Select a year
- Highs Gutsy twin-turbo V-6, cushiony ride quality, nicely appointed cabin.
- Lows Base model has languid acceleration, numb steering, fixed rear seats limit cargo capacity.
- Verdict The G80 sedan offsets its pedestrian design with legit luxury touches and strong value.
Overview
The 2020 Genesis G80 stands out in a class full of snazzy mid-size luxury cars, but that has more to do with its intriguing engine options and lower price than style. Make no mistake, this Genesis isn't a cut-rate sedan masquerading as upper-class transportation. Instead, its creamy ride and comfortable cabin provide an upscale experience to a wider spectrum of consumers. While the base engine is better off avoided, both its twin-turbo V-6 and V-8 make great sounds and provide great acceleration. A smorgasbord of desirable features and standard driver assists round out the 2020 G80's roster of reasons to consider it over pricier alternatives.
What's New for 2020?
For 2020, Genesis doesn't make any meaningful changes to the G80 lineup. While we're waiting for the next-generation model to officially debut in the near future, we do know that it will no longer offer a V-8 engine and we've spotted a camouflaged version of the 2021 Genesis G80 testing.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
Since the only way to get the 365-hp twin-turbo V-6 is on the Sport model, that's the 2020 G80 we'd recommend. Those who want the all-weather capability of all-wheel drive will have to spend an extra $2500. Every G80 Sport is equipped with performance-oriented features such as unique 19-inch wheels and a sport-tuned suspension. Likewise, its standard niceties include power-adjustable sport seats, carbon-fiber interior trim, a faux-suede headliner, a head-up display, heated and ventilated front seats, wireless charging, and more. Other than a selection of paint colors and either a black or gray leather interior, there are no other options or packages.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Every 2020 G80 has an eight-speed automatic transmission that pairs with rear- or all-wheel drive. The base model features an underwhelming naturally aspirated V-6 engine. The Sport model's speedy twin-turbo V-6 is the sweetheart of the engine lineup, whereas the G80 Ultimate's V-8 is refined and more powerful. However, it's less fuel efficient and thousands of dollars more expensive. The standard G80 is poised and tuned for comfort. The suspension is well damped and, while not overly soft, provides a relaxed ride that soaks up road imperfections quite well. Body motions are nicely controlled, and the whole package feels balanced and harmonious. As is today's luxury-car norm, the steering wheel transmits only a small amount of feedback from the road to the driver's hands. The G80 Sport features an exclusive adaptive suspension that increases damping force during aggressive driving without sacrificing cruising comfort.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
Fuel efficiency is not something the 2020 G80 touts on its résumé, especially when it's competing against a raft of turbocharged four-cylinder rivals for the same job. Even when compared with performance-oriented sedans, the G80 Sport guzzles more fuel. Our test vehicles—one with the base V-6 and the other boasting the twin-turbo V-6—both surprised us with a better than expected result on our 200-mile fuel-economy route, earning 28 and 26 mpg, respectively.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
While the interior styling is hardly groundbreaking, the G80's cabin appointments echo its luxury positioning—even base models are well equipped. A smattering of buttons on the dashboard and center console handle climate and infotainment controls. Thankfully, Genesis hasn't bought into the recent paradigm of burying the controls in the center screen, and that's a welcome feature. Outward visibility is good, thanks to large windows and smartly designed body structure elements. Stretching out is easy in the G80's front seat, and the outboard rear seats are also spacious. Headroom in both rows is generous, and the seat cushioning is plush enough for daylong slogs. Despite its large exterior dimensions, the G80's cargo-hauling capabilities fall behind those of its trimmer rivals. It can handle a couple of sets of golf clubs in the trunk, but bulkier items will pose a challenge. While we fit five carry-on suitcases in the G80's trunk, that was the limit since the rear seats don't fold.
Infotainment and Connectivity
All 2020 G80s come with either an 8.0- or 9.2-inch touchscreen and plenty of connectivity features. We found the interface relatively intuitive, and users familiar with tablets and smartphones will, too. Navigation is standard, as are Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. With only one USB port in the car, however, the G80 can have only one device plugged in at a time.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Overall Safety Rating (NHTSA)
The 2020 G80 earned a five-star crash-test rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and the previous model year was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It also has a comprehensive list of standard driver-assistance technology. Key safety features include:
- Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking
- Standard lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist
- Standard adaptive cruise control
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
No manufacturer comes close to the G80 in terms of warranty coverage. Genesis offers what is, hands down, the most comprehensive coverage in its class. Three years of complimentary scheduled maintenance seals the deal.
- Limited warranty covers 5 years or 60,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers 10 years or 100,000 miles
- Complimentary scheduled maintenance is covered for 3 years or 36,000 miles
