Test Car Specifications
Model: 2023 Genesis Electrified G80
Price: From £69,905
Engine: two 136kW electric motors
Transmission: single-speed automatic, all-wheel drive
Battery: 87.2kWh lithium-ion
Power: 370hp
Torque: 700Nm
Emissions: 0g/km
Range: 323 miles
0-62mph: 4.9 seconds
Top speed: 139mph
Boot space: 354 litres
Styling
Telling the difference between a standard G80 and the electric version isn't particularly easy, but they are there if you look closely. Most obvious is the grille, which has the same diamond design, but it's really just a plastic panel that neatly hides the electric charging port in the pattern. The lack of any exhausts is a giveaway, too. But the Electrified G80 is a good-looking thing, and there's something sleek, stylish and unapologetically premium about the smart design. It certainly deserves its place alongside the E-Class and 5 Series.
Interior
One of the highlights of any Genesis is the interior, and the G80 is no different. Mixing impressive build quality with some sumptuous materials and some can't-believe-it's-not-Bentley design features, there are few saloons that feel anything like this upmarket. Even the minimalist efforts of Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Audi can't compete.
That's partly because of the way Genesis has chosen to integrate the technology in the G80's cabin. The big screen is controlled through a BMW-style rotary control because you'll never reach the other side of it otherwise, and there's a cool hybrid climate control panel that mixes touch-sensitive controls with more conventional switchgear. It's all well thought through and even better executed.
Practicality
Though the Electrified G80 is certainly big, it isn't necessarily the most spacious saloon on the market. As with conventionally powered versions, rear legroom is exemplary but headroom is limited by the swooping roofline. It might look the business, but it isn't great for tall passengers. The boot, meanwhile, is noticeably smaller than in the combustion-powered models, at just 354 litres. That's due to the powertrain, but the result is a boot that's barely bigger than that of a VW Polo.
Performance
The Electrified G80 comes with a two-motor electric powertrain as standard, giving it all-wheel drive and a substantial 370hp. Although the car is big and heavy, that's enough to get from 0-62mph in less than five seconds, and on to a top speed of 139mph. That isn't huge by German saloon standards, but it isn't bad for an electric car.
More importantly, though, the Electrified G80 houses an 87.2kWh battery pack that's big enough to offer a range of 323 miles on the official efficiency test. Naturally, you'll struggle to achieve that on the motorway, but even a fast-but-legal cruise speed will give you a range that's well in excess of 200 miles. Helpfully, the accurate trip computer means you'll have a pretty good idea of where you'll need to charge.
Ride & Handling
Genesis has certainly tuned the Electrified G80 for comfort, rather than handling, so it's no match for a BMW 5 Series in terms of handling. The steering is a bit numb, the response isn't especially sharp and the body control is acceptable but not awesome.
Happily, though, it's a brilliant motorway cruiser, with supple suspension and a cushioned ride that soaks up most of the bumps with ease. At lower speeds, the ride suffers very slightly due to the car's weight, but even then it's hardly harsh. Few alternatives will ride with such composure, and few will be as quiet, too. Obviously, the motor noise is minimal, but Genesis has done a solid job with the soundproofing to make sure this thing is as relaxing and as luxurious as possible.
Value
Genesis Electrified G80 prices start at just under £70,000, which makes it noticeably cheaper than the Mercedes-Benz EQE. And you get a fair bit of kit for your money. As standard, 19-inch alloys are thrown in, along with leather upholstery, aluminium dashboard trim and a big central screen. You get Genesis' five-year service plan and warranty, too, plus a Lexicon audio system, two-zone climate control and a rear-view camera. Naturally, there's also bags of safety kit, including forward collision avoidance and lane-keeping assistance.
Verdict
The G80 was a smart saloon anyway, but the electric version is even more attractive. Smooth, quiet, comfortable and with plenty of range, it's a brilliant luxury four-door. Perhaps it isn't perfect, but it's more likeable than some of its German rivals, and when you're spending £70,000 on a car, that carries quite a bit of weight.
