Introducing 2018 Genesis G80 and G80 Sport

Hyundai’s upscale sister brand Genesis has finally launched in Canada, with the flagship G90 executive sedan serving as the first official offering. The next model that will be introduced to customers later this year is the mid-size G80.

There are some exterior similarities shared between the two vehicles for sure, for example the huge hexagonal grille that dominates the front end, but the G80 features unique details as well.

The Bi-Xenon headlight housings are “fuller” and more angular than the ones found on its bigger brother, and a sporty blacked out strip runs along the width of the front bumper. Around back, the LED taillights wrap-around the rear quarter panels and are like more elegant versions of something you’d find on a Hyundai Sonata.

Simplicity is the key to the G80’s spacious interior, designed with keeping controls intuitive and giving the cabin an open feel. Gadget lovers will appreciate the fact that extra storage pockets and cubbies have been added to ensure space for all of a modern-day driver’s stuff. For bigger items, the trunk has a capacity of 433 litres.

A total of three engines are available, all paired to eight-speed automatic transmissions: a 3.8-litre V6, making 365 horsepower; a 420 hp V8, which is the same as the one found in the G90, and just recently announced, a 365 hp, 3.3-litre turbocharged V6 packaged with a Sport edition of the car. HTRAC all-wheel drive is standard across every grade.

The G80 Sport wears a more aggressive front bumper boasting three large lower air intakes and copper-coloured accents. Other additions include 19-inch alloy wheels, bigger front and rear brakes, carbon fibre interior trim and leather sport seats and steering wheel. Under the skin, there is an adaptive suspension system to keep body roll to a minimum.

Look for the 2018 Genesis G80 to arrive this spring.