Don’t use the “H” word to describe the Genesis. Yes, it used to be known as the Hyundai Genesis, but now Genesis is the name of Hyundai’s new luxury brand. The old Hyundai Genesis and Equus models are now the Genesis G80 and G90 luxury sedans. Both are new models for 2017.
Would you love to drive a Beamer or Mercedes but don’t want to spend the money for one of those German cars? The G80 and G90 have all the luxury, technology and top notch materials but cost about 10- to 15-grand less than a comparable BMW or Merdeces-Benz. Of course, you don’t get the brand cache so maybe your neighbors won’t be as impressed. But if luxury and value matter to you more than having a German emblem, they’re definitely worth a look.
For now, you still shop for the G80 and G90 in a Hyundai showroom. But separate dealerships are expected eventually.
The G90 is the flagship sedan of the new Genesis line-up. It’s a full-size luxury sedan aimed at the likes of the Audi A7 and A8, BMW 7-Series, Cadillac CT6, Lexus LS and Mercedes-Benz S-Class, and yes, it gives ‘em a run for the money. Two trims are available: 3.3T Premium and the 5.0 Ultimate. Starting prices range from $68,100 to $72,200. Rear-wheel-drive is standard and all-wheel-drive is available for $2,500.
The G90 comes standard with a 3.3-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine that makes 365 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque. Want more power? Upgrade to the 5.0-liter V8 that generates 420 hp and 383 lb.-ft. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that shifts “like buttah.” My tester has the smaller engine and it had more than enough power for most everyday driving situations.
Choose from Eco, Smart, Sport and Individual driving modes. This is pretty cool: the Smart mode adapts the driving dynamics as you change your driving style. Individual mode takes it a step further and lets you set your ride and handling preferences through a series of menus.
Several driver safety features are standard including blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning with automatic braking and pedestrian detection, lane keep assist, lane change assist, rear cross traffic alert and front and rear parking sensors.
EPA mileage estimates for my tester are 17 mpg city and 24 mpg highway with a combined rating of 20 mpg. I got 20 mpg during my week with a mix of city and highway driving.
The good:
Long list of standard features including head-up display, wireless charging for your devices, and several driver safety technology features.
Beautiful and upscale interior
User friendly infotainment system
Nimble handling; drives like a smaller sedan
Smooth and comfortable ride
10-year, 100,000 mile powertrain warranty
Excellent crash safety ratings
The not-so-good:
Trunk space is smaller than average for the segment
Fuel efficiency is less than average for the class
No status badging to impress the neighbors
Bottom line: The G90 is worth considering If you’re looking for an amazingly well-equipped large sedan that rivals the luxury brands, and you don’t mind that there’s no status badge on your car.
Pricing info:
My tester starts at $68,100. Delivery fee is $950 bringing the grand total to $69,050.
