SPY PICS: 2020 Genesis G80
Korean BMW 5 Series rival completely renewed; will arrive in 2020The Genesis luxury brand has taken its time launching in Australia following several delays along the way.
But with more models in the offing, including an all-important Genesis GV80 large SUV coming in 2020, and now an all-new G80 large sedan seen here undergoing testing at the Nurburgring in Germany, the brand is starting to find its groove.
Based on an all-new platform, the new-generation Genesis G80 adopts the brand's new design language, with slim-line LED headlights and tail-lights seen previously on concept cars.
Together with an angular 'shield' grille and a sleeker, less conventional silhouette thanks to a tapered rear windscreen, the new model will provide the brand with a less generic looking large sedan than the current G80.
It's clear from the spy photos the design is finished, hidden only by the camo wrap.
Given the new Genesis G80 spied here is undergoing dynamic testing at the Nurburgring, it's likely the Koreans are working closely with parent company Hyundai's hot-shop, N, and testing sports suspension, brakes and most likely a circa-270kW twin-turbo V6 as well.
The adoption of an all-new platform – which will also underpin the upcoming GV80 SUV – means the 2020 model G80 will benefit from cutting-edge electronics.
Translation? Blockbuster infotainment systems, massive screens, digital instrument displays and a few tech surprises to boot.
The new platform will also usher in improved semi-autonomous driver aids, including more accurate lane centring for improved assisted highway driving, updated adaptive cruise control and possibly even lane change assist.
New powertrains will also feature, including the adoption of the 3.3-litre turbo V6 currently powering the Genesis G70 mid-size sedan. In that vehicle the bent six pumps 272kW/510Nm to its rear wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The 2020 Genesis G80 will continue the rear-drive theme with all-wheel applications for cold-climate markets such as Europe and North America, but the chances of a V8 engine are low.
Genesis CEO Manfred Fitzgerald has previously stated that the G80 flagship model will be powered by a V6, but that doesn't mean electric augmentation couldn’t bring V8-like power levels to the table.
More likely is a four-cylinder hybrid offering at first, followed by plug-in hybrid tech. It's not clear if the platform supports full EV capability, but given the brand’s penchant for hydrogen fuel-cell technology (FCEV), as seen in vehicles like the Nexo SUV that’s already on the road in Australia, the G80 may join the alternative fuel revolution.
As the G80 evolves to compete against the Lexus GS, Jaguar XF, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, BMW 5 Series and Audi A6, Genesis is plotting a wider assault on the prestige car segment with six new models by 2021, including what is expected to be the GV70, a medium SUV akin to the BMW X3 and Benz GLC.
The Korean luxury car-maker is also working on a flagship sports car, previewed in the Essentia coupe concept.
According to sources close to Genesis, the new G80 is almost ready to rock and will be revealed later in the year, possibly around September.
Deliveries are tipped to begin overseas later this year, and in 2020 for Australia.
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