Choosing a flagship for its affordability may seem like tuxedo shopping at Walmart, but the fact that the 2018 Genesis G90 offers nearly all of the luxury features and technology found in the products of established flagship makers at their used car prices makes the Genesis a respectable choice. Its styling is an acquired taste, and its interior is filled with more buttons than a shirt factory, but unless either fact is a deal breaker, buyers looking for value over brand cachet would do well to consider this Korean upstart.
What's New for 2018
LED headlights that turn around bends are now standard on base G90's, the 5.0 Ultimate model gains a standard rear seat entertainment system with dual seatback-mounted 10.3-inch monitors, and both trims now include standard glovebox-mounted CD/DVD players.
Choosing Your Genesis G90
Put simply, G90s come with either a six- or eight-cylinder engine and in rear- or all-wheel drive forms. Apart from that, the only decisions a buyer need make are which of its seven exterior paints they’d like matched to one of its pair of interior color schemes.
The base model – the $69,325 (including $975 destination) 3.3T Premium – is named for its 3.3-liter twin-turbocharged V6 with 365 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque. For $3,500 more one can move up to the $72,825 5.0 Ultimate RWD and its 5.0-liter V8 with 420 hp and 383 lb-ft. All-wheel-drive is a $2,500 option with either engine. EPA ratings on the two very different engines are remarkably similar, at 17 mpg city, 24 highway, and 20 combined for the V6 (regardless of drivetrain), with the V8 rated at 16/24/19 (RWD) and 15/23/18 (AWD).
All G90s feature the same eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, and Intelligent Drive Mode, which allows drivers to choose transmission, throttle, steering, and suspension control setting combinations, either preset (Eco and Sport), adaptive (Smart), or custom (Individual).
There are two available trims:
CarsDirect Tip
As strange as it sounds, the row in which one plans to sit – or seat others – best dictates which G90 model is the best fit. Though it offers slightly better performance, the real reason to choose the 5.0 Ultimate is its enhanced rear seat comfort, convenience, and entertainment equipment. If you won't be riding in the back (or don't much care for those who are), save the $3,500 with the 3.3T and enjoy its additional fuel economy.
The 2018 Genesis G90, the full-size luxury sedan flagship of Hyundai's relatively new premium brand, provides a luxurious interior and a comfortable ride. Compared with more established upscale brands, the G90 has an old-school luxury feel with less emphasis on performance, but only does so in order to help separate the harsh realities of the road from the occupants inside. This is a noble goal, and the G90 does it well, swallowing up the miles on open roads without the slightest disturbance. But it's also held back by an inconspicuous design, a lack of brand cachet, and a mundane driving character.
Best Value
Although offered with a V8 in the top trim, if you're looking for the best value, you'll want to stick with the base G90 3.3T Premium. The V8 is powerful, but the G90 isn't a performance sedan and the extra power doesn't provide much net benefit. Additionally, the upgrades that accompany the 5.0 Ultimate trim really only benefit the back seat passengers, so unless you're planning on being chauffeured, you really won't miss much at all.
Genesis goes the opposite direction of brands like Mercedes-Benz and BMW by loading the G90 up with a plethora of luxury features while offering no options, making us wonder if everyone else is just scamming people into spending more money. The only real option is all-wheel drive, but we'd stick with the rear-wheel-drive configuration and save $2,500. All-wheel drive may give a bit more traction in slippery conditions, but a good set of tires does the same.
Model: 2018 Genesis G90 3.3T Premium
Engine:3.3-liter twin-turbocharged V6
Output: 365 hp / 376 lb-ft
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic
Drivetrain:Rear-wheel drive
MPG: 17 City / 24 Hwy
Options: None
Base Price: $69,345 (including a $995 destination charge)
Best Value Price:: $69,345
Performance
The G90 is offered with the choice of two engines: a 3.3-liter twin-turbocharged V6 with 365 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque, and a 5.0-liter V8 generating 420 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. Both are good, but the V6 is the better choice. Although the V8 comes with a nice engine note, the G90 isn't equipped to make use of that power, and the V8's extra weight gives it an acceleration sensation that's largely the same as that of the V6.
An updated interpretation of the all-American luxo-barge, the best part of the G90's performance is the ride. Contemporary luxury sedans attempt to be both sporty and comfortable, largely because of market demands. Unfortunately, these two concepts are often at odds with each other, so in chasing performance, many luxury sedans have lost the ability to cosset and insulate occupants from the real world. This isn't the case with the G90, where a luxurious and comfortable ride has been prioritized. The adaptive suspension offers three driving modes, Comfort, Comfort Plus, and Sport, but don't be fooled, as the Sport setting is still pillowy soft compared to sport sedans from Germany and Detroit.
The supple, high-tech suspension, smooth V6, and slick-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission combine to produce a refined highway cruiser with excellent merging and passing response, capable of eating up mile after highway mile.
