Genesis G80 Electric Review

Today, I’m diving into the Genesis G80 Electric, an impressive executive sedan that redefines what we should expect from a luxury electric vehicle. Priced from a reasonable £65,000, the model I am reviewing is a fully-loaded £80,000 edition, brimming with top-tier options and specs.

It’s well worth considering, especially if you’re looking for a high-end EV that stands out from the crowd.

Performance and Range

Let’s start with what’s under the hood — or more accurately, beneath the floor. The Genesis G80 Electrified boasts an 87.2 kWh battery pack, which delivers a respectable range of up to 323 miles. With 364 horsepower on tap, this EV is no slouch, clocking a 0 to 62 mph time of just 4.9 seconds.

While the G80 Electrified excels in many areas, the trunk space leaves a bit to be desired. At 354 litres, it’s a tad small for a car of this size, but it does feature underfloor storage that’s perfect for stowing away charging cables. There is a noticeable hump just behind the rear seats due to battery placement, but the space is still usable, if not perfectly designed.

Interior Quality and Technology

Step inside, and you’re immediately greeted by luxury. The quality of materials used throughout the cabin is nothing short of superb — everything you touch feels premium. Genesis has certainly outdone themselves in crafting an interior that screams quality.

The technology onboard is just as impressive. The driver information display has a subtle 3D effect, giving it a unique look that almost makes you question if it’s analog. Spoiler: it’s not. It’s fully digital, customizable, and incredibly user-friendly. The massive 14.5-inch infotainment screen, which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, is another highlight, though you might find you don’t need these because the standard system is so good.

Moving down the centre console, you’ll find more touches of luxury. There’s a secondary LCD display for air conditioning controls, complete with satisfying dials for adjusting the temperature. There’s also a wireless charging pad and two USB-A ports, a well-designed cupholder, and gorgeous Olive Ash wood trim that elevates the interior above the plasticky feel of many competitors. Every element feels carefully considered, from the large dial for infotainment controls to the elegant gear selector and well-damped storage compartments.

Comfort and Practicality

The Genesis G80 Electrified also offers an optional Nappa leather package. The leather feels soft and luxurious, though I personally would opt for a different color than the tan finish in this model. The seats are incredibly comfortable, with plenty of adjustability and electric controls. It’s like gliding down the road in your favourite armchair.

However, there are a few downsides. The floor is slightly raised due to the battery placement, which reduces legroom compared to the petrol or diesel versions. While it’s not a dealbreaker, it’s something to keep in mind if maximum space is a priority for you. The steering wheel is beautifully crafted and provides easy access to various controls, including the infotainment system, phone, and cruise control. There are also paddles behind the wheel to adjust regenerative braking, allowing you to tailor the driving experience to your preference.

Driving Experience and Efficiency

During my week with the G80 Electrified, I primarily did city driving but also took it on a few longer trips. I averaged 3.7 miles per kWh, which is quite impressive for a vehicle weighing in at 2.3 tons. This efficiency suggests that the car’s range claims are fairly accurate, even with all the tech and features in use.

The car comes with a solar roof that charges the 12-volt battery, helping to power the air conditioning and other comfort features without draining the main battery. If you live in a sunny area, this could generate up to 266 kWh per year, which is about what an average home uses in a month.

Rear Seat Experience

Moving to the back, the G80 Electrified reminds us of its luxury pedigree. While there’s plenty of knee and legroom, foot room is a bit tight due to the battery placement under the floor. It’s worth noting that headroom is ample even for taller passengers. The rear also features strong seat-back pockets, screens for rear-seat passengers, and controls for heated seats and the power rear blind.

Charging and Handling

The charging socket is cleverly hidden in the car’s sleek design, and while the vehicle maintains its luxury feel, it’s not without its compromises. The diesel version, for instance, felt like a bit of a compromise with its noisy engine and subpar MPG. In contrast, the electric drivetrain feels like a perfect match for the G80, enhancing its quiet, smooth ride and making it an appealing option in the luxury EV market.

Final Thoughts

So, does the Genesis G80 Electrified do enough to lure you away from the likes of Audi, BMW, Mercedes, or Lexus? I think it does. With an impressive range, luxurious interior, and a smooth driving experience, it’s a serious contender in the luxury sedan market.

Sure, some buyers may stick with the more familiar badges out of brand loyalty, but I encourage you to give the G80 Electrified a chance. You might just be surprised by what it has to offer. It’s well worth considering, especially if you’re looking for a high-end EV that stands out from the crowd.

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