Review: The Electrified Genesis G80: A Pioneering Fusion of Luxury and Economy

The harmonious fusion of luxury and economy in an EV.

As an automotive fan, it’s hard not to get excited about the Electrified G80 from Genesis. This EV represents a significant leap forward in the world of high-end electric cars. This is not just another EV; it’s the beginning of a new era of luxury and economy combined in one compelling package — the fusion of luxury and economy in the body of an EV.

The Genesis G80 EV perfectly blends performance, design, and technology. It’s a testament to the Hyundai Group’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and creating a future where luxury doesn’t come at the expense of the environment. This vehicle is a game-changer in the EV market, setting new standards for what a luxury electric vehicle should be.

But what makes the Electrified G80 so unique? Let’s delve deeper into the luxury and economy of this electric vehicle and what it’s like to live with it daily.

Rear 3/4 view of the Genesis Electrified G80 in the exclusive Matira Blue.

The luxury of the Electrified Genesis G80

The Genesis G80 EV is the epitome of luxury. You’re enveloped in a world of luxury and sophistication the moment you step inside. The use of high-quality materials, attention to detail, and thoughtful design all contribute to an unparalleled driving experience.

The G80 Electric doesn’t just look luxurious; it feels luxurious. The exquisitely leather-clad seats are plush and comfortable, offering ample support for long drives. The cabin is astonishingly quiet, providing a serene environment where you can truly enjoy the drive. The ambient lighting, and the state-of-the-art infotainment system all elevate the driving experience, making every journey a joyous occasion.

The interior of the Genesis Electrified G80 is 100% luxury.

The Genesis G80 EV doesn’t just stop at luxury; it integrates cutting-edge technology that enhances comfort, safety, and performance. With its advanced features, this vehicle embodies the essence of a high-end electric car.

Features that make Genesis G80 EV a formidable high-end electric car

A Belgian named Luc Donckerwolke is the Chief Creative Officer for Genesis and his design talents are I think, showcased best in the G80 range. It’s these unique features that make the Electrified Genesis G80 stand out among the best luxury electric cars. The beautifully polished arrowhead grille, the super slippery profile, and the swept rear-end – all deliver style and economy.

The Genesis Electrified G80 gives excellent street presence. The neighbours will notice.

The G80 EV is equipped with a plethora of advanced features that enhance the driving experience. From its cutting-edge infotainment system and advanced driver-assist systems to its high-performance driving experience, the G80 EV is designed to impress and excite.

The crisp information from the 8-inch TFT LCD instrument cluster.

One of the standout features of the Electrified Genesis G80 is its all-electric 87.2 kWh battery and 272 kW/700Nm powertrain. It boasts an impressive 520km range, quick charging capabilities thanks to the 400/800V multi-rapid charging system, and incredible performance – 0-100km/h in 4.9s. The Electrified G80 is not just about efficiency and saving the planet; it’s about delivering exhilarating performance on par with traditional internal-combustion engine (ICE) luxury cars.

Where the fusion of luxury and economy is meant to be – giving perfect street presence.

The Genesis G80 EV also comes with advanced safety features. The vehicle has a comprehensive suite of active and passive driver-assist technologies that enhance safety and make driving more enjoyable. From lane keep assist and adaptive cruise control to forward collision warning, the G80 EV ensures you’re always in safe hands.

Living with a Luxury EV: The Genesis Electrified G80 Experience

Living with a luxury EV like the Genesis G80 EV is a unique experience. It’s not just about driving a high-end electric car; it’s about embracing a new lifestyle centred around sustainability and luxury—the fusion of luxury and economy. The G80 EV is more than just a vehicle; it’s a statement of your commitment to the environment without compromising on luxury.

However, the ‘greening’ of your driving experience comes with some lessons to be learned.

Charging at Home

The Electrified G80 comes with what we call a ‘Granny Charger’ – so easy, even your Grandmother could use it. Essentially, plug your car into any wall socket in your home and charge the vehicle. This is a standard charger so you can charge from 10% to 100% in around 8-10 hours, depending on the conditions.

Charging Out and About

This is where things get interesting. The type of charger and even the cable you use to connect to your G80 EV will make a massive difference in the quality and quantity of your charging experience.

We found a free Community AC Charger where you bring your own (BYO) charging cable. Thankfully we had the EVSE Type 2 to Type 2 22kW charging cable on board. For $230 this cable guarantees you up to 22kW (3-Phase, 32Amp) power from a compatible charger. A cheaper single-phase cable means a maximum of up to 45km of range per hour (if you’re lucky!). We saw 10.9kW on the dial in the G80 which meant we were getting between 60 and 70kms of range per hour – for free.

We tried an EVIE Network Fast Charger a few days later, which was a very different experience. 50kW of electricity flows directly into the Electrified G80 thanks to direct current (DC), meaning we get 250-500km of range per hour. It’s much more like it – and the cost was around $25 per hour, so considerably cheaper than 95 RON unleaded.

