Genesis G80 review
If you’re looking for a capable and luxurious executive saloon that runs the class leaders close, then the Genesis G80 is a worthy alternative
The Genesis G80 executive saloon is a car that immediately grabs your attention: the exterior is suitably stylish, while a peek inside the luxurious, upmarket cabin highlights how committed the Korean luxury car brand is to winning buyers from the likes of Mercedes, BMW and Audi.
The fit and finish of the G80 certainly passes muster in this hard-fought sector, but the car doesn’t possess the full breadth of skills to beat very best in class. The ride is a little firm which compromises comfort and the lack of an electrified model at launch means rivals are more efficient and offer better running costs.
About the Genesis G80
‘If you’re going to do something, do it right first time’. Genesis could easily have had this mantra scrawled indelibly over the office whiteboards back at its Korean HQ, because the all-new G80 executive saloon is no tentative toe in the water. Genesis has arrived with a car sporting all of the key features needed to succeed in this hard-fought premium sector, at first glance at least.
Taking on the likes of the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes E-Class is no easy task. The iconic German manufacturers have a wealth of experience in producing cars that manage to combine impressive levels of comfort and refinement with stylish interiors and the latest on-board technology. The fact that they’re generally good to drive as well just makes the quest to create a competitive rival all the more difficult.
Of course there are other executive saloons that offer slightly different takes on the luxury theme. The understated Audi A6 has a sophisticated interior and a superb level of build quality, while the DS 9 offers something different from the norm. Business users, with an eye on running costs, could be interested in the hybrid tech of the Lexus ES or Volvo S90, while others might choose the quintessentially British, yet impressively capable, Jaguar XF.
Genesis is offering the G80 with a choice of a 300bhp 2.5-litre petrol engine or a 206bhp 2.2-litre diesel unit, with an all-electric model due to complete the lineup later in 2021. The powerful petrol brings the benefits of all-wheel-drive, while the oil-burner puts its power through the rear wheels - both use an eight-speed automatic transmission.
True to its executive aspirations, the G80 comes with a generous level of standard kit. Two specifications are available: the Premium Line offers 19-inch alloys, LED headlights, power folding mirrors, electrically-adjustable heated front seats, dual zone air-conditioning, front and rear parking sensors and a smart cruise control function. Upgrading to the Luxury Line version means you’ll need to part with an extra £5,000, but you get extra features such as bigger 20-inch wheels, leather upholstery, a heated steering wheel and a powered tailgate.
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