Hyundai’s luxury division has unveiled its extensively redesigned G90 flagship sedan at a presentation in Seoul, South Korea. For the moment, Genesis still has just the three sedans in its lineup of premium models, but it is planning to introduce three SUV models in the next few years.
The looks
Genesis has actually given its big sedan a substantial visual makeover, applying what it calls the theme of Horizontal Architecture to incorporate new exterior and interior design changes to the big sedan. The luxury brand’s so-called Athletic Elegance visual language gets an update, for example via the larger diamond-shaped front grille flanked by four-point headlights.
The hood gets two new centre creases, and the license plate is placed as low as possible, further accentuating the low and wide stance of the G90, which also features an elongated, horizontal side profile.
Quad lamps are also found in the back, and those wrap around from corner to corner. Genesis lettering replaces the company badge on the back trunk, and the car gets new exhaust finishers as well.
The optional 19-inch wheels get a new pattern design, plus they’ve been fitted with sound absorption technology for an even quieter ride.
The new G90 can be had in nine exterior colours, including the new Porto Red and Gold Coast Silver (the seven returning colour schemes are Marble White, Platinum Silver, Graceful Gray, Carbon Metal, Umber Brown, Royal Blue and Titanium Black). New this year are two dual-tone colour/trim combinations: Brown and Brown/Blue.
The interior
The interior design, less drastically overhauled than the outside, is once again characterized mainly by horizontal surfaces including a parallel layout which incorporates the air ventilation system, and audio controls which are reduced to maximize simplicity and a more intuitive user experience.
Genesis is introducing some technologies that are new to the brand in its top-end sedan, so for example owners will now be able to get over-the-air wireless updates for maps and software. The 12.3-in display navigation system has been updated to incorporate a copper Graphic User Interface (GUI), allowing users to zoom in and out of the touchscreen. The split screens are highlighted with signature copper accents. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility is included.
A new Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) system reduces noise, vibration and harshness using audio technology. The adaptive control suspension minimizes vibration in real time.
The new Genesis G90 sedan will come with a range of standard safety and drive assist functions, notably lane follow assist, rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist, forward collision-avoidance assist and safe exit assist, as well as 10 standard air bags.
The powertrain
The model unveiled in Seoul is the car spec-ed for that market, and the available engines there are familiar, so we expect we’ll be getting the same choices here. The G90 can be had with a 3.8L V6, a 5.0L V8 (both of those naturally aspirated engines) or a 3.3L twin-turbo V6.
Stay tuned for more detailed information regarding Canadian versions, pricing and launch dates for the 2020 Genesis G90 sedan.
