Genesis has revamped their flagship luxury sedan for 2020, giving it a fancy new look and a host of upgrades with which to fight all facets of the competition.
Originally debuting in 2016 as a 2017 model, the G90 originally had a fairly tame look but that is now gone in favor of a bold-faced statement that just screams luxury. The first thing you’ll notice is the massive grille, giving this sedan its own unique identity. A lot of journalists like to chide automakers for their big grilles and other bold designs but don’t listen to them. Bigger is better in my opinion – especially in a world filled with bland German luxury sedans that all look like clones of one another. The Genesis G90 stands apart with a look that is unique and able to draw attention anywhere it goes.
A Statement of Luxury
Every exterior body panel on the 2020 G90 with the exception of the roof and doors, has been replaced or changed according to the automaker. In front, that signature Crest Grille is flanked by quad headlamps. My favorite part is the LED turn signal that splits the headlight and wraps around the side. After the wheel arch, the turn signal continues on the side panel making for a massive, yet classy lighting affair. Why can’t all cars have this? There is nothing worse than a tiny little incandescent bulb which can barely be perceived – a practice that is still all too common for some manufactures. Genesis rightly puts the appropriate amount of emphasis on lighting.
G-Matrix, a Genesis design hallmark inspired by light reflecting from an illuminating diamond, is applied to the headlights, taillights and to the 19-inch wheels. The wheels are stellar and give the car an even beefier look to it. They also feature sound absorption technology to noticeably reduce tire noise.
Pampering the Driver
The cabin pampers the driver with exquisite materials but also an ergonomic design that overcomes common downfalls of a large interior. The first thing that I noticed was how easily I could reach the controls. They were positioned so that I didn’t have to lean over to adjust the volume or climate functions. Another thing Genesis gets correct is that physical buttons are far superior to a touch screen interface for climate controls. The buttons were of the highest quality which match the rest of the interior appointments.
The 12.3-inch display navigation system now incorporates touchscreen controls as well as standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mirror Link. An Intelligent Car Management Service personalizes the driving experience using data to analyze driving patterns and informs the driver of necessary maintenance and vehicle wear. It can also be controlled via the dial next to the gear select lever to avoid saving to take your eyes too far off the road. Active Noise Cancellation reduces noise, vibration and harshness using leading audio technology to reduce unwanted noise intrusion. Let me just say that it works. The quiet serenity inside the G90 cabin is something to behold.
Rear occupants have the ability to control audio and other seat functions via the center console when in the down position. The right rear seat is actually 14-way power-adjustable and left rear and 12-way power-adjustable. If you need to transport a fifth person, the console folds up and out of sight.
Power to Spare
In Canada, the G90 will come standard with a 5.0-litre V8 engine that makes 420 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. A 3.3-litre twin-turbocharged V6 is available by special order only and it’s not listed on the online configurator. The V6 makes 365 horses and 376 lb-ft of torque.
The tester’s V8 provided enough power to launch the girthy G90 with ease. It’s smooth delivery via the 8-speed automatic was notable. What’s also interesting is that the vehicle has full-time all-wheel drive in case you had any qualms about it being able to handle Canadian winters.
New Security Systems
Genesis added an array of new driver aids and security technology on the G90 for 2020. The following new systems debut on the 2020 G90: Lane Following Assist, Rear Cross-traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Forward Collision-Avoidance, Safe Exit Assist and Highway Driving Assist.
The starting price for the 2020 Genesis G90 5.0 Prestige AWD is $89,750.00. When you compare with the starting price of a new 7-Series ($120,300) it makes it a bargain. You can buy your kid a brand-new Volkswagen GTI with those kinds of savings.
Genesis is the new kid on the block and will be for some time. The value that the product brings just might be enough to make some of the competition sweat. Be sure to check out the G90 if you’re in the market for a full-size luxury sedan.
