Model Tested: 2020 Genesis G90 RW 5.0
Engine: 5.0-Liter GDI V8
Transmission: 8-Speed Shiftronic Automatic w/Paddle Shifters
Horsepower: 420 • Torque: 383 lb-ft
EPA Rating: 16/City • 24/Highway • 19/Combined
Base Price: $75,700
As Tested: $76,695
Overview: The flagship Genesis G90 rivals some of the world’s finest luxury automobiles in the full-size, luxury, four-door segment. They include the BMW 7-Series, Lexus, LS, Mercedes S-Class, and the Audi A8. The G90 boasts a lower pricetag, and isn’t quite as technology-laden as its competitors.
There are two engine choices — a 3.3-Liter, 383 horsepower V6, and the 420-horse 5.0-Liter V8 powering our test driver. This review focuses on that powerplant only.
Walkaround: The 2020 model year saw the G90 sporting a freshly sculpted front fascia featuring a bold, shield-shaped grille, giving it greater presence and character, along with some new body panels. Bold “Genesis” lettering stretches across the decklid. Despite the design changes, the G90 remains conservatively understated in overall appearance.
Interior: The G90’s cabin boasts impressive leather and wood finish materials, abundant storage, and comfortably plush front seats. The driver’s seat adjusts 22 ways while the front passenger seat only adjusts a mere 16-ways.
The interior’s subdued appeal features a basically horizontal layout, although to some, the analog instrumentation may appear somewhat old school. However, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen incorporates touch controls and a split-screen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard. Absolutely nothing about the cabin’s trim, fabrics, wood, Nappa leather or technology is incongruent. Switches are chrome-plated. Double-stitched leather covers the center console, and seats. Open-pore wood accents add to the high-end feel.
Rear-seat passengers enjoy more than 37 inches of legroom, as they settle into into their heated and cooled seats, listening to the premium Lexicon audio system.
Trunk space is a roomy 15.7 cubic feet.
Behind The Wheel: The G90 showcases a magnificently quiet, comfortably tranquil ride, resulting in a luxurious cruising experience. The adaptive, electronically-controlled shock absorbers are adjustable by the driver, and can filter out bothersome pavement. We found the quietness to be remarkable during a road trip, thanks to active noise cancellation working in concert with the adaptive suspension. Frankly, we were thankful for cruise control because the concept of speed completely diminishes.
The V8’s acceleration is strong and smooth. Some competitors brag on their high-speed handling talents, and Genesis is content to let them. Steering has a light feel, while the available Sport mode boosts steering weight and tightens each seat bolster around the driver. In either mode, the G90 feels completely sure-footed.
Bottom Line: The Genesis G90 is an outstanding value in the full-size luxury sedan segment. Except for European-style sport sedan handling, it offers everything it’s competitors do plus perhaps the most comfortable ride of all of them.
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