The 2024 Genesis G80 and Volvo S90 are midsize luxury sedans packed with features and delivering superb driving dynamics. Of the two, the G80 felt a little sportier during our many test drives with it. Having undergone a mid-cycle refresh a couple of model years ago, the 2024 G80 gets noteworthy updates, such as the standard fitment of all-wheel drive (AWD).
The Volvo S90’s driving experience feels more relaxed and altogether mellower than that of not only the G80 but many rivals from Audi, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Acura. That’s not a bad thing; we’ve come to love how this Volvo sedan glides over road imperfections with ease.
Does one hold the edge over the other in a direct head-to-head comparison? To find out, let’s dive into the highlights of the G80 and S90.
2024 Genesis G80
The 2024 G80 starts at $55,650, including a $1,250 factory-to-dealer delivery fee. This year’s most noteworthy changes include standard AWD and a more robust entry-level drivetrain.
The 252-horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder used previously has been replaced by a 300-hp 2.5-liter turbo 4-cylinder paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The 3.5 T model offers a 375-hp twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6. This more powerful G80 3.5T variant commands $65,500.
Genesis G80 Highlights
All-wheel drive: We think Genesis was wise to make AWD standard on the G80, giving it an advantage over competing makes and models where the feature is an extra-cost option and making the G80 a tempting alternative to a luxury SUV.
Lexicon stereo: This 21-speaker audio system with 1,050 watts sounds terrific. It is optional in the 2.5T model and standard on the 3.5T. Genesis tucks a pair of subwoofers neatly under the front seats. Music buffs will love this system.
Highway Driving Assist 2: This driver aid uses adaptive cruise control, surround-view cameras, and lane-keeping assist to provide semi-autonomous highway driving. Genesis upgraded Highway Driving Assist this model year, and it’s standard on all G80 models.
Outstanding warranty: The Genesis G80 also scores significant points thanks to its excellent warranty coverage. A 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty is paired with 10 years/100,000 miles of powertrain coverage. Three years or 36,000 miles of complimentary scheduled maintenance are included — the Volvo S90 shares this perk.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the G80 models near you.
2024 Volvo S90
The 2024 Volvo S90 has no significant changes or updates this model year. That’s fine, as the S90 impresses us during every test drive. Yes, there are faster and sportier alternatives with more horsepower and track-tuned suspensions.
The S90 excels at providing a hushed and serene ride; it’s one of the most comfortable midsize luxury sedans. The standard drivetrain is a turbocharged and supercharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder that sends 295 hp to the wheels via an 8-speed automatic. Like the Genesis G80, the S90 has standard AWD.
Volvo S90 Highlights
T8 plug-in hybrid: Most S90 buyers will be satisfied with the entry-level turbo 4-cylinder. It hustles this sizable sedan from zero to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds. However, unlike the Genesis G80, the S90 can also be had as a plug-in hybrid (PHEV). The T8 powertrain uses the same turbo and supercharged 4-cylinder but adds a pair of electric motors. Total output is 455 horsepower, dropping the zero-to-60-mph time below 5.0 seconds. It also delivers 38 miles of electric-only range.
Seating comfort: You won’t want to get out once you’re in the Volvo S90. The S90’s seats provide exceptional support. We suggest Volvo starts marketing them for living rooms, offices, movie theaters, and more. While we’re joking (slightly), these seats are that good.
Adaptive air suspension: Available in the Ultimate trim, this makes the S90 float down the road in even greater comfort. When switched to Sport drive mode, this suspension hunkers the S90 down for increased body control and quicker steering responses.
Pilot Assist: Volvo’s take on a semi-autonomous driving aid, Pilot Assist also uses a combination of adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and various other sensors. The result is a system we’ve found great for taking the stress out of long-distance drives.
Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the S90 models near you.
Similarities
These sedans are two classy and refined choices in the crowded midsize luxury sedan segment. They’re adept at dicing with city traffic or cruising sedately for hour after hour during extended road trips.
Conclusion
We don’t think you could go wrong by visiting several local dealerships and taking the Genesis G80 and Volvo S90 for a test drive. The G80 feels a little fresher and more modern inside and out of the two. It’s more engaging to drive, though we can’t fault the impeccable comfort of the slightly softer, more easy-going S90.
| 2024 Genesis G80 | 2024 Volvo S90 | |
| Starting Price | $55,650 | $59,695 |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | Turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cyl. | Turbocharged and supercharged 2.0-liter 4-cyl. |
| Horsepower | 300 hp @ 5,800 rpm | 295 hp @ 5,400 rpm |
| Torque | 311 lb-ft @ 1,650 rpm | 310 lb-ft @ 2,100 rpm |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic with AWD | 8-speed automatic with AWD |
| Fuel economy MPG | 22 city/30 highway/25 combined | 22 city/31 highway/25 combined |
| Also Available | Twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 | PHEV |
| Specs | ||
| Basic Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 10 years/100,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| NHTSA Overall Safety | 5 stars | NA |
| Max Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 118.5 inches | 120.5 inches |
| Overall Length | 196.7 inches | 200.4 inches |
| Width | 75.8 inches | 74.6 inches |
| Height | 57.7 inches | 57.2 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 38.1 feet | 38.7 feet |
| Headroom, Front | 41.1 inches | 37.8 inches |
| Headroom, Rear | 38.2 inches | 37.8 inches |
| Legroom, Front | 42.2 inches | 42.2 inches |
| Legroom, Rear | 38.7 inches | 40.4 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Front | 58.3 inches | 57.5 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Rear | 57.1 inches | 55.4 inches |
| Cargo Volume | 13.1 cubic feet | 13.5 cubic feet |
