Bottom line
In an era when the crossover SUV is all the rage, the Genesis G80 3.8 sedan is still worth a look. Value and luxury are two words you don’t often hear in the same sentence—except maybe where the Genesis G80 is concerned. If you’ve been shopping around for a midsize luxury sedan, the G80’s reasonable price tag may be what draws you in. See it in person, however, and its host of other good qualities will likely seal the deal.
Topping that list is the posh interior’s hushed ambiance and top-quality materials. As with all of the brand’s offerings, there’s also a long list of standard amenities. Though the standard 311-horsepower, 3.8-liter V6 isn’t destined to burn up the road, I found that this powertrain delivers more than adequate performance. Those who desire more will find it in the new the 365-horsepower Sport model or the available 420-horsepower V8 version.
While handling is not the G80’s strong suit, it never fails to feel predictable and planted. Instead, the suspension is tuned for comfort rather than speed, giving the G80 the ability to glide serenely over even the most pockmarked pavement.
Figure in a handsome exterior, top crash-test scores and a 10-year/10,000-mile powertrain warranty, and the Genesis G80 is a rare luxury car that’s also a good value.
Strengths
- Priced thousands less than comparable models
- Rides like a luxury car should
- Complimentary maintenance includes valet service.
Weaknesses
- Definitely not a sport sedan
- Limited rear-seat headroom
- So-so fuel economy
Pricing
- Base price: $41,750
- As tested: $42,725
Safety
- NHTSA: Overall: 5 Star (top rating); Front: 5 Star; Side: 5 Star
- IIHS: Small Overlap Front/Moderate Overlap Front: Good (top rating); Side: Good
MPG
- Rear-wheel drive: 18/26
- All-wheel drive: 18/24
Interesting Technology
Available trailer cameras in outside mirrors minimize blind spots
