2018 Genesis G90

header-image
Rating7.6
Write Review
$68,350 - $74,350
Starting Price 
Nathan Dyer's image
Nathan Dyer 

Senior Editor,

Updated on February 1, 2024

ProsConsWhat's New

Luxurious interiors and rear cabin space

Interior materials' quality isn't as premium as competitors

LED headlamps replace projector headlamps

Cushiony suspensions provide an amazingly smooth ride

Limited dealer and service network

Ultimate trim gets dual 10.3 entertainment screens for the rear cabin

All variants come equally equipped

Average semi-autonomous and driving assist features

CD/DVD system is added to the infotainment system

Specs & Features

$68,350

price

365 hp @ 6000 rpm

horsepower

376 lb.-ft. @ 1300 rpm

torque

8-Speed Shiftable Automatic

transmission

3.3L 6cyl RWD 8A

engine

-

basic warranty

Overview

With its biggest and most spacious sedan, Genesis is all set again to compete for a foothold in the lucrative segment of mid-range luxurious sedans. The G90 enters 2018 almost unchanged except LED headlights in place of projectors and some minor improvements. With a powerful engine and amazingly hushed cabin space, the G90 tries to strike a balance between performance and luxury and hence becomes a strong candidate in this highly competitive segment.

For 2018 G90, Genesis offers a little but accurate menu of two options ranging from $68250 to $71850. The 3.3 premium trim is powered by the 3.3-liter V6 engine while the Ultimate trim levels up the game with a wider range of luxurious features a monstrous 5-liter V8 engine to fulfill all the fantasies of enthusiasts. AWD is optional on both trims with an 8-speed automatic transmission as a standard.

Buying Advice

Although, the premium trim provides enough power to satisfy you, but the ultimate trim comes loaded with additional features with a more powerful engine which makes it worth paying a little more money for.

Comparative Analysis against Competition

Competing with the BMW 7-series and Mercedes Benz CLS 550 with more plush interiors and a prestigious brand badge, the G90 does a fine job with almost all the significant features and power at an incredibly affordable price.

Features
9.0/10

Genesis offers only two trim choices for the buyers to choose from. The 3.3 premium variant is packed with a 3.3-litre V6 turbocharged engine to produce a maximum power of 365 hp. The Ultimate trim scales up with a few additional standard features and a turbocharged 420 hp  5-liter V8 engine. An option of all-wheel drive(AWD) is available with all trims with a standard 8-speed automatic transmission.

Trims G90 3.3T Premium G90 5.0 Ultimate
MSRP(RWD) $68,350 $71,850
MSRP(AWD) $70,850 $74,350
Features Adaptive automatic LED headlights Upgrades the rear seats with power adjustments (14-way right rear seat and 12-way left rear seat)
  Heated and power-folding mirrors Ventilation and memory functions
  Soft-close doors Pair of 10.3-inch HD screens has been added to the rear-seat entertainment system.
  Hands-free power trunk lid  
  Adaptive suspension  
  Adaptive cruise control  
  Auto-dimming mirrors, and keyless entry and ignition.  
  Head-up display  
  Tri-zone automatic climate control  
  Heated and ventilated front seats  
  22-way power-adjustable driver seat (16-way front passenger seat) memory functions for the front seats   
  Power tilt-and-telescoping and heated steering wheel Wireless charging pad, and USB ports in front and back  
  12.3-inch screen and a knob mounted by the gearshift  

Premium trim flaunts LED headlamps, power-folding mirrors, and other standard features. While the Ultimate trim has few more additions to justify its price tag like power-adjusted rear seats with memory functions and a pair of 10.3-inch entertainment screens to provide an exciting ride to the rear occupants.

We Recommend

Although the premium trim provides enough power to satisfy you, the ultimate trim comes loaded with additional features with a more powerful engine which makes it worth paying a little more money for.

Fuel Economy
5.0/10

The Genesis G90 maintains a combined fuel economy of 20 mpg which makes it the thirstiest sedan in the segment. The lower economy is the result of the 3.3-liter V6 engine which is bigger than the rest of the competitors except the CLS which unsurprisingly faces the same fate as G90. The CLS 550 sporting a 4.7-liter engine also lies at the bottom of the table with a combined economy of 21 mpg.

