How Does The 2021 Genesis G80 Compare To Its Predecessor?

Ever since Genesis unveiled the G80 nameplate back in 2016 (though technically, the history of the series started with the first generation Hyundai Genesis in 2008 and its successor in 2013) the once regular premium mid-size sedan went on to challenge the likes of BMW 5-Series, Mercedes E-Class, Audi A6 and the rest of the segment.

While the G80 never put up much of a fight against the German establishment in terms of sales or even Internet popularity, it did do surprisingly well against rivals such as the Cadillac CTS, Volvo S90, Lexus GS or the Jaguar XF.

In 2019 alone, Genesis sold 7,094 G80 units in the U.S. – better than Cadillac’s 6,965 CTS units, or Lexus 3,378 GS models. With that in mind, there’s no reason why the all-new 2021 G80 shouldn’t thrive even if few people expect it to actually challenge the sales superiority of the German big three (for example, BMW sold nearly 39,000 5-Series sedans in the States last year).

But we’re here to talk about all the ways in which the 2021 G80 might be better (or not) than its predecessor, and we’re going to start off with the way they look, because Genesis opted to completely revamp the nameplate as far as its design language.

The all-new G80 now sports an “Athletic Elegance”, according to the carmaker. Everything is different, from the front end with its large crest grille and quad headlights, to the long hood or the parabolic shoulder line that traverses the entire length of the car.

This is probably where you start asking yourself if the G80 is now a Fastback, since it definitely looks like one. Well, no, it’s still a four-door sedan, technically – which is a shame since a rear hatch design would have made it more practical as far as loading up the boot is concerned.

The old G80 on the other hand, there’s not much we feel can be argued in its favor as being in any way better-looking than its replacement. Maybe it looks a bit more sporty in a traditional sense, from certain angles, but even that’s kind of a stretch, mostly because its design is somewhat outdated compared to anything with a German, Swedish or British badge.

That being said, we’re not entirely sure that this new design language is to everyone’s liking. It’s a little non-conventional, but whether or not that will negatively impact sales, remains to be seen.

In terms of size, the new G80 is 0.2 inches (5 mm) longer, 1.4 inches (36 mm) wider and 0.6 inches (15 mm) lower than its predecessor. The wheelbase meanwhile is the same, measuring 118.5 inches (3,010 mm).

Checkmate inside

Honestly, is it even worth having a discussion over this? Genesis went all out with the interior of the 2021 G80, with everything being new inside. The materials are also better, the on-board tech is better and even the so-called “Ergo Motion” seats are more comfortable thanks to air cells that adjust depending on driving mode.

The display tech is split between two screens. Ahead of the driver is a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster with glasses-free 3D technology, while to the right is a 14.5-inch infotainment system that boasts over-the-air updates, plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Other notable features include the head-up display, ambient lighting, rotary shifter, plus loads of safety tech like the new adaptive cruise control system with machine learning technology – it allegedly learns how you like to drive and can then replicate your style. As for space, there’s more head and legroom inside, as well as improved visibility.

A renewed engine range, but sadly, no V8

If you went into a Genesis dealership (back when you could still go out safely) and looked at a G80 catalogue, you would have undoubtedly noticed the available range-topping 420 HP 5.0-liter V8 engine, on top of the base 311 HP 3.8-liter V6 and the newer twin-turbo 3.3-liter V6 with 365 HP (370 PS).

All those lumps are now gone, replaced by a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 300 HP (304 PS) and 311 lb-ft (421 Nm), and a turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 with 375 HP (380 PS) and 391 lb-ft (530 Nm) of torque. What’s even more interesting is that if you live outside of the US, you’ll also be able to get your 2021 Genesis G80 with a 2.2-liter four-cylinder diesel unit, good for 207 HP (210 PS) and 325 lb-ft (441 Nm).

Both rear and all-wheel drive configurations will be available, but as far as acceleration or fuel consumption figures go, that info has yet to be released. However, since the new G80 weighs 243 lbs (110 kg) less than its predecessor, we reckon that all three power units should provide sufficient pulling power for everyday usage.

The 2020 Genesis G80 is currently priced from $42,550 in 3.8 V6 spec, while the all-new 2021 model will likely be more expensive, it will kick off from under $50,000 too, although we’ll have to wait a little longer until the car is officially priced.