There is an all-new 2021 Genesis G80 sedan coming later this year, and it looks like a potential class-leader in the mid-size luxury segment. The new G80 is powered by either a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder or a twin-turbo V8, meaning the 5.0-liter V6 found in the outgoing car is gone. With a new model on the way, now is a great time to consider purchasing a used G80.
Since Genesis is a newer brand, its cars don't have the best resale value in the segment. But the company's loss is your gain, because used G80 prices have now reached insanely low prices, even if you want the V8-powered model. Here's why you should consider a used G80.
Why You Should Buy One
The G80 went slightly unnoticed in the Genesis lineup because it didn't look drastically different from the Hyundai Genesis sedan before it was rebranded. But let's not forget, the Hyundai Genesis was still a luxury-rivaling sedan with a price tag that reflected its stature. The G80 has all the attributes of a fine luxury sport sedan: rear-wheel-drive, power engine, tons of features, and a balanced chassis. We'd argue that the G80 is among the most natural-feeling midsize sedans on the market to drive, right up there with the Lexus GS.
The Price
The upcoming G80 is a luxury bargain starting at $47,700, which is much less than its European rivals. But used models are even greater value. You can purchase a first-generation G80 (2017-2020 model) starting at under $20,000. The V8 models, which are the most powerful, now cost around $25,000 with relatively low mileage. If you want the Sport model (pictured below), which is only available with the twin-turbo V6, it will run you about $30,000 to start.
The Performance
Genesis offered three engines in the first-generation G80. The base 3.8-liter V6 isn't worth talking about since it only produces 311 horsepower with a 0-60 mph of around 6.5 seconds. It's okay, but not impressive. The optional 5.0-liter V8 is the most powerful, dishing out 420 hp and dropping the 0-60 sprint to 5.4 seconds.
There is also a 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6 engine in the G80 Sport, which produces 365 hp. The turbo engine is less powerful than the V6, but it makes a bit more torque far lower in the rev range, helping it feel quicker off the line. For the sound of the V8 alone, it's the one we'd recommend, though you lose out on the aesthetic improvements of the G80 Sport.
The Interior
While not exactly a cutting edge masterpiece like the 2021 model, the first-generation G80 is a pretty lovely place to sit. The cabin feels spacious and features an old school upright layout, reminiscent of an original Lexus LS. Genesis has been ahead of the curve in infotainment for years now, meaning the G80's touchscreen and rotating controls are highly intuitive and feature Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support. There are a few cheap-felling touch-points in the cabin, but available wood and carbon fiber trims dress the interior up nicely.
Verdict
With the G80 and Lexus GS F now gone, there are no more rear-wheel-drive luxury sedans with naturally aspirated V8 engines. There are plenty of great used performance cars, like the E39 BMW M5, that are great options for enthusiasts. But anyone who's owned one can tell you that the maintenance experience isn't for the faint of heart. The Genesis G80 is modern enough to still be reliable and have up-to-date technology. It is one of the last RWD sedans to offer a honking big V8 upfront and for that reason, we think now is a great time to buy one.