New 2019 Genesis G80 Sedan New 2019
Genesis G80 Sedan

A 3.8 Sport package becomes available. It’s a set of cosmetic additions including a dedicated design of 19-inch alloy wheels, alloy-capped pedals and a different steering wheel to the usual 3.8 version, plus some extra features. The 3.8 models also receive an upgraded 8-inch infotainment touch screen and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone integration.

Buyers of premium-midsize sedans have many intriguing choices, including those with sporty sides. The Genesis G80 doesn’t really have that kind of side, despite one version being called the 3.3T Sport and now the introduction of a 3.8 Sport package. The selectable driving modes have a Sport setting, but not a Sport Plus setting. Sport mode enlivens the throttle response, raises the automatic transmission’s shift points, makes the suspension a tad firmer and adds weight to the steering (however, don’t mistake weight for feel). Even in this state, the G80 is supple, serene and not particularly sharp. Clicking over to Normal mode finds the G80’s fundamental nature. This is a comfortable car that can please many people, as long as they aren’t enthusiasts.

ACTIVE SAFETY FEATURES
The more cars with these kinds of features, the safer our roads will be. The Genesis G80 has an array of driver aids that includes forward-collision mitigation with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring and driver-fatigue alerts. And they’re all standard throughout the range.

IN-CABIN CARBON DIOXIDE SENSOR
Colorless and odorless, carbon dioxide (CO2) can quickly cause drowsiness and confusion. The Genesis G80 has the industry’s first built-in detector that floods the cabin with fresh air if CO2 levels become elevated.

Five occupants can sit comfortably within a tranquil, leather-lined cabin that’s one of the most spacious in this premium-midsize-sedan category. The front seats are appropriately cushioned and supportive, while outward vision is generally good. The blind-spot monitoring system mitigates any issues with the wide rear pillars. There are many buttons on the dashboard and steering wheel, but then again, the 2019 G80 has many features (such as heated/ventilated seats and a power rear-window shade in the upper trims). And buttons make more ergonomic sense than navigating a bunch of sub-menus with the infotainment-system’s touch screen.

It seems as though the design of the exterior as well as the interior is not so much the product of a strong vision, but more trying to find the most elegant and effective solutions to the challenges of making a car. Yes, there’s an Audi influence here and there, while everything else seems somewhat generic. At least it’s arguably easy on the eye.

It might be quicker to say what isn’t standard in the 2019 Genesis G80. Let’s start with the basic rear-drive car that comes with a 3.8-liter V6, 18-inch alloy wheels, rain-sensing wipers, self-dimming rearview mirror, adaptive cruise control with stop/go functionality, leather seating surfaces, hands-free trunk operation, power-steering column adjustment, paddle shifters, 8-inch touch screen, navigation, satellite radio, and smartphone integration. The 3.3T version has more power, a sport suspension, panoramic sunroof, multi-view camera, parking sensors at both ends, nicer leather, 9.2-inch touch screen, head-up display, and a 17-speaker Lexicon audio system. The 5.0 brings V8 power and wood trim, but leaves out the sport suspension.

Oddly, those parking sensors in the 3.3T are optional in the 5.0. All versions of the 2019 G80 may be ordered with all-wheel drive that also adds heated rear seats and a heated steering wheel. The 3.8 is eligible for the Sport package mentioned above, which also includes a 14-speaker Lexicon system, parking sensors, ventilated front seats, sunroof, wireless charging and a few other cool items. Or there’s the 3.8 Ultimate package that equips the car in much the same way as the 5.0 model.

Propelling the Genesis G80 is either a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V6, a turbocharged 3.3-liter V6, or a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8, making 311, 365 and 420 horsepower, respectively. All three engines feel refined yet punchy, with linear power delivery and relatively decent fuel economy. The top two achieve their maximum output with premium gasoline. Each engine is linked to an 8-speed automatic transmission, while the 3.3T’s unit is tuned for sportier shifts. Rear-wheel drive (RWD) is the default setup; all-wheel drive (AWD) is optional.

3.8-liter V6
311 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
293 lb-ft of torque @ 5,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 18/26 mpg (RWD), 18/24 mpg (AWD)

3.3-liter twin-turbocharged V6 (Sport)
365 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
376 lb-ft of torque at 1,300-4,500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 17/25 mpg (RWD), 17/24 mpg (AWD)

5.0-liter V8
420 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
383 lb-ft of torque @ 5,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 16/24 mpg (RWD), 15/23 mpg (AWD)

The 2019 Genesis G80 range starts at $42,725 for the rear-drive 3.8 version, which is the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) plus a destination charge of $975. The G80 3.3T Sport starts at $56,225 and the G80 5.0 begins at $57,975. All-wheel drive costs $2,500. These prices are appreciably lower than premium-midsize sedans from the well-established marques, such as the BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Lexus GS, Cadillac CTS and Volvo S90. Many rivals start with a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, not a V6. Check the KBB.com Fair Purchase Price to see what others in your area are paying for their new Genesis G80. All versions include a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, three years/36,000 miles of free maintenance, valet and concierge services, and roadside assistance. This should help the G80 attain respectable resale values, although the Lexus GS is the top performer in this area.

OK, so what's next?
I'm interested in the newest version of this car. What's for sale near me?
I'm interested in this car, and I'd like to trade in my current car while I'm at it.
Then again, maybe I should be thinking about a used car.