Genesis Lineup Takes Shape as the G80 Joins the Flagship G90

(Credit: © Genesis)

Hyundai’s new Genesis brand has the lofty goal of giving buyers alternatives to Mercedes, BMW, and Audi. Today, Genesis has officially gained its second U.S.-spec vehicle, officially giving the brand “lineup status.” Ladies and gents, meet the Hyundai Genesis… err, the Genesis G80.

» Related: The 2017 Genesis G90 Starts from $68,100

While I am all for this new journey into the luxury segment by Hyundai, the fact that the G80 is little more than a rebadged Hyundai Genesis is a tad disheartening. I was hoping to, at the very least, see a U.S. Version of the Sport model, which features a twin-turbo 3.3-liter V-6. Sadly, we are not getting that… yet.

(Credit: © Genesis)

For the initial launch, the Genesis G80 will come with the same two engines as the current Genesis. This means the base engine will be a 3.8-liter V-6 that produces 311 horsepower and 293 pound-feet of torque and the optional engine will be the 5.0-liter Tau V-8 that cranks out 420 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. Both engines pair with an eight-speed auto transmission and the V-6 model will have optional all-wheel drive available.

Where the G80 exceeds the Genesis that preceded it is its standard features. For example, the 2017 G80 will come standard with a slew of safety features that were options on the Genesis, including auto emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot detection, lane-keep assist, high-beam assist, and a rearview camera. Other standard equipment includes Hyundai’s Smart Trunk (trunk automatically opens after three seconds of standing near it with the key fob), an 8-inch touchscreen, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

(Credit: © Genesis)

While the G80 is almost visually identical to the Genesis that it replaces, there are a few minor changes. Other than the badges, these changes include tweaked lighting and a quad-exit exhaust system.

Hyundai hasn’t released pricing on the 2017 Genesis G80, but we should see that information roll out soon. Stay tuned for updates.