Genesis Motors is still relatively new, only just entering into its 4th year since being spun off from Hyundai as its own imprint. It competes against the likes of Lexus, so expect luxury features at a lower price point than European rivals.
When contemplating your perfect vehicle, Genesis does things a little differently. They start with a trio of what they call "trim models." In actuality, these are engine and powertrain configurations. Then, the buyer adds "Packages" to give their Genesis a distinct "flavor." These packages function similarly to trim levels as they are found on most other manufacturers. Finally, the third step is to choose available accessories.
Let's break everything down for the solidly performing 2019 Genesis G80 mid-size luxury sedan. We've split things up by engine size, and detail the available choices applicable to each one.
Genesis G80 3.8
The base engine for the 2019 Genesis G80 is a 3.8-liter GDI D-CVVT V6. It's capable of 311-hp and 293 lb-ft of torque. Buyers who opt for rear-wheel-drive will see pricing start at $42,050. An all-wheel-drive option begins at $44,550. This engine size comes in an array of 9 exterior colors. Most are an array of whites, grays, and blacks, though there is a deep blue color. Red and Polar Ice (a gray-blue-green shade) are only available if opting for the Sport Package. Following the engine and drivetrain options, buyers can decide between three distinct packages: the Standard offering, a Sport package, and the Ultimate package.
Standard Package
The Standard Package is no additional cost on top of the base price—hence the naming convention "standard." There are no interior customization choices here. The only option is a black leather interior design. Even so, there is a long list of features that come standard.
On the safety side, there is forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, and a driver attention warning. Blind-spot collision warning with rear cross-traffic collision warning and smart cruise control with stop and go will also help in traffic.
Convenience features include high beam assist and paddle shifters on the steering wheel. The leather seats are even heated in the front.
Sport Package
The Sport package will add an extra $5,700 onto the cost of your Genesis G80 3.8. Choosing this package gives you three color options for interior leather: black, gray, and beige. Besides this, the sport package also adds some performance-focused cosmetic enhancements. These include sport front and rear bumpers, rocker molding, dark chrome grille and window trim, and sport-styled steering wheel and pedals. The tires are also an inch larger (19-inches) than those on the standard package. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility also come with this package.
In our opinion, however, buyers who are interested in the Sport package should probably opt for the Genesis G80 3.3T Sport model. The sporty cosmetic features will feel more at home paired with that model's performance-tuned engine.
Ultimate Package
The Ultimate package is an additional $9,950 on top of the base price. This luxury-focused package has 4 color interior options: black, gray, ivory, and beige. The leather seating surfaces are also upgraded to Nappa leather. Matte-finish wood and aluminum trim is can be found around the cabin. The audio system is also upgraded to a Lexicon 17-speaker system with Quantum Logic Surround and Clari-Fi Music Restoration. There's even a CD/DVD player!
Genesis G80 3.3T Sport
The 2019 Genesis G80 3.3T Sport starts at $55,250 for the rear-wheel-drive powertrain and $57,750 for the all-wheel-drive version. The main draw of this model is the performance-focused engine. It's a 3.3L GDI twin-turbo V6 with 365 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque. It does lower the fuel economy just a single mpg rating from the base option (17 city/25 highway, compared to 18/26).
Being the sport-specific model, there is only a single available package option. The Sport package comes standard at no additional cost. It features the same racing-inspired cosmetic enhancements of the Sport package on the G80 3.8: 19-inch tires, sport-styled steering wheel and pedals, etc. However, the G80 3.3T Sport has some additional unique features.
Firstly, this model offers the Havana Red exterior color but not the Adriatic (dark) Blue color. Additionally, there are two interior color options: black leather and gray leather. Each has black piping detail. Speaking of the interior the G80 3.3T Sport features a carbon fiber interior trim and Nappa leather seating. That's an upgrade from the G80 3.8. The sporty seats also have copper accent stitching. The headliner is also upgraded to a black microfiber suede material. Lastly, the exterior features quad exhaust tips.
Genesis G80 5.0
The final engine option is the 2019 Genesis G80 5.0. This model features a 5.0L GDI DOHC D-CVVT Tau V8 engine. When pressing the pedal to the floor, drivers will really feel the 420 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. Being a V8 engine, the fuel economy does drop further to 16 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.
Since the G80 5.0 is the top-of-the-line option, the only available package for it is the Ultimate package. It's included as a standard offering. Like on the G80 3.8, the Ultimate package includes the upgraded Lexicon 14-speaker audio system, plus CD/DVD player. The matte wood finish and aluminum trim also make a reappearance. To set the G80 5.0 apart, however, it features a 9.2-inch HD navigation system with DIS multimedia controller. Other helpful driver comforts include a full-color heads-up display and a surround-view monitor to help with parking and maneuvering.
The RWD version starts at $57,000 even while the AWD model begins at $59,500. While the V8 engine is nice, we think most buyers will be completely satisfied opting for the G80 3.8 and choosing the Ultimate Package. You will find the majority of the convenience features from the G80 5.0 for about $5,000 less.
(Featured image via Facebook)
