Genesis has started testing the next G80 on public roads, with a heavily disguised prototype being spotted by our skilled spies.

With the current G80 being essentially a rebadged Hyundai Genesis, the Korean premium brand had to completely change the mid-sized executive sedan, making it not only more modern but more appealing to the eye.

Despite the covers, the new generation of the Genesis G80 does look like its gunning for a sportier design, directly inspired by the smaller G70. The end result is expected to be a sleek, wide-hipped four-door sedan that will try to keep you away from a German dealership.

The overhaul will continue inside, with Genesis expected to go with an impressive range of safety and comfort features, along with high-quality of materials and fit-and-finish. As the company’s new luxury executive sedan, the 2020 G80 will offer everything from a configurable digital instrument cluster and a last-gen connected infotainment system to the latest semi-autonomous systems.

The current Genesis G80 is powered by a V6 in both naturally aspirated and twin-turbo guises, as well as a 5.0-liter V8. It’s no secret that Genesis has been working on a new generation of electrified powertrains, so it wouldn’t be a surprise if the V8 bites the dust and gets replaced by a plug-in hybrid powertrain.

Genesis has been developing a mid-sized SUV as well, set to go against models like the BMW X5 and Mercedes GLE, among others. The Korean brand also plans to launch its first all-electric vehicle in 2021, which is said to have a driving range of at least 310 miles (500km).

As for the new Genesis G80, expect the new Korean executive sedan to launch in different regions as of late 2019.

Image Credits: S. Baldauf/SB-Medien for CarScoops