Out on the Road

The Genesis G80 EV offers an unparalleled driving experience. The immediate torque, the smooth acceleration, and the silent drive make every journey an exhilarating adventure. One afternoon I spent over an hour in traffic, and the sound of the rain hitting the double-glazed windows was very therapeutic. The G80 EV is a sensory deprivation tank on wheels.

The beautifully stitched heated leather steering wheel of the G80 EV.

When I was in the mood for some sound, the Lexicon 17-speaker digital Hi-Fi system filled the cabin with my favourite tunes. Apple Car Play and Android Auto are, of course, standard equipment. The Genesis infotainment system with 14.5-inch display and Integrated Controller are very intuitive. The circular gear selector reminds of the Apple HQ in California and is a bugger to use when you’re trying a quick three-point turn. My only other gripe was the quality of the head-up display – it looked constantly out of focus.

The command centre of the Electrified G80.

Measuring just over 5m long and 1.9m wide, the Electrified G80 is nearly as large as a BMW 7 series. On the inside, the G80 EV is a nicer place to be than the BMW. There is a load of room, especially in the rear, thanks to the 3m wheelbase. The off-white ventilated Prime Nappa Leather fitted to our G80 EV is luxurious to look at and touch. In the rear, the luxury goes to another level thanks to the multi-functional armrest. The rear occupants have complete control over the HVAC and entertainment as well as individual LED screens.

Comparing the Genesis G80 EV to other best luxury electric cars

Compared to other best luxury electric cars, the Genesis G80 EV holds its own. It offers a unique combination of luxury, performance, and economy that’s hard to find in other electric luxury cars. It’s not a nerd-fest full of incomprehensible technology for technologies sake. It feels just like it’s 3.5 litre petrol-powered brother. And at $145,000 the Electrified G80 is half the price of the BMW i7 and Mercedes-Benz EQS53.

Even parked the street the Electrified G80 is the perfect fusion of luxury and economy.

While many high-end electric cars offer impressive performance and luxury features, the Genesis G80 EV offers an added advantage- its economy. Despite its luxurious features and powerful performance, the G80 EV is surprisingly economical, making it an excellent choice for those seeking luxury and efficiency. We saw 18.3kWh/100km across the 300kms we drove in the G80 EV. That’s the equivalent of 2.06 Litres/100km and that’s very impressive.

The Genesis G80 EV’s combination of luxury, performance, and economy sets it apart from other best luxury EVs in the market. It’s a unique blend that makes it a compelling choice for anyone looking for a high-end electric car.

The economy of Genesis Electrified G80

The Genesis G80 EV not only offers a luxurious driving experience but also an economical one. The G80 Electric stands out for its impressive range, quick charging capabilities, and efficient powertrain. These features make the G80 EV an economical choice, offering more bang for your buck.

The Genesis G80 EV’s impressive range means fewer charging stops, saving you time and money. And with its quick charging capabilities, you can charge your vehicle in a short time, making it convenient for daily use. Then there’s the Vehicle to Load (V2L) feature, where the G80 EV can use it’s stored power to provide power to other appliances and products.

Moreover, the Genesis G80 EV’s efficient powertrain reduces running costs. From fewer moving parts, less maintenance, to lower energy costs, the G80 EV is designed to be economical without compromising on luxury.

Personal experiences with high-end electric cars: Genesis G80 EV

Having driven many high-end EVs, the Genesis G80 EV is one of the best luxury EVs I’ve ever experienced. It offers a unique blend of luxury, performance, and economy that’s hard to find in other electric luxury cars.

The very attractive side-profile of the Genesis Electrified G80 saloon.

Driving the Genesis G80 EV is a unique experience. The immediate torque and smooth acceleration make every drive exhilarating. And the luxurious cabin, with its high-quality materials and advanced features, provides a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience.

Moreover, the Genesis G80 EV’s impressive range and quick charging capabilities make it a practical choice for daily use. And with its economical running costs, it’s a luxury EV that’s easy on the pocket.

Conclusion

Thanks to the brilliance of Luc Donckerwolke, the Genesis G80 EV is a pioneering fusion of luxury and economy. It offers high-end features, impressive performance, and economical running costs, making it a standout among the best luxury electric cars.

The Electrified G80 is easy to park – even in tight spots.

The Electrified G80 is well worth a look if you’re coming out of a large German saloon and considering a luxurious EV. It’s a vehicle that delivers on all fronts, offering an unparalleled driving experience that’s both luxurious and economical.

The Electrified G80 is a car that’s not just about driving; it’s about embracing a new lifestyle centred around luxury and sustainability.

About Author
Mike is the Australian editor of SonnyDickson.com with a lifelong passion for cars, technology and engineering. He reviews and writes about all kinds of motoring and tech products for our readers. Follow Mike on Instagram or send him an email: mike@sonnydickson.com