Car review: 2021 Genesis G80 RWD 2.5T Prestige

By Larry Lark, contributor

The 2021 Genesis G80 RWD 2.5T Prestige is a leader in design and luxury-focused technology.

Starting with its oversized crest grill, muscular, tapered lines and 20-inch honeycomb wheels, the Genesis mid-size sedan is instantly recognizable.

“The All-new G80 is the centerpiece of our lineup perfectly weighing athletic and elegant characteristics. This represents the clearest interpretation yet of the Genesis brand identity,” said Sang Yup Lee, Senior Vice President, Head of Global Genesis Design. “Our goal is to offer unique, design-inspired experiences for our customers.”

My tester was powered y a 2.5-liter turbocharged in-line four-cylinder engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The combination delivers 204 horsepower and 32 miles per gallon fuel economy down the highway.

If that doesn’t float your boat, step up to the 3.5-liter turbocharged V6 and feel 380 horsepower at your beck and call.

And because performance doesn’t mean acceleration to everybody, acoustic glass is utilized for the windshield and all doors. Similarly, the G80 features improved door sealing, new engine compartment sound insulation and resonant sound-reducing wheels to ensure indoor quietness and class-leading, low levels of noise. In addition, the electronically controlled suspension with road preview, enhances ride quality by reducing road impacts using information supplied through the front camera.

As a result, Genesis glides down the road, with the smooth quiet ride creating the illusion of 55 miles per hour while driving 70.

Both headroom and legroom were increased by lowering the seating height of the second row, allowing for both more interior room and a more dramatic roofline. Completing the space, the G80 features leather seating, steering wheel surfaces, soft-touch fabrics and coatings as well as open pore wood trim finishes.

The G80 offers a high level of convenience to drivers with a suite of new technology. Each new feature is focused on further and seamlessly integrating the G80 with its client’s lifestyle, home, devices and preferences.

Highlights include a remote smart parking assistant, 12.3-inch, 3D cluster, integrated controller, 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Genesis CarPay, valet mode, home connect, phone connectivity, and over-the-air, wireless updates to the navigation system.

Other comfort and convenience features include a rearview camera, hands-free trunk dual front and single rear USB ports, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, heated front seats, and premium navigation.

A ”Prestige Package” ($4,300) adds leather seating surfaces, heated rear seats and steering wheel, power door closure, wireless device charger, rear occupant alert, surround view monitor, blind spot monitor and parking collision avoidance.

An “Advance Package” ($4,600) adds ventilated front seats, power rear and side sunshades, three-zone climate control, power trunk, Lexicon premium audio system with 21 speakers, and a panoramic sunroof.

Genesis goes heavy on safety features as well.

State-of-the-art active and passive safety systems deliver complete driver and passenger security. Features include smart cruise control, highway driving assist, forward collision avoidance assist, and blind spot collision avoidance assist.

Completing the safety portion of the equation are driver attention warning, lane following assist, safe exit assist, rear cross-traffic collision avoidance and a parking distance warning.

Bottom line: Genesis G80 provides luxury style and safety at a lower price that German competitors. If you’re not hellbent on acquiring a logo, the G80 is worth the time of a test drive.

Base Price: $48,725

Price As Driven: $58,025

Destination charge is included in base price. Vehicles are provided by the manufacturer. List price may vary at local dealerships.