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Car Review: 2017 Genesis G90 The Next Level of Luxury Review By Larry Nutson +VIDEO


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2017 Genesis G90 Review

By Larry Nutson
Senior Editor and Bureau Chief
Chicago Bureau
The Auto Channel


The Eagles’ rock tune “New Kid in Town” comes to mind. However, although new, this kid is ready to fit in. Genesis is the new stand-alone luxury brand from Hyundai. It’s the new idea of luxury. It’s the Korean take on luxury.

We’re familiar with American, European and Japanese luxury in the auto market and each offer their take on defining luxury. The Genesis brand plans to bring six new models to the U.S. by 2020. Already they have a two-sedan model range—the flagship top-of-the-line G90 and the G80, which was previously the Hyundai Genesis.


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For perspective, the 2017 G90 starts at $68,100 for the Premium trim, V6 powered rear-drive model. The G90 is offered in Premium and Ultimate trims, with V6 or V8 power respectively, and with rear-wheel or all-wheel drive with either.

I drove the V6-powered G90 AWD 3.3T Premium priced at $70,600. Everything is standard; there are no options. So it’s engine choice and the drive system. Oh, and color! The two V8-powered 5.0 Ultimate models are priced at $69,700 and $72,200.

The premium luxury segment is tough to break in to. The Europeans are very well established and offer a lot of instant recognition on the road. Some of the high-end premium luxury models easily hit the $100,000 range. Comparatively, the G90’s pricing certainly makes it attractive.

The twin-turbo V6 is rated at 365HP and the V8 at 420 HP. Both use an eight-speed automatic. Acceleration, highway merging and passing was done competently in the V6 I drove. My driving was usually alone, but from time to time my wife was along; in other words the G90 was not heavily loaded. I might consider the V8 if I lived in hilly country, drove heavily loaded and especially if you need AWD too.

A four-mode selector offers the choice of Eco, Smart, Sport and Individual that adjust suspension, steering and stability control. The Smart mode analyzes driving style and adjusts shift character, engine torque response and suspension in real-time conditions.

EPA test cycle fuel economy ratings for both engines are within one MPG of each other. The V6 is EPA-rated at 17 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. I would decide on the engine based on your usage needs as I mentioned previously.




The added features on the V8 Ultimate are mostly related to power functions and comfort items for the rear passengers. Thus we can see the expectation is that the V8 model will get lots of rear seat usage in daily life.

The G90 comes fully loaded including all the latest driver-assistance safety features such as smart cruise control, lane keep assist and forward emergency braking. It’s an IIHS Top Safety Pick plus. The interior is plush and comfortable with leather everywhere and various applications of wood grain trim. The front driver seat adjusts 22-ways; there’s power door closers; the heated seats and steering wheel have multiple temperature settings; there’s power operated window shades for the rear door glass and backlight.


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A rotary dial in the center console allows for choices and selections on the 12.3-inch display screen. A nicely placed row of buttons also allow for quick access to HVAC and audio functions. A cabin CO2-level sensor and Air Quality System allows additional fresh air to enter the cabin when needed—helping to keep you from getting drowsy. The audio system has seventeen speakers and a 10-inch subwoofer. An analog clock adds a nice touch of tradition.

On my first drive in the G90 I just sat parked for a lengthy time just learning and playing with all the features and equipment. There’s a lot of high value content on the G90.

To this point, the 2017 Genesis G90 was one of three finalists for the 2017 North American Car of the Year. It didn’t win. But, the point is to be a finalist a vehicle has to significantly raise the bar in the segment in which it competes. The G90 does.


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The overall design of the G90, both in and out, is what I would describe as understated elegance. At the rear, the taillights remind me a bit of a Bentley. The long wheelbase and overall length give the G90 a very nice road presence while also delivering a plush and comfortable ride. However, the ride is not soft and mushy. The refined adaptive suspension with electronic damping is well tuned and overall ride and handling dynamics are very reassuring and confident. The G90 is quiet. NVH characteristics are really good. You hardly hear the engine. There's no wind noise and barely any tire and road noise.


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For more information on the features of the 2017 Genesis G90 take a look at www.genesis.com. And look at The Auto Channel to compare the 2017 Genesis G90 with all of the other premium luxury sedans.

Along with the 5-year/60,000 mile warranty the G90 comes with 3-year/36,000 mile complimentary scheduled maintenance as well as complimentary valet service. Genesis will come and pick up your car, take it for service and return it when done. This is the new definition of luxury.

The 2017 Genesis G90 has already received a number of awards and is on sale and available for delivery now.

As I was wrapping up this review Genesis announced a suite of new technological enhancements designed to heighten the owner experience. Included is the ability for owners to control their Genesis vehicle directly from their wrist with an all-new Genesis smartwatch app. The all-new Genesis Intelligent Assistant app adds Apple Watch and Android Wear integration.

© 2017 Larry Nutson, the Chicago Car Guy



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2017 Genesis G90 Photo Gallery


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