2018 Genesis G90 RWD: The Koreans Are Setting A New Standard For Luxury

Highlight: Although the brand has only been around for less than 3 years, Genesis has managed to top quality guru J. D. Power 2018 Initial Quality Study, which is based on the first 90 days of ownership.

Genesis G90 RWD Test Vehicle’s MSRP: $72,825 (Base Price: $69,325)

Seating Capacity: 5

Standard Safety Features:

ABS; air bags; a lane departure warning system; a stability system; a traction control system; automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection; driver’s attention alert system; a blindspot detection system; a rear cross traffic alert system; a lane keep assist system; a 360-degree camera; front and rear parking sensors; a heads up display system; daytime running lights; and a tire pressure monitoring system

Standard Equipment:

19-inch wheels; an 8-speed automatic transmission; a keyless entry system; a push button ignition starter system; LED articulating front cornering headlights; Nappa leather seats; power front seats; heated and ventilated front seats; a 3-zone automatic temperature control system; a 12-inch infotainment system; a navigation system; a rear seat entertainment system; a power tilt/telescopic steering; a rear seat entertainment system; a front seat wireless charging system; a power rear side shade; a power rear window sunshade; a power door closure; hands free power trunk; power closing trunk; and automatic dimming rearview mirror

Optional Features On Test Vehicle:

none

Standard Audio On Test Vehicle:

a Lexicon 17-speaker AM/FM/HD/CD/DVD audio system with SiriusXM

Bluetooth Connectivity: Yes

USB Connectivity: Yes

Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty:

5 years or 60,000 miles

Powertrain Warranty:

10 years or 100,000 miles

Standard Engine/Horsepower

3.3-liter /365-horsepower

Recommended Fuel: Premium

Standard Fuel Mileage:

15-city/21-hwy

What’s New: After replacing the awkwardly designed and unrefined Hyundai Equus and joining the line up in 2017, the Genesis G90 is literally a carryover model. 

For the 2018 model year, all G90 models include a standard CD/DVD player.

Why: The Genesis, which is a spinoff from Hyundai, has established a new standard of luxury in the segment. The stately Genesis G90 is available in two trims, a standard and an Ultimate package. The only features distinguishing the two models are the engine sizes, the addition of the power operated rear reclining seats and an entertainment system. The Ultimate trim includes the larger engine, power rear seats and the entertainment system.

All G90s are available in a rear wheel drive or an all wheel drive configuration. The standard model is powered by a 6-cylinder, 365-horsepower engine, while the Ultimate model we reviewed was driven by an 8-cylinder, 420-horsepower engine. We found pairs of engines to be acceptable.

Upon a closer examination, one will find that the design and engineering team paid close attention to every detail, while both designing and engineering the G90, ensuring that both the drive and performance of this flagship luxury car was on a par and in many instances, exceeded the competition based on the latest quality study.

Attention to detail and the thoughtful placement of all of the features throughout the cabin is a strong suit of the G90. Unlike many of the G90 competitors, the controls were simple and easy-to-use. The instrument gauges delivered the appropriate amount of information. As a result of the simplicity of the vehicle, it doesn't take long to master the vehicle nor does it require an advanced technical degree. In fact, the G90 wasn’t designed for those seeking glitz and glam. There is nothing to distract one from the road, when behind the wheel.

We also found the seating to be quite supportive too, whether one opts for the standard trim or the power rear seats in the Ultimate trim. This vehicle appeals to anyone whose looking for luxury (or stately luxury), without paying the additional $20,000 to $30,000 being asked of by its competitors.

But: The G90’s conservative limo-like design is fighting in a segment, where Lexus has just introduced a much needed redesign. The all-new LS has more of a sportier flair. Also all of the sales data indicates consumers are leaning toward flagship SUVs and crossovers in the luxury segment, as car sales dwindle. So, with the Genesis brand only selling cars, it has been a tough sell for consumers and dealers.

Moreover, the G90 does not showcase, as of yet, alternative non fuel powertrains. We can only assume a plug-in hybrid is slated for the drawing board to appeal to well heeled buyers, who yearn to go green.

Verdict: For buyers seeking what seems to be a reliable, well built luxury brand that does not require one to unload a few properties from their portfolio, the G90 should be at the top of one’s shopping list. The vehicle can be driven in all weather climates. And the well equipped G90 is outfitted with every feature most luxury buyers have come to expect.

Also the G90 does not require one to take their vehicle in for service. By simply scheduling an appointment, a representative from the brand will meet the owner at home or work, swapping out for a loaner vehicle, while the vehicle is being serviced. Yes, this is a smart buy for those seeking convenience and great customer service.

Competition:  Audi A8; BMW 7-Series; Jaguar XJ; Lexus LS; Mercedes-Benz S-Class; and Volvo S90