G80

Make
Genesis
Segment
Sedan

Despite the fact that this year's New York Auto Show has been canceled, previously scheduled reveals are still happening, though via live streaming only. This is one of them. Introducing the all-new 2021 Genesis G80, the South Korean luxury brands mid-size sedan that will continue to compete with Germany and Japan's best. We've already seen some teaser images of the new G80 but today is the real deal, so let's dig in.

The exterior design language is called "Athletic Elegance" and it's a very much welcomed departure from the previous G80's more traditional look. Up front, the big crest mesh grille features double-lined Quad lamp headlights, which have since become signature to the brand. This same design is also used for the taillights and side turn signals.

The character line, in this case called the Parabolic Line, starts at the headlights and extends all the way to the rear, crossing all four doors in the process. This line, according to Genesis, is "counter-balanced by athletic 'power lines'" that highlight both the fenders and standard 20-inch wheels. Also notice the chrome trim starting at the bottom of the front wheels and continues along the bottom of the doors, going all the way to the rear where it extends upwards, further "strengthening forward visual motion." The sloping decklid is also a nice touch, though it's not a fastback design like the Audi A7.

As we've also already seen, the interior design is quite striking thanks to the unique split steering wheel and thin air vents running the length of the dashboard. Genesis specifically points out traditional buttons have been kept to a minimum for both aesthetic and ease of functionality reasons. There's also a heads-up display along with a 12.3-inch 3D driver's gauge cluster capable of recognizing the driver's eyes, and a 14.5-inch infotainment system with the Genesis Integration Controller software for systems like Genesis Quick Guide and Valet mode.

There are also over-the-air updates for the nav system while Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity are standard. Below the wide touchscreen are the HVAC controls. The center column incorporates a rotary dial transmission shifter and a separate "touch-and-write" pad for the infotainment system. Leather seating surfaces and steering wheel trim appear to be standard, as are leatherette dashboard surfaces. There's even open-pore wood trim throughout. Some other features include a Lexicon sound system and ambient mood lighting.

Compared to the outgoing G80, Genesis says both headroom and legroom have been increased and there's more space overall.

Under the hood, two engines will be offered. The standard unit is a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-four with 304 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. As expected, the 3.5-liter turbo V6, good for 380 hp and 391 lb-ft, is optional.

Oddly, Genesis has made no mention of the chosen transmission, but a good guess would be the same 8-speed automatic transmission found in both the Genesis G90 and Genesis GV80 SUV. Rear-wheel-drive is standard while all-wheel drive is optional.

Standard safety includes 10 airbags, smart cruise control, Highway Driver Assist II (which helps during lane changes and merging), forward collision-avoidance, and blind-spot collision avoidance. There's even Remote Smart Parking Assistance, aka Smart Park.

Sales are set to get underway in the second half of this year while official pricing and other relevant details will be announced closer to that time.