2021 Genesis G80 RWD 2.5T - Review by Mark Fulmer

All new Value-Added Luxury Sedan

By Mark Fulmer
The Auto Channel

From the headlight and grill design to the futuristic interior of flowing refined lines, this new G80 looks, feels, and drives so elegantly and includes such a bouquet of high tech, that all the buzz and applause it gets is simply well deserved.

The interior is a breath of fresh air, devoid of clutter and visual nonsense, the lines mirror the exterior: smooth, balanced, and boldly understated. As you shut the door and adjust the 12-way power seats there is the sensation not unlike the first time you use noise-canceling headphones. Delicious quiet. Even the alert sounds are subtle. And just to bid you a cultured farewell, when you shut it down and exit you are gifted with a piano arpeggio to bid you farewell.

The rear seats are equally comfortable and roomy. The premium audio and HD radio system is delivered through 12 speakers and more than once I found myself sitting in our driveway after errands enjoying the finishing finale of some tastey tunes.

Power is supplied by a new fuel-efficient (22/30/25 mpg) compact turbocharged inline-4 creating 300hp and 311 lb-ft. of torque, all going down to the rear wheels. There is smooth acceleration at all speeds and the suspension, tires,and steering keep you balanced and well centered in the driving lane on both city and country roads.

You select the 8 gear automatic with a center console dial seated behind a selector dial for infotainment choices wich has incremental peg stops that make it much more precise than a touchscreen.

The quite wide (14.5 inches) infotainment screen is in a perfect position to be easily read while still maintaining a peripheral view of the road ahead.

The hands free Smart Trunk with Auto Open revealed a cavernous cargo space so deep you almost expect to hear an echo (13 cubic feet).

There are certain cars that are worth their price tag, but don't just read about it, you need to test drive this sedan to fully realize its excellence.