Model Genesis G90 Premium BMW 640i Coupe Mercedes-Benz CLS (550) Audi A7 Premium Plus
MPG (City) 17 20 18 20
MPG (Hwy) 24 29 26 29
MPG (Combined) 20 23 21 23

Interior
9.0/10

"The 2018 Genesis G90’s luxury-grade cabin and excellent fit and finish make it worthy of competition with pricier rivals. High-end materials include standard Nappa leather and genuine wood trim, but there are a few plastic surfaces. The seats are supportive on long jaunts, and there’s plenty of space in the front and back. Nearly every feature the G90 offers comes standard, but there are a few add-ons available."- cars.usnews

Seating and comfort

The Genesis G90 interior is surely exquisite but doesn't reach the BMW or Mercedes-Benz. The leatherette upholstery looks premium with tasteful use of wood. Use of plastic at certain places shows the price difference between rival brands and Genesis.

However, looking at the features, we must say that Genesis has done a splendid job to keep up with the competitors. Heated and cooled seats, 22-way for driver and 17-way for passenger power-maneuvered seats, heated steering wheel, three-zone climate control comes as standard whereas a buyer has to go harder on its pocket to add these to their BMW or Benz.

Model Genesis G90 Premium BMW 640i Coupe Mercedes-Benz CLS (550) Audi A7 Premium Plus
Passenger Capacity 5 5 4 4
Passenger Volume (Ft.3) 113.2 N/A 104.3 105.8
Headroom (Front/Rear) (in.) 41.1/38.0 40.6/37.0 36.9/36.1 36.9/36.6
Legroom (Front/Rear) (in.) 46.3/37.8 42.1/35.3 42.1/35.0 41.3/37.0
Shoulder Room (Front/Rear) (in.) 59.1/57.9 56.7/54.6 57.1/56.5 57.2/55.9

The G90 can easily accommodate five people including the driver. Being the highest sedan in the segment, the G90 delivers most spacious headroom among the competitors. Also, longer wheelbase gives it humongous legroom in the rear cabin making it the queen of space in this competitive segment.

Infotainment System

The 2018 Genesis G90 comes loaded with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen with navigation, rotary knob, and Bluetooth. The standard Lexicon-branded 17-speaker sound output produces an immersive surround sound experience which is pretty amazing as compared to its competitors.

The 5.0 ultimate trim offers an added pair of 10.3 inch rear entertainment screens to provide further excitement. However, unlike its competitors, Genesis lacks the essential smartphone integration options. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, MirrorLink, Wifi aren't even available as options which may compel the buyers to think twice.

Cargo/Trunk Volume

Despite being longest in the segment, the G90 occupies most of its rear space for its cabin, leaving a little usable space behind that we call the trunk. The sedan has a 15.7 ft cube of trunk space which pulls it down at bottom of the chart, just ahead of the more cramped up CLS.

Model Genesis G90 Premium BMW 640i Coupe Mercedes-Benz CLS (550) Audi A7 Premium Plus
Trunk Vol. (Ft.3) 15.7 16.2 15.3 24.5

Exterior
6.0/10

"The Genesis G90 is a conservatively handsome car. There's a distinctive grille, and it's big, but comes just short of the mega-grille trend on luxury cars that we've seen in recent years.It's not a head-turner, but Genesis is still developing its design language, and the G90 looks expensive, and the style will likely wear well over time."- Kelley Blue Book

Dimensions and Weight

The 2018 Genesis G90 almost carries over the same look and style as that of its predecessor. The only notable difference is the LED headlamps which replace the projectors. The G90 looks like a car with familiar design elements as that of its competitors but nothing unique of its own. The sedan fails to pose a threat to its rivals with its subtle design and styling.

Model Genesis G90 Premium BMW 640i Coupe Mercedes-Benz CLS (550) Audi A7 Premium Plus
Curb Weight (lbs.) 4630 4190 4158 4255
Wheelbase (in) 124.4 116.9 113.2 114.7
Length (in) 204.9 197.2 194.5 196.2
Width (in) 75.4 74.6 74.1 75.2
Height (in) 58.9 54.8 55.8 55.9
Ground Clearance (in) 5.1 5.0 5.1 4.4
Track Width – Front (in) 64.6 63.0 62.9 64.7
Track Width – Rear (in) 64.5 65.6 64.1 64.4

The 2018 Genesis G90 is highest in the segment which helps it provide ample headroom in the cabin. The longer wheelbase gives it the highest ground clearance in the segment and thus homely legroom in the rear.

