electrified G80, there is also a separate warranty for the battery pack for 10 years/160,000 kms.
