The Genesis model from Hyundai was dropped at the end of the 2016 model year, but became its own free-standing brand for 2017. Previously known as the Hyundai Genesis, it is now called the G80. Now these luxury cars are called Genesis G80 (which offers both a 3.8-liter V6 and 5.0-liter V8) and the larger Genesis G90 (which offers both a twin-turbocharged 3.3-liter V6 and 5.0-liter V8).
For its 2015 redesign, Hyundai sent the Genesis luxury car back for more fitness training and delivered a competitor that's more refined and fun to drive than the original. This second-generation Genesis makes for a much more convincing alternative to an Audi A6 or a BMW 5 Series than did its predecessor.
Known for being a great value, financially the G80 continues to be an enticing value proposition. Our fully loaded all-wheel drive, 3.8-liter V6 test car cost about $10,000 less than a comparably equipped Audi, BMW, Cadillac, Jaguar, Lexus, or Mercedes-Benz. Adding all-wheel drive is a key feature in this category. Buyers interested in rocket-ship acceleration can choose the 420-hp, V8-powered Genesis 5.0, although it comes only with rear-wheel drive. Handling is respectable, but the Genesis trails the sporty dynamics typically found with European cars.
The Genesis may not have the brand cachet of its European competitors, either, but shoppers will find that it delivers on substance. The G80 is very quiet; rides comfortably; has a spacious cabin; a smooth, punchy powertrain; and controls that are fairly easy to use.
The G80 offers a suite of standard advanced safety features, including lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and blind-spot monitoring. We found its Lane Keep Assist system so overzealous, however, that we just wanted to shut it off immediately due to frequent alerts.
Factor in the luxurious interior and lengthy warranty coverage, and the G80 proves to be a compelling alternative to the traditional prestige brands.
With a Genesis badge, you may not get the respect you were looking for at the country club. But at least you can afford the membership.