Exterior Features

  • Adaptive LED headlights
  • Hands-free trunk lid
  • Power-folding mirrors
  • Keyless entry
  • Soft close doors

Safety
9.9/10

The 2018 Genesis G90 comes with all the essential safety features as per standards. The features include:

  • 4-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and EBD
  • Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) with pre-collision warning
  • Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Traction Control System (TCS)
  • Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
  • Brake Assist (included with ESC)
  • Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection
  • Front and rear parking sensors
  • Lane Keep Assist (LKA)
  • Smart Blind Spot Detection (BSD) with Rear Cross-traffic Alert and Lane Change Assist
  • Driver Attention Alert (DAA)
  • LATCH-Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children
  • Power window lock-out button and pinch protection

IIHS Safety Rating

The Genesis G90 has passed the crash test from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) with flying colors; 2018 Genesis G90 has earned Top Safety Pick + rating from IIHS which is the best possible rating across the board.

IIHS Safety Rating
Small overlap front driver side Good
Small overlap front passenger side Good
Moderate overlap front Good
Side Good
Roof strength Good
Head restraints & seats Good

 

Crash Avoidance and Mitigation
Front Crash Prevention Superior
Headlights Good
LATCH Acceptable

Competition
6.0/10

Genesis G90 sedan vs. BMW 640i Coupe

The BMW 640i Coupe comes loaded with a similar sized engine that produces poorer power and torque as that of a Genesis'. The G90 has better base package than that of BMW's with all the essential features like parking assist, remote locking and premium sound system integrated infotainment system at 15 grand lesser than BMW. However, the price difference seems to make sense when we look at the premium styling, handling, comfort, and fuel economy of the 2018 BMW 640i coupe.

Genesis G90 sedan vs. Audi A7 Premium

The Audi A7 L is powered by a 3-liter inline-6 cylinder engine which produces the lesser power and torque than G90. G90 also one-ups Audi in ride quality with a quieter cabin and cozier suspensions at a cheaper base package than Audi's. However, it offers a plush and luxurious interior equivalent to the BMW's which is, unfortunately, the only field where Audi beats Genesis.

Genesis G90 Sedan vs. Mercedes-Benz CLS 550

The CLS 550 sports a bigger 4.7-liter engine which produces the best-in-class power and torque. But, when compared to the 5.0 ultimate trim of G90, the CLS seems just average. However, CLS basically one-ups G90 in every field- interior, styling, fuel economy, handling, steering. The only catch is the price, Benz is nothing less than 5 grand more expensive than Genesis which would increase further with add-ons.

Final Verdict

The 2018 Genesis G90 offers great performance married with the fine handling and driving dynamics. The car doesn't feel exceptional and lacks punch on straight highways due to its lazier acceleration, credits to longer gear ratios.  However, the comfort of the cabin and interior features make up for it.

So, if you're looking for a good car around 70 grand without wanting to spend more on the add-ons which come with expensive brands, the Genesis G90 stands tall to help you find it.

Trims

    Premium
    $68,350 onwards
    • 19-inch chrome aluminum Wheels
    • Driver Lumbar support
    • Dual Zone Front Automatic Air Conditioning
    • Front Fog/driving lights
    • Nappa leather seats
    • Navigation system
    • Parking assist
    • Rain Sensing Windshield wipers
    Ultimate
    $71,850 onwards
    • Engine: 5.0L 8cyl RWD 8A
    • Horsepower: 420 hp @ 6000 rpm hp
    • Torque: 383 lb.-ft. @ 5000 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 5 sec
    • Top Speed: TBD mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 19 mpg

