When one currently thinks of premium automakers, they think of Audi, BMW, Lexus, and possibly Mercedes-Benz too. Soon, there’s going to be another name added to that list. Hailing from Korea, Genesis is South Korean manufacturer Hyundai’s luxury arm and is out to challenge those who have been ruling the segment for decades on end.
Exterior
The Genesis G80 is the second Genesis product, succeeding the flagship G90 and preceding the sportier G70. The exterior design exudes luxury and turns heads despite it flaunting a badge that not many have seen. The wings that flank the Genesis insignia are an indicator of what is to come with the brand flying to new heights in the near future. Having said that, a chrome or satin silver grille wouldn’t go amiss to give the G80 a boost in road presence.
Interior
Well-crafted and beautiful, the cabin’s fit, finish, and design are extremely impressive especially when had in a light brown hue. The horizonal layout of the dashboard gives the cabin a sense of openness in the front, despite many wanting to be chauffeured in limo comfort and style in the back. Strictly a 4-seat carriage, the G80’s desirability is likely to be affected inversely should it be made a 5-seater option.
Features
The Genesis G80 welcomes a long list of technological features to match the segment’s benchmark. There’s a Head Up Display unit, bi-xenon lights, and a 360-degree around view camera that make driving safer. On the comfort front, there’s a panoramic roof, heated and cooled front seats, and a 12-way power adjustable driver’s seat, while a 9.2-inch infotainment screen and 17-speaker audio system make up the entertainment features.
Drive
Competing alongside the Audi A6, BMW 5-Series, Lexus ES, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, the Genesis G80 with its 5.0-liter V8 engine gives its competition a run for their money. The 8-speed transmission that it is paired to, is silky smooth and is tasked with delivering a whopping 420-horsepower to all four wheels.
Although there is a smaller engine option available (V6) for those who don’t require the power of a V8, the satisfaction and instantaneous acceleration that the larger engine provides is unmatchable. A few safety features that help keep drivers and passengers safe always are adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, automated emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring.
Verdict
The fully-loaded Genesis G80 commands a price tag of AED 260,000, which is far lesser than its German and Japanese rivals. Matching them, or possibly even surpassing them in certain aspects, the Genesis G80 is a great car and worthy of spreading the Genesis nameplate across the globe. All that’s left to say then is, Genesis, welcome to the premium club.
Pros:
- Head-turning design
- Powerful V8 engine
Cons:
- Rubberized buttons on the steering take away from the premium feel of the cabin
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