Hyundai has grown to such a level that it’s spinning off its luxury sedan, the Genesis, into a separate brand. The first model released under this new brand is the 2017 Genesis G90.
Strangely, pending a rebranding, Hyundai’s own Genesis model is still being sold, creating a bit of confusion. There is no confusion abut the Koreans’ high hopes, though, after appointing Luc Donckerwolke, former design director at Bentley, Lamborghini, and Audi, to craft the image of Genesis models. The 2017 G90 is not the work of Donckerwolke, though. It was styled under the supervision of Peter Schreyer, Hyundai and Kia’s chief designer.
The G90’s relatively short overhangs emphasize the long wheelbase. With a total length of 204.9 in, the Korean sedan is only 1.6 in shorter than the long-wheelbase version of the current Mercedes-Benz S-Class. 19-inch alloy wheels are standard, same as on the S-Class. The rear is defined by the large LED tail lights and the dual asymmetrical tailpipes. There are only five available colors to choose from, which is a bit surprising at this level. The BMW 7 Series, for example, is available in a choice of 13 colors, not counting the additional options offered through BMW Individual.
Tri-zone climate control with CO2 sensor is standard, as is a 12.3-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system and an additional 7-inch display in the instrument panel, between the speedometer and the tachometer. A 17-speaker Lexicon 7.1 surround system is the only available audio option.
When it comes to full-size luxury cars, rear-seat comfort and features are just as important as front-seat ones. Hyundai knows this, and the top trim level 2017 Genesis G90 spoils its rear passengers with seats that are electrically adjustable, heated, and ventilated. They also come with lumbar support and a memory function. Power rear and rear-side-window sunshades are standard as well. Rear passengers have at their disposal an available entertainment system with dual 9.2-inch HD displays, and they can stretch their legs in 37.8 in of space. The trunk has a volume 15.7 cu ft and features a power lid, with hands-free opening. All doors on the G90 have a power closing function.
Featuring an electronic transfer case, the AWD system can send 40 percent of the torque to the front wheels, in slippery conditions. The AWD system is directly linked to the drive mode control, which comes with four settings: Eco, Smart, Sport and Individual. In Sport mode, the system sends 10 percent of the torque to the front and 90 to the rear, while in Eco mode all of the available torque goes to the rear.
Independent of the chosen drive mode, the automatic transmission will change shift character, engine torque response and suspension damping by itself. This is because it has a feature that allows it to learn and adapt to your driving style.
Safety features include autonomous braking with pedestrian detection, blind spot monitor, lane keep assist, rear cross-traffic alert, driver attention alert, tire pressure monitor and adaptive cruise control with stop & go capability. A 360-degree bird’s-eye view mode is also provided as part of the parking assist system.
