Hyundai’s new Genesis G90: Epitome of luxury design identity

After an exterior peek of its new Genesis sedan G90 last month, Hyundai Motor Co. on Tuesday fully unveiled the flagship luxury model, its first model change in three years, following a partial facelift in 2018.

With the redesigned G90, the top South Korean automaker said it aims to further expand its presence in the premium sedan market not just in Korea but across the globe.

The latest model “represents the most elegant interpretation of the brand’s luxury design identity,” Hyundai said in a statement. “The model introduces a bold new direction that premium cars should pursue, with advanced assistance features that make driving easier.”

The all-new G90 will be available in a choice of sedan or long-wheelbase models, with the latter featuring an extended wheelbase of 190 mm giving more space for rear seats, ideal for VIP passengers.

Hyundai said the overhauled G90 will initially be available in Korea early next year, and gradually be introduced to other major markets abroad, including the US.

It will receive preorders for the G90 starting this Friday. The standard G90 is priced at about 90 million won ($76,000), while the price of the long-wheelbase version starts at 166 million won.

INTERESTING NEW FEATURES

Equipped with a gasoline 3.5-liter turbo engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission, the new sedan features a maximum output of 380 horsepower and combined fuel efficiency of 9.3 kilometers a liter.

Hyundai said the new sedan is loaded with new technology designed to improve driving comfort and convenience as well as safety.

Aside from an air purifier, the revamped G90 is the first Genesis model to come with a built-in fragrance system like its German rivals.

Hyundai said the fragrance system disperses three different scents with some interesting names: The Driver's Awakening, The Great Outdoors, and My Favorite Place.

For a smooth ride, the new G90 boasts predictive air suspension, which elevates the front wheels by 10 millimeters and makes other preemptive adjustments 100 meters before driving over an uneven surface.

When going down a steep slope, the front wheels are also elevated to prevent damages to the underbody.

When a driver approaches the G90 with the smart key, the auto flush door handles pop up, and once the driver enters the vehicle, the EasyClose system closes the door without needing to touch it, according to Hyundai.

The G90’s fingerprint authentication system in the center console enables keyless starting and driving, it said.

ELECTRIFICATION

Hyundai has unveiled an increasing number of luxury models in its Genesis lineup, including sedans G70, G80 and G90 as well as SUVs GV60, GV70 and GV80.

It now aims to lead the age of electrification by focusing on dual electrification involving fuel cell and battery EVs, starting with the G80 and GV60 electric models.

Genesis has thus kick-started its commitment to becoming a 100% zero-emission vehicle brand by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2035.

Write to Byung-Uk Do at dodo@hankyung.com
In-Soo Nam edited this article.