Genesis G80 2.2D Luxury (2022) Review

When it comes to luxury sedans, established names like the Audi A6, BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and Volvo S90 have long dominated the landscape. But what if there’s a new player that brings a fresh take on premium quality, a stylish presence, and a distinctive blend of tech and comfort? Enter the 2022 Genesis G80 2.2D Luxury. It’s not just here to make up the numbers; it’s here to redefine expectations.

From its bold design and opulent interior to its suite of advanced features, the G80 has what it takes to stand out in a crowded market.

Design: Unmistakably Premium

One of the first things that strikes you about the Genesis G80 is its commanding presence. This is a car that exudes sophistication and elegance from every angle. The brand’s signature grille, sleek silhouette, and bold character lines give the G80 an identity all its own. It manages to stand out in a segment where it’s all too easy to get lost amidst the sea of similar designs.

The G80 isn’t shy about drawing attention, and it’s not uncommon to see onlookers admiring it as you drive by. Some might even mistake it for a Bentley—a compliment to its opulent styling and premium road presence. While personal taste always plays a role in automotive aesthetics, it’s hard to deny that Genesis has crafted a sedan that looks every bit as expensive as its competitors.

A Cabin That Redefines Comfort

The interior is where the G80 really shines. Genesis has gone all-out in creating a cabin that is not just functional but also feels genuinely special. From the soft leather seats and real wood trim to the high-quality metal accents, every surface exudes luxury. Even the smallest details, like the knurled finish on the control dials, add to the sense of occasion.

Technology is seamlessly integrated into the G80’s design. The large touchscreen, combined with a secondary rotary controller, allows for multiple input options, making it intuitive to navigate through the various functions. The digital display is crisp, vibrant, and easy to read, and the system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so you can always stay connected.

The layout is thoughtfully designed to provide both style and substance. There’s ample room in the front seats, and the rear passengers are treated to nearly the same level of luxury. Optional extras like heated and ventilated rear seats and an executive pack for more control over the rear cabin environment elevate the experience even further.

Performance: Smooth and Steady

Under the hood, the 2.2-liter diesel engine produces 210 horsepower and delivers a 0-62 mph time of around 8 seconds. It’s not blisteringly fast, but it’s more than sufficient for a luxury sedan that prioritizes comfort over outright performance. The engine offers plenty of torque in the mid-range, making it ideal for long highway cruises.

However, if you’re looking for a smoother and more refined powertrain, the 2.5-liter petrol engine might be a better choice. In the G70, it felt livelier and more polished—a characteristic that would complement the G80’s luxury persona even more. Regardless of engine choice, the G80’s rear-wheel-drive platform ensures confident handling and a balanced feel, even if its size and weight are evident in tighter corners.

Comfort and Ride Quality: Nearly Perfect

When it comes to ride comfort, the G80 does an admirable job of smoothing out most road imperfections. It’s a relaxing car to drive, especially on longer trips. That said, compared to its rivals, the ride can feel slightly firm and less cushioned over rougher surfaces. For most drivers, this won’t be a dealbreaker, but if you value a truly floaty ride, some competitors might have the edge.

Space in the cabin is generous, though taller passengers might find the rear headroom a bit tight, especially with the panoramic sunroof. The boot is another area where the G80 could be better. While it looks spacious initially, it lacks depth, which can make it a challenge to fit larger items. At 424 liters, it’s on the smaller side for the class.

Features and Technology: Packed with Surprises

One of the most impressive aspects of the G80 is how much Genesis has packed into it. It comes loaded with a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a high-quality 360-degree camera system. The G80 also offers remote parking assist, which lets you manoeuvre the car into tight spaces using just the key fob—a feature that’s as practical as it is showy.

Another innovative touch is the rear reverse lighting system, which projects a dotted guide onto the ground behind the car, making it easier to see and park at night. It’s little touches like these that show Genesis is thinking creatively about how to add real-world value.

The Value Proposition

The Genesis G80 starts at a competitive price point for the premium segment, undercutting many of its German rivals without skimping on luxury or features. The fully loaded model I tested came in at around £55,000, which, while not cheap, offers a significant value considering the level of equipment and craftsmanship on offer.

What Could Be Better?

No car is perfect, and the G80 is no exception. The diesel engine, while strong, lacks the silky refinement of a six-cylinder competitor. Ride quality, although good, can sometimes feel a bit firm over uneven roads. Additionally, the G80’s emissions are on the higher side, which might make it less appealing for company car buyers facing hefty taxes. These are minor flaws, but worth considering if those factors are dealbreakers for you.

Final Thoughts: A Genuine Contender

The 2022 Genesis G80 2.2D Luxury proves that Genesis is not just an ambitious newcomer—it’s a serious contender. The brand has clearly studied what makes the established players successful, and then infused its own distinct take on what a modern luxury sedan should offer. From its bold design and opulent interior to its suite of advanced features, the G80 has what it takes to stand out in a crowded market.

If you’re in the market for a premium sedan, it’s time to expand your options beyond the traditional German trifecta. The Genesis G80 offers a blend of luxury, style, and value that’s hard to match. Don’t just take my word for it—test drive one and experience it for yourself. You might find that this underdog is more than capable of giving the big names a run for their money.

To find out the latest lease prices for a Genesis G80, Click here.