Development and launch
The RG3 G80 was officially revealed via an online livestream on March 30, 2020, and went on sale in the US during the summer of that year.[20] It is also considered the third-generation model of the original Hyundai Genesis as the first-generation G80 model was initially launched as the second-generation Hyundai Genesis model (DH) and later rebranded as the G80 in 2016 after Genesis Motor became a separate luxury division of Hyundai.[21] There are three engine options – a 2.5-liter gasoline turbo engine, a 3.5-liter gasoline turbo engine, or a 2.2-liter diesel engine.[22]
The brand claims 19 percent of the new platform uses aluminum, saving 243 lb compared to the previous model which used steel. Compared to the outgoing G80, the new model has increased tensile strength by 6 percent due to the usage of high-strength steel in both the A and B pillars, floor crossmembers and rocker panels. The rear subframe is more rigid and has larger bushings for decreased NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness). The torsional rigidity is improved by 3 percent, which deducts 55 lb of its weight.[19]
The vehicle is 5 mm longer, 35 mm wider, 15 mm lower, and retains its 3010 mm wheelbase.
Design
The design language of the Genesis includes quad-headlamps, and a large crest grille. The side profile features a parabolic line, and a fastback-type side view. The rear uses taillamp styling similar to the headlamps. The vehicle features Nappa leather seats. The vehicle also continues using Open Pore wood trim and has slim air conditioning vents. The horizontal layout of the dashboard was inspired by what the brand calls “Beauty of White Space”, which is Genesis’ interior styling design that is made to give the vehicle a "South Korean feel".[23] There is also a glass covered SBW (shift-by-wire) transmission.
Facelift
Hyundai revealed the facelifted G80 on December 14, 2023, for the 2024 model year. Updates include micro-lens array headlight technology, a new grille pattern and front bumper, and redesigned alloy wheels. The rear bumper now features hidden exhaust outlets with "V-shape" chrome trim, reminiscent of the battery electric G80 variant. The interior changes include a 27-inch OLED display, replacing the separate 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 14.5-inch infotainment system, powering the brand's latest CCIC software first seen in the GV60 small SUV and flagship G90 sedan. It also introduces a "crystal-like" shift-by-wire gear shifter, a touch-based climate control panel, revised trim, and a new steering wheel. The G80 Sport adds a unique "double-layered G-Matrix pattern" grille, larger air outlets, different front and rear bumpers, a D-cut steering wheel, and two carbon-look interior garnishes. The updated G80 will be available in ten exterior colors, including the new Brooklyn Brown, and four interior color options.[24]
Electrified G80
The Electrified G80 is the battery electric version of the G80. It debuted at the Shanghai Auto Show on 19 April 2021.[25][26][27] It has been sold in South Korea since 2021.[28][29]
It is available in a dual-motor, all-wheel drive configuration. It uses two electric motors (272 kW combined), one at each axle, and a 87.2 kWh battery. The vehicle can charge from 10% to 80% in 22 minutes, if a 350 kW charger is available.[29] Just like the Ioniq 5
G80 Sport
After the design release on July 5, 2021,[36] the Genesis G80 Sport was released on August 10, 2021.[37] This model introduced redesigned grills, bumpers, headlamps and wheels compared to the non-Sport model. A Cavendish Red paint color is exclusive for the G80 sports model. Two gasoline engines and a diesel are available.[38]
The G80 Sport is also equipped with Rear Wheel Steering (RWS) system, a technology that actively controls the optimal rear-wheel steering angle along with front-wheel steering.