At the same time, the overly light steering makes the G90 feel a bit out of its element on curvy roads, where body lean is all too evident, while the V8 offers only a hint of additional response.
Style
The Genesis G90 is a study in design understatement, preferring to fly under the radar behind a badge that compels onlookers to ask, "What is that?" By its size alone, the G90 manages to command respect, although it hides a nearly two-and-a-half ton girth relatively well beginning with an understated front fascia that displays the largest rendition yet of Hyundai's "cascading grille" design.
A deeply scalloped upper character line starts at the trailing upper edge of the grille, tracing a line just below the beltline, and ends just ahead of the taillights. The rear fascia is equally restrained and features two chrome strips – one just above the license plate surround, and a lower one that wraps around the lower portion of the bumper just above twin chrome-framed trapezoidal exhaust outlets.
The sedate exterior is wrapped around a spacious (113.2 cubic feet), serene interior that's elegant, timeless, and worthy of luxury car status, with a plethora of features that are packed into it at no extra cost. Even base models have nearly everything, including a full suite of driver assistance features, an adaptive suspension, adaptive automatic LED headlights, and a surround-view camera. Additionally, all models receive superlatively comfortable Nappa leather seats that are heated, ventilated, and adjustable 22 ways for the driver and 16 ways for the front passenger. And while the rear bench has been optimized for outboard passengers, there's plenty of room back there for three adults.
A suede headliner, power door closures, acoustic laminated windows, and three-zone automatic climate control are also standard, and nearly the entire litany of standard features found on the G90 would be considered optional in any other luxury sedan, dramatically inflating the price of those vehicles.
But perfection is eluded as the interior is offered in only black or beige, the rear seat doesn't fold (a feature that's standard even on the lowly Hyundai Accent and limits the G90's versatility), while – unlike other standard-bearing luxury sedans – no first-class-like rear seat arrangement with individual reclining buckets and a wide center console is offered.
The Best and Worst Things
The best thing about the G90 is the staggering number of standard features they've crammed into it while still keeping the price reasonably low. Most competitors would charge you for the seat belts if they could, but the G90 has no options or packages, and only two trim levels. It's an incredible value for a luxury car.
The biggest downside to the G90 is the amount of body roll experienced during cornering and on highway entrance ramps. While we praise the G90's commitment to comfort, minimizing body roll without compromising ride quality has been largely figured out by now. Additionally, the light steering can make the car feel floaty without much sensation of control, which can be a bit unnerving on curvy roads.
Right For? Wrong For?
The Genesis G90 is the perfect full-size luxury car for someone who wants all the amenities of a luxury car, but could care less about standing out or the overall driving experience. Without advertising wealth, it manages to provide everything that makes luxury car ownership great.
At the same time, the G90 isn't for those who enjoy driving. It's just not fun to drive in any trim, as comfort has been given the priority. If you want a large sedan that meets that need, you'll want to look in the direction of the Germans and the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7-Series, or Porsche Panamera – but be prepared to spend more money.
The Bottom Line
The 2018 Genesis G90 is bringing the joy of old-school luxury back and is a smart choice for those who just want a luxurious experience, but it does so by sacrificing performance. It has a great set of standard features, straightforward pricing, and the ability to isolate occupants from the harsh realities of the road. It's every bit as luxurious as competitors, but it does so with a much more modest price tag.
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Specs & Features
Highlights
Overall Crash Safety Rating
This Safety Rating comes from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) which evaluates how this vehicle performs in crash tests. NHTSA conducts frontal, side and rollover tests because these types account for the majority of crashes on America's roadways. This Overall Crash Safety Rating combines scores for these three crash tests.
Not Available
Engine - Cylinders/Horsepower/Torque
This Safety Rating comes from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) which evaluates how this vehicle performs in crash tests. NHTSA conducts frontal, side and rollover tests because these types account for the majority of crashes on America's roadways. This Overall Crash Safety Rating combines scores for these three crash tests.
3.3L V-6 / 365 HP / 376 ft.lbs.
Transmission
This Safety Rating comes from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) which evaluates how this vehicle performs in crash tests. NHTSA conducts frontal, side and rollover tests because these types account for the majority of crashes on America's roadways. This Overall Crash Safety Rating combines scores for these three crash tests.
8-spd SHIFTRONIC w/OD
Drive Type
This Safety Rating comes from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) which evaluates how this vehicle performs in crash tests. NHTSA conducts frontal, side and rollover tests because these types account for the majority of crashes on America's roadways. This Overall Crash Safety Rating combines scores for these three crash tests.
Rear-wheel
Fuel Economy - City/Highway/Combined
This Safety Rating comes from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) which evaluates how this vehicle performs in crash tests. NHTSA conducts frontal, side and rollover tests because these types account for the majority of crashes on America's roadways. This Overall Crash Safety Rating combines scores for these three crash tests.
