Genesis details 2017 G80 for US market with V6 and V8 options
Genesis, Hyundai’s luxury brand, has confirmed equipment and powertrain details for the 2017 G80 saloon ahead of its US launch, including two engine choices and expanded safety tech.
Genesis has released full details for the 2017 G80 ahead of its arrival in US showrooms, confirming engine choices, standard equipment and safety features for the luxury saloon. The G80, previously sold as the Hyundai Genesis, now sits below the flagship G90 as part of Hyundai’s upmarket push in the United States. With the launch of the G80, Genesis is establishing itself as a standalone luxury brand, aiming to compete with established executive saloon rivals from Europe and Japan.
Genesis G80: Introduction and Market Position
Design and Branding
The 2017 G80 retains much of the styling from its predecessor, the Hyundai Genesis, but now features the new Genesis badge in place of Hyundai logos. The exterior design remains largely unchanged, with a focus on understated elegance and premium details. Buyers will notice Bi-Xenon HID headlights, LED daytime running lights and a choice of 18- or 19-inch alloy wheels as part of the standard specification. These elements help to reinforce the G80's premium positioning in the US market.
Powertrains and Performance
US buyers will have a choice between two engines. The entry-level 3.8-litre V6 produces 311 horsepower and 293 lb-ft of torque, while those seeking more performance can opt for the 5.0-litre V8 delivering 420 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic gearbox, which is standard across the range. Rear-wheel drive is standard, while the V6 model can also be specified with all-wheel drive for improved traction in varied conditions. According to Genesis, the all-wheel-drive V6 achieves fuel economy figures of 16 mpg in the city, 25 mpg on the highway, and 19 mpg combined.
Interior Features and Comfort
Inside, the G80 offers a well-appointed cabin with a focus on comfort and technology. Standard features include leather upholstery, 12-way power adjustable front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control and heated front seats. The infotainment system comes with an 8-inch touchscreen that supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, catering to a wide range of smartphone users. The interior design remains familiar to those who knew the Hyundai Genesis, but the materials and finish are intended to meet higher expectations for luxury vehicles.
Optional Equipment and Upgrades
- Panoramic glass sunroof
- Heads-up display
- Ventilated front seats
- Genuine wood or aluminium interior trim
- Upgraded 9.2-inch infotainment screen
- Lexicon 17-speaker audio system
These optional features allow buyers to further personalise their G80, adding both convenience and a sense of exclusivity to the driving experience. The availability of a panoramic sunroof and high-end audio system helps the G80 appeal to customers seeking a more bespoke luxury saloon.
Safety Technology
Genesis has equipped the G80 with a comprehensive suite of active safety systems as standard. These include Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Detection and Smart Cruise Control with stop and go functionality. Such features are designed to enhance driver confidence and occupant safety, positioning the G80 as a technologically advanced option in its class. The inclusion of these systems as standard equipment demonstrates Genesis’s commitment to safety and value in the luxury segment.
Genesis Brand Transition and Market Impact
The 2017 G80 marks Genesis’s first standalone saloon for the US, following its separation from the Hyundai badge. By offering a strong blend of performance, luxury, and safety features, Genesis aims to establish itself as a credible alternative to established German and Japanese executive saloons. The transition from Hyundai Genesis to Genesis G80 signifies the brand’s intention to carve out its own identity in the competitive luxury market. Early interest in the G80 may set the stage for further expansion of the Genesis range in the United States, as the brand looks to build recognition and loyalty among American luxury car buyers.
Summary of Key Specifications
| Engines | 3.8-litre V6 (311 hp), 5.0-litre V8 (420 hp) |
|---|---|
| Transmission | Eight-speed automatic |
| Drive | Rear-wheel drive standard, all-wheel drive optional on V6 |
| Fuel Economy (AWD V6) | 16 mpg city / 25 mpg highway / 19 mpg combined |
| Standard Features | Leather upholstery, 12-way power seats, dual-zone climate, heated front seats, 8-inch infotainment with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Bi-Xenon HID headlights, LED DRLs, 18- or 19-inch wheels |
| Safety Features (Standard) | Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Detection, Smart Cruise Control |
