The Genesis G80, a sedan that debuted amidst global uncertainty, has not only persevered but thrived. Genesis has consistently elevated this model, first with a stunning all-electric variant and now with a comprehensive makeover for the entire G80 lineup. The updated 2025 Genesis G80 is poised to make a significant impact in the luxury sedan market.
Entering the competitive luxury sedan arena is no easy feat, especially when facing established brands with decades of history and loyal customer bases. However, Hyundai, with its Genesis brand, has consistently embraced challenges and made remarkable strides. The revised 2025 G80 midsize sedan represents the next ambitious step in Genesis’ journey to the top of the luxury segment.
Exterior styling, always crucial for emerging brands, sees subtle yet effective refinements in the 2025 Genesis G80, staying true to the brand’s “Athletic Elegance” design philosophy. Key updates include a redesigned grille, subtly reshaped front and rear bumpers, and a fresh selection of wheel designs ranging from 18 to 20 inches. An updated color palette further enhances personalization options. The G80’s signature two-line LED headlamps are enhanced with Micro Lens Array technology, improving light output while minimizing glare for other drivers.
The interior of the 2025 G80 receives a more significant transformation, headlined by a completely redesigned dashboard and center console. The traditional hooded gauge cluster and separate infotainment screen are replaced by a single, expansive 27-inch LG panoramic display. This seamless screen integrates the instrument panel and infotainment system into a sleek, driver-focused interface that stretches across the dashboard. The center stack features a larger and more user-friendly control panel. The redesigned console offers improved storage and reshaped cupholders, although with slightly reduced armrest surface area. The wide display retains touchscreen functionality and is complemented by a console-mounted controller for those who prefer tactile inputs or want to avoid fingerprints on the screen. While both input methods are effective, the rotary controller’s proximity to the dial-like shifter may require a period of familiarization.
Material quality within the 2025 Genesis G80 is exceptional, rivaling, if not surpassing, many of its European luxury competitors. Audiophiles will appreciate the optional 1,400-watt, 18-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium sound system. The top-tier Sport Prestige trim elevates the luxury experience further with Nappa leather seating, carbon fiber accents, microsuede headliner and pillar coverings, heated armrests, a head-up display, and enhanced active safety technology. The front seats provide excellent comfort and support without being overly plush, and the rear seats offer ample space and comfort for adult passengers.
More Bentley than Benz; cruising effortlessly with European-style composure, masking the true velocity.
Under the hood, the 2025 G80 retains the powertrain options from the previous model year. The standard engine is a 300-horsepower 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. The upgraded engine, and the one tested, is a potent 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6, producing 375 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with standard all-wheel drive. At the test track, the AWD system provided excellent traction, enabling consistent and launch control-free sprints to 60 mph in just 5.0 seconds. The twin-turbo V6 delivered robust power throughout the rev range, matching its impressive sound. All 2025 G80 models utilize an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. While gear changes were smooth and refined in normal driving, Sport Mode and wide-open throttle applications on the track resulted in noticeably quicker and firmer shifts.
The driving experience of the 2025 Genesis G80 is remarkably refined and composed. As noted during track testing, it evokes a “more Bentley than Benz” feel, exhibiting European-style solidity and isolating the occupants from the sensation of high speed. The tested G80 reached 105 mph in the quarter-mile in 13.4 seconds. Sport Mode, standard on all G80s, sharpens steering, enhances throttle response, adjusts shift points, firms up the suspension, and modifies stability control settings. The Sport Prestige trim further adds rear-wheel steering and an electronic limited-slip differential. Despite these performance enhancements, the G80 maintains a comfortable and composed demeanor in handling courses. While it carries speed through corners effectively, there’s a sense of softness and substantial weight that might leave drivers unsure about pushing the vehicle to its absolute limits. Sport Prestige trim also includes upgraded performance brakes, which proved highly effective, consistently bringing the 4,600-lbs luxury sedan to a halt from 60 mph in just 104 feet with minimal brake fade.
Fuel economy for the six-cylinder 2025 Genesis G80 is rated by the EPA at 16 mpg city, 24 mpg highway, and 19 mpg combined. Real-world testing yielded a respectable 21.3 mpg average on premium fuel. However, the energy impact score remains slightly below average, with an estimated annual consumption of 15.7 barrels of oil and 7.8 tons of CO2 emissions.
Considering the extensive list of luxury features and refinements, the 2025 Genesis G80’s starting price of $58,350 is remarkably competitive, even with a slight increase from the previous year. Stepping up to the 3.5T model represents a more significant investment, with a starting price of $70,850.
Genesis, as a standalone luxury brand, has been making consistent and impressive progress in a fiercely competitive market segment. The 2025 Genesis G80 sedan continues this upward trajectory, presenting itself as a compelling choice for luxury car buyers who prioritize exceptional value and sophisticated features over traditional brand prestige.
Specifications
As Tested
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Engine: 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6
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Transmission: eight-speed automatic
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Horsepower: 375
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Torque: 391 lb-ft
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EPA: 16 City | 24 Highway | 19 Combined
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0-60 mph: 5.0 seconds
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1/4 Mile: 13.4 seconds at 105 mph
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Braking, 60-0 (avg.): 104 feet
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MW Fuel Economy: 21.3 mpg (Premium)