Compare to similar cars

Price

$68,350- $74,350

Engine

Gasoline

Rating

7.63

Horsepower

420 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque

383 lb.-ft. @ 5000 rpm

Capacity

5

Read Review

$82,500- $92,000

Gasoline

8.17

333 hp @ 5500 rpm

325 lb.-ft. @ 2900 rpm

5

Read Review

$71,900- $74,400

Gasoline

8.29

450 hp

406 lb.-ft. @ 1400 rpm

5

Read Review

$189,000- $244,600

Gasoline

8.36

500 hp @ 6000 rpm

487 lb.-ft. @ 1700 rpm

5

Read Review

$304,670- $335,600

Gasoline

8.62

505 hp @ 4000 rpm

752 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm

5

Read Review

$52,650- $73,900

Gasoline

8.81

248 hp @ 5200 rpm

258 lb.-ft. @ 1450 rpm

5

Read Review

$83,100- $99,400

Gasoline

8.33

320 hp @ 5200 rpm

332 lb.-ft. @ 1380 rpm

5

Read Review

$54,095- $88,295

Gasoline

7.83

265 hp @ 5500 rpm

295 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm

5

Read Review

$46,295- $71,095

Gasoline

7.8

268 hp @ 5600 rpm

295 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm

5

Read Review

$46,295- $72,495

Gasoline

7.63

304 hp @ 6800 rpm

264 lb.-ft. @ 5300 rpm

5

Read Review

2018 Genesis G90 vs competitor's 0-60

    Car Name
    0-60 MPH
    Quarter Mile
    Top Speed
    SourceCompare
    5.3 sec--
    2018 Audi S6

    Ranked #1

    4.4 sec13.1 sec155 mph
    4.6 sec--
    4.7 sec13.3 sec-
    4.7 sec--
    4.7 sec--

    2018 Genesis G90 vs competitor's MPG

      Car Name
      MPG City
      MPG Highway
      MPG Combined
      Fuel Tank Capacity
      Range (C/H)
      SourceCompare
      17 mpg24 mpg20 mpg21.9 gal.372.3/525.6 mi.
      29 mpg34 mpg31 mpg17.4 gal.504.6/591.6 mi.
      24 mpg33 mpg27 mpg17.4 gal.417.6/574.2 mi.
      24 mpg34 mpg27 mpg18 gal.432/612 mi.
      22 mpg30 mpg25 mpg19.5 gal.429/585 mi.
      22 mpg30 mpg25 mpg19 gal.418/570 mi.

      2018 Genesis G90 vs competitor's dimensions

        Car Name
        Length
        Width
        Height
        Ground Clearance
        Wheelbase
        SourceCompare
        204.9 in.75.4 in.58.9 in.5.1 in.124.4 in.
        227.2 in.79.4 in.64.8 in.6 in.139.8 in.
        219.5 in.75.8 in.59.9 in.6 in.128.6 in.
        215 in.83.9 in.59 in.5 in.132.5 in.
        212.6 in.76.7 in.61 in.6 in.129.7 in.
        208.6 in.77.8 in.58.6 in.7 in.120.7 in.

        2018 Genesis G90 vs competitor's trunk space

          Car Name
          Trunk Capacity
          Passenger Volume
          Max Trunk Volume
          SourceCompare
          15.7 cu.ft.113.2 cu.ft.15.7 cu.ft.
          13.7 cu.ft.97 cu.ft.13.7 cu.ft.
          15.6 cu.ft.130.5 cu.ft.15.6 cu.ft.
          16.7 cu.ft.102 cu.ft.16.7 cu.ft.
          16.3 cu.ft.106.3 cu.ft.68.6 cu.ft.
          15.3 cu.ft.107.7 cu.ft.15.3 cu.ft.

          2018 Genesis G90 vs competitor's cargo space

            Car Name
            Cargo Volume
            Cargo Volume w/ Seat Area
            Max Cargo Volume
            Bed Length
            SourceCompare
            1.5 cu.ft.15.7 cu.ft.15.7 cu.ft.79 ft.
            39.8 cu.ft.16.3 cu.ft.12.3 cu.ft.-
            2018 Audi S6

            Ranked #3

            57.5 cu.ft.14.1 cu.ft.57.5 cu.ft.76 ft.
            46 cu.ft.17.4 cu.ft.46 cu.ft.-
            20.8 cu.ft.15.3 cu.ft.15.3 cu.ft.-
            15.4 cu.ft.17 cu.ft.17 cu.ft.-

            2018 Genesis G90 vs competitor's towing capacity

              Car Name
              Towing Capacity
              Payload Capacity
              Weight
              SourceCompare
              --4630 lbs.
              1000 lbs.1087 lbs.4013 lbs.
              -870 lbs.4707 lbs.
              -1290 lbs.3891 lbs.
              -1136 lbs.5919 lbs.
              -1268 lbs.4001 lbs.

              Top Genesis Cars

              2018 Genesis G90

              Horsepower : 365 hp @ 6000 rpm

              MPG Combined : 20 mpg

              0-60 : 5.3 sec

              #1

              2018 Genesis G80

              Horsepower : 311 hp @ 6000 rpm

              MPG Combined : 22 mpg

              0-60 : 5.9 sec

              #2