Much More Than Just A Placeholder
Everyone’s doing the electric dance these days, even spin-off brands like Hyundai’s Genesis, with this Electrified G80 sedan. And just so we’re all on the same page, they’ve actually named it the Electrified G80. So, let’s unplug and go for a spin, and see where Genesis luxury is headed as they charge towards an EV future.
As an electrified version of a model already in their lineup, you could look at the 2023 Genesis Electrified G80 as a compromise, or even a stop-gap measure on the way to bigger and better things. But that would be selling it far short, as it’s a gleaming example of seamlessly and beautifully integrating new powertrains and technologies into an existing platform with little to no compromise.
Inside, it’s every bit as elegant; plush seats covered in Nappa leather, fine stitch-work on the dash, and large crystal-clear LED displays. There’s also some unique looking veneers on the console and doors; a departure from the usual wood grain. A 21-speaker Lexicon sound system is on hand to provide a soothing soundtrack to whatever escapes you have planned. The experience is quite special for rear seat passengers too, with their own set of controls and materials that are every bit as nice as what’s up front. But, this is also where we do begin to see a little compromise, as leg room is not as plentiful as you’d find in most dedicated EV platforms. And, in the trunk, the battery eats up some cargo space, reducing it to 10.8 cubic-ft., down from the standard G80’s 13.1.
That 87.2-kWh battery powers twin 136-kW electric motors; one up front, and one in back for standard all-wheel drive. Combined output is 365-horsepower and a whopping 516 lb-ft. of torque. Plus, there is plenty of hardware on display under the hood, looking almost like a traditional engine.
This big beast jumped off the line like it weighs half of its actual 5,000–lbs. demolishing the 0-60 in just 4.2-seconds. But, like many EVs, from there, it seemed to dial the power back a bit as we worked our way down the track; ultimately finishing the ¼-mile in 12.8-seconds at 107 miles-per-hour.
You can tell they are clearly restricting what it’s capable of, as power delivery seems to pulse on and off like a pony rider constantly pulling back on the reins. It’s the only thing that distracts from a very serenely fast experience.
Available in one fully-loaded model, the Electrified G80 is on sale now for $80,920; but only in the usual East and West Coast limited markets. Availability will begin expanding before years end.
The 2023 Genesis Electrified G80 makes no secret of what it’s all about; it’s right there in the name. Genesis has taken one of their best ever efforts and given it a whole new drivetrain to power them into the future. We already know they have many dedicated EVs in the works; but the Electrified G80 is much more than just a placeholder.
Vital Statistics
Motor Setup: Dual 136 kWh Motors
Battery: 87.2 kWh
Horsepower: 365
Torque: 516 lb-ft
EPA Range: 282 miles
MW Range: ~ 330 miles
0-60 mph: 4.2 seconds
1/4 Mile: 12.8 seconds at 107 mph
60-0 Braking: 117 feet (avg)
Keyword: 2023 Genesis Electrified G80