Design review: Genesis G80
2022-03-01T15:36:00
Michael Nash falls in love with the shape of the Genesis G80 but finds the user experience quite frustrating
Without spending time in North America or South Korea, you would be forgiven for not yet knowing the Genesis car brand – the luxury arm of Hyundai. The company started its foray into Europe in May 2021 with two models – the G80 sedan and the GV80 SUV. The goal was to bring Korean luxury and a unique driving experience to a new market. Has the newcomer succeeded, and will it become a staple marque in Europe’s car world? We got behind the wheel of the G80 to find out.
The Genesis G80 is somewhat of a shapeshifter. At a first glance, the lengthy sedan is unassuming and subtle, practically going unnoticed when in a busy street full of cars. Its shape and stance are sharp without being dominating, but it doesn’t take long to realise there is something a little special going on here. Proportionally, Genesis have got it spot on with the G80. The long bonnet with the A-pillars pushed back and the overhang at the rear – it’s all very pleasing, and it means that the model looks sumptuous from every angle despite the fact it doesn’t scream “look at me!”