Genesis G80 unveiled, on sale in Australia in April

The first product to be sold under the Genesis brand in Australia – the luxury arm of Hyundai – has been revealed as the Genesis G80. But whilst it is a new name, it’s not a new car – it’s actually a facelifted version of the former Hyundai Genesis. The G80 facelift involves some subtle exterior and interior changes, and in some markets, mechanical changes as well.

The Genesis G80 will be launched in Australia in April of 2018, and will be the first product sold under the Genesis brand in the country. The G80 will be swiftly followed by the G70, a BMW 3 Series competitor, shortly after, and a range of SUVs after that. However, the customer experience will be the of the Genesis brand.

The Hyundai Genesis’ changes into G80 form are subtle, with some new styling and interior changes. The headlights are now LED (formerly bi-xenon) and feature a new shape, as well as restyled front and rear bumpers to give the car a sportier look. A new range of alloy wheels have been introduced to freshen the look further.

The interior of the G80 has been revised slightly for a more luxurious feel. In particular, the car’s NVH levels have been paid attention to enhance the already-quiet driving experience. There are new interior trims available to freshen up the cabin, as well as new trim colour choices. The car’s infotainment system is also available with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto to remain up-to date, as well as wireless phone charging.

There’s also a new Genesis G80 Sport trim, which in the United States is equipped with a 3.3-litre twin turbocharged V6 petrol engine and a further option of all-wheel drive. That engine won’t be coming to Australia however, though the Sport trim will be – it may be called something else. The Sport trim also adds the cross-hatch Genesis grille, sportier bumpers, dark 19-inch alloy wheels and satin trim details around the car’s exterior.

Inside the G80 Sport is a thick sports steering wheel with paddle shifters, as well as sports pedals. Sports seats are also fitted and are available in black or grey leather with contrast stitching. In addition to that, genuine (according to the brand) carbon fibre trim on the dashboard and centre console also features, as does a black microfibre suede headliner and sportier gearknob.

The Genesis brand will launch in Australia in the first quarter of 2018, with full range details yet to be announced. The G80 will be the first product launched in the country, with the G70 mid-sizer following not long afterwards. Afterwards, Genesis has confirmed to be releasing a range of SUVs from late 2018.

The G80 will compete with cars such as the BMW 5 Series, Audi A6, Lexus GS and Mercedes-Benz E-Class on price, though it is actually slightly larger than those competitors – it sits halfway between the BMW 5 and 7 Series. We expect a three-pronged lineup in Australia, including an entry level model, the Sport and a model to sit above both, with all using the same 3.8-litre V6 that’s currently used in the Hyundai Genesis.