Genesis invigorates its 2022 G80 sedan lineup with 3.5T AWD Sport models bearing several exclusive design elements that spiff up the car’s already compelling appearance.
The G80 Sport interior has a model-specific three-spoke steering wheel, aluminum dashboard components as a standard feature with genuine carbon fiber available as an option, and a choice of diamond or V-pattern seat quilting.
Exclusive exterior embellishments include dark glossy chrome on the grille and side moldings, a three-dimensional wing-shaped front bumper, and 19- or 20-inch sport alloy wheels. A new paint color, Cavendish Red, is reserved for the 3.5T AWD Sport.
For the performance-preoccupied car person, the G80 3.5T AWD Sport Prestige trim has rear-wheel steering (a first for Genesis), and a sport-tuned electronically controlled suspension.
Pricing for the 2022 Genesis G80 lineup starts at $49,095 including a $1,095 destination charge. This buys the 2.5T model with a 300-horsepower turbocharged engine and rear-wheel drive. In the premium midsize sedan segment where the G80 lives, it’s a competitive price, especially since this base model is lavishly furnished with standard features. All-wheel drive is available for a few extra grand.
Pricing starts at $64,545 for the G80 3.5T AWD Sport, whose engine produces 375 horsepower and all-wheel drive system is standard.
Both G80 engines are paired with a commendable eight-speed automatic transmission.
Genesis G80 3.5T AWD Sport trims come with a unique three-spoke steering wheel and a choice of diamond or V-pattern seat quilting. (Manufacturer photo)
Two 3.5T Sport Prestige models round out the G80 lineup, with pricing determined by tire type: either all-season or summer, at $70,845 or $71,345 respectively.
My test car was a G80 3.5T Sport Prestige with summer tires. In a Pacific Northwest spring so wet I’ve forgotten what a dry road even looks like, the all-wheel drive outdid the tires in terms of usefulness. Not that I’d have gone wild with the summer tires if not for the rain.
Beyond the lavish furnishings of the 2.5T, the 3.5T Sport adds a panoramic roof, ventilated front seats, power rear and manual side sunshades, three-zone climate control, power trunk, power door closure, wireless charging, a 21-speaker Lexicon premium audio system, and massaging for the driver’s seat. That’s just a sampling of the comfort and convenience features alone, and doesn’t even include other factors.
A 14.5-inch horizontal touchscreen infotainment system is standard. There are several options for telling it what to do, including voice commands, manual controls on the steering wheel, a center console touchpad wheel, and of course the always reliable touching of the screen. The system takes getting used to and is best appreciated after spending some quality time in the driveway familiarizing yourself with it, rather than trying to learn on the fly.
The Genesis G80 excels at delivering a rewarding experience in the hard-hitting field of premium midsize sport sedans. The best may be yet to come. An all-electric version has already crested the horizon.
2022 Genesis G80 3.5T AWD Sport trims have exclusive 19- or 20-inch alloy wheels. A new paint color, Cavendish Red, is another exclusive feature. (Manufacturer photo)
2022 GENESIS G80 AWD 3.5T SPORT PRESTIGE
Base price, including destination charge: $71,345
Price as driven: $72,170
Mary Lowry is a member of the Motor Press Guild and a member and past president of the Northwest Automotive Press Association. She lives in Snohomish County. Vehicles are provided by automotive manufacturers as a one-week loan for evaluation purposes only. Manufacturers do not control content of the reviews.
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