Genesis has spent the last decade building a reputation for refined luxury, and the 2025 G80 continues to uphold that tradition.
The G80 has long been an underrated contender in the Asian luxury sedan segment, offering sleek styling, a plush interior, and a choice of compelling powertrains. For 2025, Genesis has given the G80 a mild refresh, refining both aesthetics and technology, making it an even stronger alternative to the German competition.
Performance: Smooth Power, Comfortable Ride
Under the hood for 2025, the G80 offers three powertrain options: a 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder with 300 horsepower; a 3.5L turbocharged V6 producing 375 horsepower; and the fully electric with dual motors pushing out 365 horsepower. I had the joy of driving the V6 Twin Turbo, which delivered 39 lb-ft of torque, making acceleration brisk and highway cruising effortless. It is the near-perfect balance of power and refinement.
The eight-speed automatic transmission is smooth. All-wheel drive comes standard across the lineup, ensuring stability in all weather conditions. The V6 sedan offers the following drive modes: Comfort for everyday driving with a softer suspension tuning for a comfier handling. Smart/Snow adjusts transmission and the all-wheel drive system to optimize traction on those slippery days; Eco when you want to maximize fuel economy; Custom allows you to mix and match settings for the engine, transmission, steering, suspension and even AWD, and you can program it if you want a comfortable suspension but sharper throttle; Sport mode allows for more dynamic driving when you want a more engaging experience. It tightens steering, stiffens the suspension for improved handling and sharpens the throttle response for quicker acceleration. The transmission holds gears longer for more power delivery and this mode enhances engine sound for a sportier feel. One of the G80’s biggest strengths remains its ride quality. I realize it’s the Sport trim’s name, however this is not a razor-sharp sports sedan but rather a grand tourer built for comfort. It excels at absorbing road imperfections, making it a fantastic choice for those frequently navigating rough urban streets or long highway journeys.
A great feature is the Remote Smart Parking Assist II. Picture this, you step out, push a button and watch your G80 expertly park itself. Yes, it’s just as cool (and useful) as it sounds. Wonderful for squeezing into tight spots.
Exterior: Sculpted Sophistication
Looks-wise, the G80 has always been a handsome sedan, and the 2025 model refines its presence with subtle yet impactful updates. It sports a larger front grill, is bold but more restrained than some competitors, and adds presence. The newly-designed dimpled wheels inject a touch of sportiness into the car. For those of us not ready to part with sedans, the G80 remains a shining example of how good a four-door can look.
From the side, the G80 V6 shows off its athleticism with 20-inch Sport Alloy Wheels exclusive to the Sport Prestige AWD trims. Wrapped in all-season rubber, they’re as ready for a red carpet as they are for a rain-soaked highway. The silhouette is pure sophistication, but the panoramic roof truly elevates the experience – stretching across the top like a glass canopy. It floods the cabin with natural light and opens up the sky with the touch of a button.
If you hate the slamming of car doors, this sedan comes with self-closing doors. You just have to pull it in close and the car does the rest. It is the little things that makes such a difference.
Design & Interior: Timeless Elegance with Modern Touches
Inside, Genesis has elevated the experience with a more luxurious use of materials and a tech-forward approach. The most noticeable update is the massive 27-inch OLED display that seamlessly integrates the infotainment system and digital gauge cluster. It adds a high-tech, contemporary feel to the cabin, contrasting beautifully with the classic luxury elements such as soft leather and finely crafted trim. I found the rotary controller for the infotainment system easy to use and handy. Overall, the infotainment system was highly intuitive. The 18 speakers used in the Bang & Olufsen® Sound System produced a clean sound that should satisfy most ears.
The fit and finish of the interior is fantastic. Let’s take a moment to sit down and discuss the seats be because they deserve their moment. This sedan came equipped with a 16-way Power Driver Seat with Power Side Bolster and Cushion Extension. It was highly customizable, heated and cooled and made with gorgeous napa leather that felt as good as it looked. And the front seat passenger wasn’t overlooked, with almost all the features of the driver’s seat. The rear seats are heated but not ventilated. Overall, the seating is quite comfortable for all, but I had one problem with the rear seats. They do not fold down. For fully transparency purposes, I own an older model. I will admit that the trunk is spacious. However, sometimes I wish I could fold down a seat.
Efficiency & Value: Competitive but Not Groundbreaking
Fuel economy is an area where the G80 shows its age. With ratings of 13.1 L/100 km for the V6, it lags behind some competitors, particularly those offering hybrid options. This is where rivals like the BMW 550e xDrive (with its 55 km of electric-only range) gain an edge. That being said, there is a plug-in version for those who want that.
Competition: Can It Take on the Germans?
As for pricing, the G80 is no longer the budget-friendly alternative it once was. A well-equipped 3.5T Sport Plus model starts at around $89,000, putting it in direct competition with the likes of the BMW 5 Series, Audi A7 and even the Mercedes-Benz S-Class in some configurations. While it may not significantly undercut the Germans on price anymore, it does offer a more opulent interior, smoother ride and arguably more distinctive styling. It may not carry the same badge prestige as its German rivals, but it delivers a unique blend of luxury and performance, making it a compelling option.
My Verdict: A Worthy Contender with an Identity of Its Own
The 2025 Genesis G80 V6 Turbo doesn’t chase performance numbers or flashy gimmicks. Instead, it remains a quietly confident luxury sedan that delivers comfort, design and refinement where it matters most. It stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the best in the segment. For those who value a premium experience without needing a European badge, the G80 is an outstanding choice.
Kay Layne is a dynamic automotive journalist with a passion for anything with a motor and wheels. Known for her sharp insights and compelling storytelling, she covers everything from industry news and vehicle reviews to the intersection of technology, policy and design. With a background in broadcast journalism, Kay wishes to bring a fresh voice to the world of automotive media. Her website is itskaylayne.com and her email address is [email protected].
