Genesis, the young Korean luxury brand, has a flagship sedan currently displayed in its second generation and advanced version. This time, it aims to compete with BMW and Mercedes. Previously, it fell short, so will the Koreans succeed this time?
Genesis, the luxury division of Hyundai, is a relatively young brand at only eight years old. When compared to the established German luxury brands, as well as Lexus, Infiniti, and Acura – the luxury divisions of Toyota, Nissan, and Honda respectively – Genesis is still in its infancy. Despite being on the market for only two years, it has already established an impressive and modern electric lineup of models.
One of its flagship models, the G90, represents the brand’s second generation and boasts cutting-edge technology for those with ample financial resources. Competing with the top players in the German automotive industry requires extensive knowledge, investment, and experience, and Genesis has embarked on this journey with its attention-grabbing exterior design.
Forget about the old Hyundai or Genesis. Both brands have gone through a transformation in recent years, and the design of the G90 showcases their strengths. While the Mercedes S-Class and Audi A8 have become predictable, the Lexus LS has become more subdued, and the BMW 7 Series has become conservative, the Korean brand is dynamic and exceptionally elegant. With recurring motifs such as a pair of light strips as a complete unit in each corner, a massive and impressive grille with retractable door handles, the result resembles a grand and impressive coupe. Rest assured that the G90 will turn many heads.
Interior and tech
In the driver’s environment, you’ll find a pair of 12.3-inch digital instrument clusters (with additional front camera display in addition to side cameras) and a touch screen, along with dedicated switches that make it easy to operate menus and climate control. Unfortunately, they insisted here on using bulky knobs for gear selection and system control. This technological influence is wrapped in a variety of high-quality materials that are pleasing to the eye and pleasant to the touch. From the dual-tone leather upholstery with wood accents, to the Alcantara lining on the ceiling and the plush floor carpets that wouldn’t shame a luxury living roon in an upscale neighborhood. There are some cheap plastic areas as well, but not too visible.
The driver’s seat in accordance with the standard in the motor industry offers a plethora of options for adjustment, support, cooling, heating, and massage. And that’s not all, compared to the luxurious rear right seat reserved for a spoiled CEO, which goes above and beyond the offerings of German luxury cars. It includes the ability to recline the backrest, raise the footrest, and tilt the front seat inward, creating an excellent field of vision and the comfort of a true lounge. The occupant of this seat won’t be bored with switches and a touch screen (8″) for controlling entertainment and comfort systems, projecting films on a pair of 10.2″ screens in the backrests of the front seats, or adjusting the blinds with dedicated folding mirrors from the ceiling.
Exterior
When comparing the new Genesis to the outgoing G90, which was already quite large, the new model is even bigger. It boasts an additional 7 cm in length (527.5 cm), 1.5 cm in width (193 cm), and 2 cm in the wheelbase (318 cm) which is already impressively massive. Interestingly, Genesis is also introducing an extended version with an extra 19 cm in length and wheelbase, though the reason for this is not clear. On the other hand, the cargo space is relatively modest at just 340 liters, similar to that of a compact family car.
A touch of luxury
In terms of extras, the Genesis comes with some luxurious features. For instance, it has an electric door opening mechanism akin to Rolls-Royce, complete with a dedicated switch that allows the driver to open the VIP door without stepping out of the car. Additionally, the car boasts a B&O sound system with an impressive 26 speakers, including ones in the ceiling. Moreover, there’s an option for remote control for maneuvering in and out of tight parking spaces.
The driving assistance systems offered by Genesis are also noteworthy. They include autonomous braking, even in reverse and cross traffic situations, lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and active dead spot warning when opening the door in a non-empty space, among others.
Performance
Until Genesis incorporates an electric hybrid system into this vehicle, you’ll get a 3.5-liter V6 engine with twin turbochargers, delivering 375 hp. This engine is 45 horsepower more powerful than the outgoing naturally aspirated V8.
It is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and a constant all-wheel drive system. The car weighs 2.2 tons with only the driver and no fuel, so don’t expect impressive performance. Acceleration from a standstill and mid-range speeds, which are more significant, are subdued. The gearbox has slow response times when downshifting, even when using the manual paddles on the steering wheel.
There’s another version called E-Supercharger which develops 409 hp and uses the 48-volt hybrid system and an electric supercharger to boost the output from the twin-turbo V-6.
The test vehicle came with standard basic suspension, featuring regular coil springs. The upcoming version of the car set to arrive to the U.S will be equipped with air suspension and active rear steering. Nevertheless, we decided to put the limousine to the test on a challenging road. Jebel Jais, the tallest mountain in the United Arab Emirates standing at 1,832 meters above sea level, is located in the Ras Al Khaimah emirate, close to the border with Oman. The road leading to it is one of the most advanced motorways we encountered, boasting well-maintained asphalt, various possible turns, and awe-inspiring desert scenery.
The G90 demonstrated reasonable performance, with confident and expected handling, a tendency for understeer and widening of the turning radius, and a somewhat unresponsive steering and braking system. One area that stood out was the excellent road and wind noise isolation, thanks to the multiple layers of insulation and the effective sound-deadening system.
Plenty of safety features
The Genesis G90 has earned top marks in all crash test categories from the IIHS, except for the headlight test. The G90 features LED headlights with automatic high beams that provide excellent visibility in most situations, but may struggle a bit on sharp left turns.
The 2023 Genesis G90 base trim also comes with a wide range of ADAS features that enhance its safety and convenience. Some of these features are:
- Front/rear automatic emergency braking
- Lane-keeping assistance
- Forward collision warning
- Blind-spot monitors with dedicated cameras
- 360-degree backup monitor
- Parking sensors and parallel park assist
- Highway driving assist with smart cruise control
- Rear-seat reminder and safe exit assist
Additionally, the G90 offers driver assistance features such as driver drowsiness warning and a head-up display to help drivers stay focused on the road. The 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster displays important driver information, and the 12.3-inch center touchscreen allows access to standard navigation or smartphone integration via the Maps app.
Pricing
In the U.S, the Genesis G90 starts at $88,400. In Canada prices start at $115,150.
Conclusion
The Genesis G90 is a car that exudes impressive features. It boasts an elegant design, extensive equipment, top-notch quality, and remarkable comfort. It doesn’t fall short when compared to other high-end cars in its category. While it may not be as dynamic in terms of engine performance and handling, it still holds its own in terms of overall performance.