Review: 2022 Genesis G80 EV

Photo Credits: Autoblog, AutoTrader.ca, CarandDriver, and CarGurus

A NEW GENERATION OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES

Overview

Performance: Dual Electric Motors, 364 horsepower

Mileage estimate: Up to 265 electric miles

Price estimate: : $60,000 to $80,000

—

Warranty: TBA

Roadside Assistance: TBA

All-Electric 2022 Genesis G80 Review

Intro

Welcome a new player into the ever-expanding electric vehicle category – Genesis.

Not familiar with Genesis? It’s the luxury division of Hyundai that was created in 2015. As of early May 2021, the Genesis brand contained only four vehicles, three sedans and an SUV (GV80). The Genesis GV80 SUV gained instant notoriety earlier this year when Tiger Woods crashed into a tree in Southern California, causing serious injuries.

Genesis is dipping its toes into EV waters with an electric version of its upscale G80 sedan. The 2022 G80 EV had a coming-out party in mid-April at the Shanghai Motor Show, serving as the launchpad for the South Korean auto manufacturer’s future endeavors with electrified vehicles. A Genesis electric crossover SUV (GV60) is also in the planning stages.

The G80 EV is expected to be available in the U.S. by the end of this year or early 2022. The starting price is expected to be in the $60,000 range. For reference, the gas-powered G80 starts at approximately $47,700. Keep in mind that electric vehicles typically require minimal maintenance compared to gas-powered vehicles due to fewer fluids and moving parts as well as regenerative breaking which reduces break wear. Refueling can be inexpensive when charging is done during off-peak hours, additionally, some charging locations offer free use of their EV charging stations as an amenity. 

Exterior Style

Unlike some of its competitors, don’t expect a new futuristic exterior look for the Genesis EV. No surprises, the Genesis G80 EV will look like – a Genesis G80. It’s relatively indistinguishable from the regular G80 model, inside and out. And that’s a good thing because the G80 is stylish on the outside and has a smartly designed cabin.

However, there are some exterior differences, most notably in the front grille and rear bumper. The Genesis EV has an aerodynamic crest grille and the charging door is located at the grille’s upper-right area. Note that charging doors are invisible when closed. The major difference in the back end of the EV is that it no longer incorporates dual exhaust tips for obvious reasons.

Charging

Genesis has yet to announce a definitive battery-pack size. It will have a quick-charging system that reportedly will take a battery from 10 percent to 80 percent within 22 minutes. The G80 can also accommodate electric appliances that are located outside the vehicle. While it won’t match the range of Tesla vehicles or several other established EV models, the G80 is expected to travel roughly 265 miles before a charge is required.

Performance and Speed

Genesis says there will be an electric motor in the rear and front. The Genesis EV has standard all-wheel drive and depending on the road conditions and need for power, the vehicle can automatically switch between rear-and all-wheel drive to be more energy efficient.

Expect the G80 to have good performance, but not the kind of rapid acceleration that a Tesla generates. It’s believed that Genesis will equip the EV with roughly 364 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. That should enable a sprint of 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds.

Much like the standard G80, the EV model will deliver a fun. smooth ride with athletic handling and responsive steering. The regular G80 provides a well-balanced driving experience that results in a comfortable and quiet ride, even over rough road surfaces. Coming to a stop in the EV will be better than the regular G80 overall, thanks to regenerative braking.

Interior Space

The interior will feature a dark green, two-tone color design. Like the regular G80, the EV version has an uncluttered and cohesive feel to it. Genesis says the EV will feature “recycled materials such as leather with natural dye for seat and eco-friendly forged wood that will be made with recycled pieces from the furniture manufacturing process.”

Front seating is comfortable, spacious and supportive, with lots of head and leg room for even taller individuals. Its physical makeup will keep front-seat occupants comfortable even on long road trips. While not as cushy, the rear seats will be capable of accommodating three adults with a reasonable amount of space. Expect the cargo area to be around 13 cubic feet.

Conclusion

Due to its short history, the Genesis brand is not as well known as many luxury brands. Adding a capable EV sedan like the 2022 Genesis G80 should be viewed as an overall plus and a step into the future for the South Korean company.

– J.W.

User Video Review: 2022 Genesis G80