2018 Genesis G90 Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
Genesis may be an unfamiliar make, but its roots are well-known. The Hyundai conglomerate first started using the nameplate on its Hyundai...
Genesis may be an unfamiliar make, but its roots are well-known. The Hyundai conglomerate first started using the nameplate on its Hyundai Genesis sedan in 2009. In 2017, Hyundai launched Genesis as a luxury brand. For its first sedan, Hyundai rebadged its Genesis model to create the Genesis G80. That year also saw the introduction of the G90, the first exclusive model for Genesis. In the 2018 model, Genesis makes only minor changes to the G90.
A full-sized rear-wheel drive (RWD) luxury sedan starting at $68,350, the G90 competes in a market segment shifting toward larger SUVs. Consumers shopping for a sedan often favor better-known automakers, so Genesis has focused on building a remarkable car with extensive standard features at a competitive price.
The 2018 Genesis G90 features a long wheelbase and understated styling. Long headlights with slanted signatures flank the G90’s hexagonal grille. A long black aperture with additional LEDs and tasteful chrome accents frame the lower fascia. The sides employ subtle creases and surfacing, and the stalk-mounted mirrors keep the side window profile clean. The trunk lid is nearly 90 degrees and surrounded by vertical tail lamps that echo the lighting signatures on the front.
The G90’s interior is equally opulent. There are great big expanses of wood across the dashboard, door panels, and seatbacks, and there are satin-silver accents and buttons throughout. A giant, high-resolution 12.3-inch infotainment screen sits at eye level in the center of the dashboard. There’s Nappa leather upholstery and seating controls for rear occupants in both the two or three-person configuration. Contrast piping and rich colors will leave no doubt as to this luxury sedan’s stature. Like the exterior, the interior’s overall design is elegant and inviting. In particular, Genesis paid a high amount of attention to refinement, tactility, and ergonomics, letting passengers relax and enjoy the ride.
The G90 is available with two engines. The base trim engine is a 3.3-liter twin-turbocharged 6-cylinder with 365 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque. Buyers can opt for the 5.0 Ultimate trim with a 5.0-liter 8-cylinder with 420 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel-drive (RWD) platform with the Genesis intelligent HTRAC all-wheel-drive (AWD) system available. Every G90 comes with four selectable drive modes, ECO, SMART, SPORT, and INDIVIDUAL. Each mode feeds distinct parameters to the engine, adaptive suspension, transmission, steering, and stability control. Reviewers praise the G90’s driving dynamics, that offer plenty of hustle for a flagship luxury sedans.
On the feature set, the G90 is more than competitive. Self-closing doors are standard—if any door isn’t completely shut, the G90 will close it for you. In addition to that, navigation, a 22-way powered driver’s seat, a hands-free powered trunk lid, a powered parking brake with an auto hold feature, heated rear seats, a color heads-up display, a Qi wireless charging pad, and a 17-speaker Lexicon audio setup are all standard. The available Ultimate package for the 5.0-liter is aimed at further pampering rear occupants with ventilation, memory, and power movement for the outboard seats, vanity mirrors, and an entertainment system with dual 10.3-inch displays.
In regards to safety, the G90 benefits from being a large heavy sedan, but that didn’t limit Genesis from including an array of modern features. Every G90 comes with nine airbags: dual front units, front and rear side units, a driver’s knee unit, and curtain units for all outboard occupants. In addition, there’s a complete suite of standard driving aids, like front and rear parking sensors, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane keep assist, lane change assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, driver attention alert, adaptive cruise control, and a full surround-view camera system. The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS) tested the G90, and it received the highest marks in all crash categories, earning the title of a Top Safety Pick +.
Genesis shows the market that they can create a world-class luxury sedan with the G90. Fit-and-finish are top-notch, features are modern, and comfort is abundant. It may lack some of the drama of European competitors, but the G90 undercuts those vehicles by five figures and whispers opulence when others scream it. Anyone looking for a competent, handsome large luxury sedan would be well served by the G90.
What owners say
"Overall, drivers are impressed with the 2018 Genesis G90, praising its luxury features, smooth performance, and great value for money compared to pricier rivals. Owners loved the powerful engine options, the comfortable and spacious interior, and the extensive list of high-end features. However, some drivers noted that the gas mileage could be better, and a few wished for improvements in the vehicle's handling and technology interface."
Explain your rating: The 2018 Genesis G90 impresses with its luxurious features, smooth performance, and exceptional comfort, earning it a high rating. It offers a near-perfect balance of luxury, technology, and value, making it a strong contender in the luxury sedan market. Features: The G90 comes well-equipped with a plethora of high-end features. Highlights include: A refined and powerful V6 or optional V8 engine, delivering a smooth and responsive driving experience. Advanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a surround-view camera system. Luxurious interior appointments, including high-quality materials, heated and ventilated seats, and an expansive rear seat with executive-class comfort. An intuitive infotainment system with a large touchscreen, navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium audio system. Value: The G90 offers excellent value for a luxury sedan, providing features and performance that rival more expensive German counterparts like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and BMW 7 Series, but at a significantly lower price point. Genesis also includes a comprehensive warranty and excellent customer service, further enhancing its value proposition. Missing Elements: While the G90 is impressive, it could benefit from: A more dynamic driving experience, particularly in handling and steering feel, to better compete with sportier luxury sedans. Continued updates to its technology interface, as some competitors offer more advanced and seamless systems. A bit more brand recognition, as Genesis is still building its reputation compared to long-established luxury brands. Comparisons: I would compare the 2018 Genesis G90 to other full-size luxury sedans, such as: Mercedes-Benz S-Class BMW 7 Series Audi A8 Lexus LS Each of these models offers a blend of luxury, technology, and performance, but the G90 stands out for its value and comprehensive feature set.
