Used 2018 Genesis G80

Once known as the Hyundai Genesis, the 2018 Genesis G80 luxury sedan is now the anchor vehicle for Hyundai’s new luxury division. As a luxury sedan, the G80 checks all the right boxes. The styling is solid, if not a bit Audi-esque, the interior is loaded with features, and the engine choices challenge the best designs from BMW, Audi, Cadillac and Lexus. While the driving characteristics are not yet up to the standards set by these competitors, neither is the price tag. Along with its newly available twin-turbocharged V6 and optional all-wheel drive, the Genesis G80 luxury performance sedan for 2018 offers one of the longest standard warranties of any luxury brand.

Unlike some manufacturers who jump head first into a new niche, Hyundai has been steadily building its reputation as a quality builder of cars and SUVs. So when it first challenged more established luxury brands with its Genesis sedan, critics were roundly proved wrong when buyers took to the car like flies to honey. The logical next step was the creation of its own luxury division, which has spawned the 2018 Genesis G80 luxury sedan. With a ride more Lexus GS than BMW 5 Series, the G80 appeals to those who seek comfort, power and all the latest bells and whistles in a vehicle that is also safe, attractive and reasonably priced. From the base V6 and potent V8 versions, to the new twin-turbocharged Sport, the Genesis G80 sedan for 2018 provides everything you’ll find in an Audi A6 or Lexus GS at a price neither of them can match.

The Genesis G80 for 2018 includes a leather-lined, 5-passenger interior among the roomiest in its class, making it a pleasurable place for all occupants. In addition to its sheer space, we appreciate the Genesis’ layout. Though it offers all the trappings of a luxury car — climate-controlled seats, power-rear window shade, and center-mounted touch-screen display that is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphones — controls are remarkably easy to use. The G80 also offers buttons and knobs that are a snap to use. The front seats rate high in overall comfort, and the driving position offers a good view out.

As with its interior, the 2018 Genesis G80’s body lines are clean and elegant. Up front, the G80 gets a new, more imposing front-end treatment. From there, this luxury sedan has long, attractive lines that convey a sense of quality and refinement. The trunk line finishes in an aerodynamic sloping design reminiscent of an Audi A7 fastback. Genesis G80 models with the 5.0-liter V8 can be distinguished from the rear via their quad exhaust outlets. And, of course, all models wear the new Genesis winged badge on the rear of the automatically opening trunk.

ACTIVE SAFETY FEATURES
Ever-increasing distractions while driving necessitate more driver assists to help keep us safe. Reassuringly, every 2018 Genesis G80 luxury sedan includes as standard automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist and even a system to help keep the driver from dozing off at the wheel.

IN-CABIN CO2 SENSOR
The dangers of CO2 build-up inside the cabin are well known. Colorless and odorless, CO2 can quickly cause drowsiness and confusion. The Genesis G80 remedies this concern with the industry’s first built-in CO2 detector that floods the cabin with fresh air when CO2 levels become elevated.

The 2018 Genesis G80 sedan comes in three main trims: Standard, Premium and Ultimate. In base Standard form, it certainly isn’t lacking for features. You’ll get all the active safety and driving features described in "Favorite Things," plus leather interior, power-operated and heated front seats, rain-sensing windshield wipers, HomeLink garage-door opener, rearview camera and auto-dimming rearview mirror. Infotainment includes a navigation system with 8-inch touch-screen display and 7-speaker AM/FM/CD/HD Radio with Bluetooth connectivity and USB and auxiliary ports. All Genesis G80s include a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, three years/36,000 miles of complimentary maintenance, valet and concierge services, and roadside assistance.

Stepping up to the Premium variant adds an excellent 14-speaker Lexicon audio system, panoramic sunroof, 7-inch color instrument cluster, wireless charging pad, ventilated front seats, power rear sunshade, and front and rear parking sensors. All-wheel drive (AWD) can be had in lieu of the standard rear-wheel drive (RWD) on all versions of the G80, and that option also adds heated rear seats/steering wheel/headlight washers. The Ultimate package features higher-grade leather, a 17-speaker Lexicon system, wood and aluminum interior trim, 9.2-inch touch-screen display, power-operated trunk, and head-up display. To get a V8 G80, you’ll have to opt for the Ultimate package.

Three engine choices are available in the Genesis G80 for 2018: a standard V6, twin-turbo V6 and a potent V8. All use direct-injection technology with a strong focus on drivability, low-end torque and reduced noise, vibration and harshness. Off-the-line response is impressive with all three engines, and fuel economy is decent, more so with the smaller V6s. A smooth and refined 8-speed automatic transmission backs all three engines, with a unique sport-tuned version fitted to the turbocharged Sport trim. As is fitting a luxury sedan, the G80 is rear-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive offered as an option.

3.8-liter V6
311 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
293 lb-ft of torque @ 5,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 19/27 mpg (RWD), 18/25 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)