17 / 24 / 20 Mpg
Passenger Capacity
This Safety Rating comes from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) which evaluates how this vehicle performs in crash tests. NHTSA conducts frontal, side and rollover tests because these types account for the majority of crashes on America's roadways. This Overall Crash Safety Rating combines scores for these three crash tests.
5
Bumper to Bumper Warranty
This Safety Rating comes from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) which evaluates how this vehicle performs in crash tests. NHTSA conducts frontal, side and rollover tests because these types account for the majority of crashes on America's roadways. This Overall Crash Safety Rating combines scores for these three crash tests.
60 Months / 60,000 Miles
Mechanical Specs
Engine - Cylinders/Horsepower/Torque
3.3L V-6 / 365 HP / 376 ft.lbs.
Drive Type
Rear-wheel
Fuel Economy - City/Hwy/Combined
17 / 24 / 20 Mpg
Brakes
4-wheel Disc
Front Suspension
Multi-link
Rear Suspension
Independent Multi-link
Spare Tire And Wheel
Fuel Tank
21.9 Gal.
Recommended Fuel Type
Premium Unleaded
Average Cost To Fill Tank
$84
Dimensions & Capabilities
Maximum Cargo Volume
15.7 Cu.ft.
Passenger Volume
113 Cu.ft.
Exterior Length
204.9 "
Exterior Width
75.4 "
Exterior Height
58.9 "
Front Headroom
41.1 "
Rear Headroom
38.0 "
Front Legroom
46.3 "
Rear Legroom
37.8 "
Front Shoulder Room
59.1 "
Rear Shoulder Room
57.9 "
Front Hip Room
Rear Hip Room
Curb Weight
4,630 Lbs.
Wheel Base
124 "
Turning Radius
19.6 '
Exterior Features
Door Count
4 Doors
Wheels
19.0 " Silver Aluminum
Paint
Clearcoat Monotone
Exterior Mirrors
Dual Power Remote W/tilt Down Heated
Bumpers
Body-colored
Grille Moldings
Chrome
Rear Spoiler
Exhaust
Dual Stainless Steel With Chrome Tailpipe Finish
Interior Features
Seating
Passenger Capacity
5
Seat Trim
Nappa Leather
Front Seat Type
Bucket
Heated Front Seats
Driver And Front Passenger Heated-cushion, Heated-seatback
Front Driver Seat Direction Controls
(12-way Power)
Front Passenger Seat Direction Controls
(8-way Power)
Front Armrests
(12-way Power)
Rear Armrests
Center With Pass-thru
Rear Seats
Split-bench
Radio & Infotainment
Radio
Siriusxm Am/fm/hd/satellite, Seek-scan
Speakers
17 Performance
Radio Steering Wheel Controls
Apple Car Play
Android Auto
Bluetooth w/ Hands-Free Connectivity
Convenience Features
Steering Wheel Type
Power Telescopic Tilt
Climate Control
Automatic Air Conditioning
Cruise Control
With Steering Wheel Controls
Sun Roof
Express Open/close
Rearview Mirror
Auto-dimming Day-night
One Touch Open Window
Front And Rear
Tinted Windows
Light
Vanity Mirrors
Dual Illuminated
Remote Keyless Entry
Keyfob (all Doors)
Power Outlets
5
Safety Features
Overall Crash Safety Rating
Not Yet Available
Overall Front Crash Safety Rating
Not Yet Available
Overall Side Crash Safety Rating
Not Yet Available
Rollover Crash Safety Rating
Not Yet Available
Front Impact Airbags
Driver And Passenger
Driver Side Impact Airbags
Seat Mounted
Knee Airbag
Driver
Passenger Side Impact Airbag
Seat Mounted
Rear Side Airbag
Rear Side-impact Airbag
Seatbelt Pretensioners
Front And Rear
Anti-Lock Brakes
4-wheel Anti-lock Brakes (abs)
Forward Collision Warning
Forward Collision Mitigation
Blind Spot Sensor
Lane Change Assist Blind Spot
Lane Departure Warning
Lane Keep Assist Lane Departure
Autonomous Cruise Control
Pedestrian Detection
Front Pedestrian Detection Prevention
Driver Attention Alert
Driver Attention
Daytime Running Lights
Auto High Beams
High Beam Assist (hba) Auto High-beam
Adaptive Headlights
Dynamic Bending Light Directionally Adaptive
Parking Sensors
Front And Rear
Security Systems
Security System
Panic Alarm
Ignition Disable
Immobilizer
Warranty
Bumper To Bumper Months Miles
60 Months / 60,000 Miles
Major Components Months
120 Months / 100,000 Miles
Included Maintenance Months
36 Months / 36,000 Miles
Roadside Assistance Months
60 Months / Unlimited Miles
Corrosion Perforation
84 Months / Unlimited Miles
Accessories Months
60 Months / 60,000 Miles
Used 2018 Genesis G90 for Sale
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