May 17, 2024This car has every conceivable option you could think of and more. Runs smoothly and excellerates quickly when needed. Very responsive and a dream to drive.
December 30, 2020The 2018 Genesis G90 exceeded all my expectations. From its sleek design to its impressive features, this car truly stands out in the market. The G90 offers a wide range of advanced features that make every drive a luxurious experience. The spacious interior, comfortable seats, and state-of-the-art technology ensure that both drivers and passengers are always satisfied. - Abdel Ennajah
November 1, 2023What owners say
Explain your rating: The 2018 Genesis G90 impresses with its luxurious features, smooth performance, and exceptional comfort, earning it a high rating. It offers a near-perfect balance of luxury, technology, and value, making it a strong contender in the luxury sedan market. Features: The G90 comes well-equipped with a plethora of high-end features. Highlights include: A refined and powerful V6 or optional V8 engine, delivering a smooth and responsive driving experience. Advanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a surround-view camera system. Luxurious interior appointments, including high-quality materials, heated and ventilated seats, and an expansive rear seat with executive-class comfort. An intuitive infotainment system with a large touchscreen, navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium audio system. Value: The G90 offers excellent value for a luxury sedan, providing features and performance that rival more expensive German counterparts like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and BMW 7 Series, but at a significantly lower price point. Genesis also includes a comprehensive warranty and excellent customer service, further enhancing its value proposition. Missing Elements: While the G90 is impressive, it could benefit from: A more dynamic driving experience, particularly in handling and steering feel, to better compete with sportier luxury sedans. Continued updates to its technology interface, as some competitors offer more advanced and seamless systems. A bit more brand recognition, as Genesis is still building its reputation compared to long-established luxury brands. Comparisons: I would compare the 2018 Genesis G90 to other full-size luxury sedans, such as: Mercedes-Benz S-Class BMW 7 Series Audi A8 Lexus LS Each of these models offers a blend of luxury, technology, and performance, but the G90 stands out for its value and comprehensive feature set.
May 17, 2024This car has every conceivable option you could think of and more. Runs smoothly and excellerates quickly when needed. Very responsive and a dream to drive.
December 30, 2020The 2018 Genesis G90 exceeded all my expectations. From its sleek design to its impressive features, this car truly stands out in the market. The G90 offers a wide range of advanced features that make every drive a luxurious experience. The spacious interior, comfortable seats, and state-of-the-art technology ensure that both drivers and passengers are always satisfied. - Abdel Ennajah
November 1, 2023Great value for the price, rides really smooth, just glides across the road and turns heads everywhere it goes... the power under the hood is surprising, even in the v6 trim.
August 23, 2022This is my 2nd Genesis. First was the 2015 3.8 HTRAC, which I loved, it was my baby. I took this to trade in, parked right next to the 2018 G90 5.0 Ultimate HTRAC and I realized just how much nicer the newer model was! Depreciation was huge for the 2015 but as the brand continues to grow, now being Genesis and not Hyundai, I think it will hold more value. On the 2018, the one thing that is missing is Android Auto (or the Iphone equivalent. According to the Genesis website, it says that it does have it but I have not figured that out yet. I would love to see the rear mounted monitors allow for screen casting from the occupants phones rather than to a DVD player located in the front glove box. Put the 2018 G90 (or newer) up against the Lexus, Mercedes or BMWs of the world, and you are really getting more for your dollar spent (I wonder about adding in depreciation, the cars might be similar). On top of that, the 5/60k bumber to bumber (transferable) warranty and the 10/100k powertrain warranty, should give you plenty of peace of mind.
April 14, 2020I like it ,I think its a slept on vehicle until you drive it ,then it blows your mind. I apologize I said I like it,I meant to say I love it
October 16, 2021Second generation from Hyundai Equus, more styling and updated features. Great ride quality.
March 3, 2024LS500, Mercedes S550, BMW 750 G90 is good value and has all you need. Only negative is gas mileage is not as good.
April 23, 2021Trims & specs
Base MSRP $71,850 | Seating 5 |
Engine 5.0L 420 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity 15.7 cu ft |
Combined MPG 20 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $74,350 | Seating 5 |
Engine 5.0L 420 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity 15.7 cu ft |
Combined MPG 19 | Drivetrain AWD |
Base MSRP $68,350 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.3L 365 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 15.7 cu ft |
Combined MPG 20 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $70,850 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.3L 365 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 15.7 cu ft |
Combined MPG 20 | Drivetrain AWD |
