Just a few short decades ago when looking across different classes and price points of cars, you really had to buy something special to get something special. Run-of-the-mill cars were just that - run of the mill. Now, just about every car you can buy is swimming with technology, finished nicely and performs admirably. There are some exceptions, to be sure, but for the most part cars are really, really nice these days. That brings us to this Genesis G80, offered by Hyundai’s luxury brand. Does it really offer more than the mainstream sedan? Let’s jump in and find out.
Under the hood, you’ll find a twin-turbo 3.3-Liter V6, cranking out a very respectable 365hp. Good for a 5.2-second 0-60 sprint in the RWD version. Quick, but not earth shattering. The engine does, however, have great low-end torque and feels quicker than the numbers show around town. Mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, there’s no shortage of ratios to choose from, even if it seems lazy to choose one from time to time. The biggest problem for me is the ‘Sport’ name applied to this version. And it’s because, well, it’s not very sporty.
There are hints of what’s promised by the name. Carbon fiber and aluminum trim adorns the interior and even the underhood engine cover. There’s firm bolstering to the seats which wear a decidedly Mercedes-like style. The steering wheel is fat, and has strategically placed thumb grips. All this adds up to the promise of a really spirited driving experience, but in the end the G80 Sport just doesn’t deliver.
That’s not to say there is no fun to be had behind the wheel. It’s still a pleasure to drive, and has ample power to be entertaining. It’s sort of like when your friend tells you about a movie, and hypes it all up - sometimes that hype can ruin the experience. I feel like that’s what the nomenclature of this Genesis does. The payoff doesn’t match what’s promised...
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