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- Highs Extremely comfortable ride, good power from standard turbo V-6, excellent value compared to European rivals.
- Lows Conservative styling, missing key tech features, lacks luxury nameplate bragging rights.
- Verdict If you want an opulent luxury sedan and can live without a snobby luxury badge, the G90 is a smooth and powerful choice that undercuts the competition on price.
Overview
The Genesis G90 is an under-the-radar large luxury sedan that competes with the likes of the mighty Mercedes-Benz S-class, Audi A8, and BMW 7-series. Yes, all of these models offer more horsepower, sharper driving dynamics, and a higher overall degree of luxury trimmings. They also end up costing many thousands of dollars more than the G90. This car isn’t all about being a bargain, however. The standard turbocharged V-6 packs a surprising punch, the ride seamlessly softens even the bumpiest road, and the cabin is spacious and filled with quality materials.
What's New for 2018?
Having been introduced only last year, the Genesis G90 sees only minor changes for 2018. Adaptive LED headlights are now standard on every trim, and a rear-seat entertainment system is newly optional.
Pricing
Original MSRP:
- Premium: $69,345
- Ultimate: $72,845
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
We’re normally all about the biggest and most powerful engine that can be fitted to a car, be it a sporty roadster or elegant sedan like the G90. Yet, in this case, the 365-hp twin-turbocharged 3.3-liter V-6 that serves as the standard powertrain is the smarter choice. True enough, the optional 5.0-liter V-8 has the advantage of serving up both 420 horsepower and a better growl during hard acceleration. But the turbo V-6 is just as quick in a straight line, it’s more fuel efficient, and it’s also less expensive. Each engine can be had in rear- or all-wheel drive configuration, and both are paired to a silky eight-speed automatic transmission. While the steering lacks any degree of sportiness, it’s the cossetting ride that defines the G90. The car has an old-school luxury feel in how it operates, and that’s not a bad thing.
Fuel Economy
EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The G90 doesn’t offer cutting-edge design or a game-changing dashboard layout, yet it delivers all the leather, wood, and quality soft-touch trim anyone will want in a large luxury sedan. Space in the first or second row is extremely generous, especially for long-limbed rear occupants who will appreciate the copious amounts of headroom and legroom. Standard comfort touches include heated and cooled front seats, a power-operating rear sunshade, heated steering wheel, Nappa leather seating surfaces, and heated rear seat. One drawback is that the G90 offers only a small pass-through in the rear seatback; the seats themselves can’t be folded to expand trunk space. Luckily, the trunk itself measures in at 15.7 cubic feet, which is average for this class of sedan, and it comes with a hands-free power trunk lid.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The 12.3-inch touchscreen is quick to respond to inputs and has clear graphics and concise menus. Now if only it were compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, or offered the option of a Wi-Fi hotspot. These tech features are notable no-shows on the G90, and it dings the car’s otherwise sterling record for delivering lots of bang for your luxury-sedan buck. What does come standard, other than the user-friendly touchscreen interface, is a wireless smartphone charging pad, HD radio, SiriusXM satellite radio, two USB ports, navigation, and a 17-speaker audio system. New for the 2018 model year, is a rear-seat entertainment system with dual 10.3-inch screens and a DVD player.
Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings
For more information about the Genesis G90’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
Warranty
Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.