Just last year, Genesis rebuilt the G80 from the ground up, hoping to bring a whole new face to the market. And it did, via two turbocharged powertrains and an all-new design language. There was a lot to like about the new Korean sedan. The 2022 G80 Sport takes it a step further and brings some sportiness into the mix.
2022 Genesis G80 Sport
Kyle Edward
From 2022, all Genesis G80 Sport models will come standard with all-wheel drive. So any G80 with a V6 under the hood is essentially a G80 Sport. Do you wish you could choose rear-wheel drive for some cornering fun? You’ll have to settle for the 300hp, turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-4 model, unfortunately.
2022 Genesis G80 Sport
Kyle Edward
G80 sports diet plan
Genesis tried to shave some bulk off the G80 Sport. The 2022 iteration weighs 4495 lbs, 163 lbs less than the previous generation AWD V6 configuration. The 3.5-liter V6 under the hood maintains its performance specs, with 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque available between 1300 and 4500 rpm. Given the wide RPM range where full torque is available, the Genesis G80 Sport can sprint out of pretty much any situation. Its mid-range acceleration is where it shines brightest, as overtakes come at lightning-fast 30-50mph speeds.
2022 Genesis G80 Sport
Kyle Edward
The noise level of the engine has dropped by 2 and 3 decibels at 110 km/h and at full throttle respectively. Nevertheless, speakers will come electronically to support the engine sound. Luckily, unlike other brands, you can disable the enhancement entirely. We’re looking at you, BMW.
Bold yet noble
While the huge crest on the front may not appeal to everyone, the overall design philosophy of the 2022 G80 Sport catches the eye everywhere. Two horizontal lines on the outside convey a premium vibe, even for those who might not know what Genesis is.
2022 Genesis G80 Sport
Kyle Edward
Inside, driver and passengers are treated to a wealth of design details and enough technology to swim. The Sport Prestige fairing in particular features a surprising criss-cross pattern, followed by thoughtful carbon fiber inserts. Red is the most eye-catching upholstery color of three. It might not be for everyone, but there’s also black and beige.
2022 Genesis G80 Sport
Kyle Edward
Premium driving dynamics
If you don’t want to sit in the back and be simply overwhelmed by the overwhelming amount of space and technology, get behind the wheel and see what the G80 Sport can actually do. At first, it seems like the sedan feels most comfortable in Comfort mode. After all, the G80 sedan doesn’t really scream “race.” The experience changes as soon as you switch to Sport or Sport Plus mode.
2022 Genesis G80 Sport
Kyle Edward
The steering gets heavier, but without additional feedback, the throttle responds more quickly to inputs and the brakes are more eager to pinch the vented rotors, even when just stroking the pedal. Sport Plus mode is very intense, keeping the transmission close to the redline with every shift and disabling traction control. With the addition of four-wheel steering, the G80 feels nimbler than ever and certainly helps keep the G80 on track under hard acceleration through corners and around tight corners. Dare I say that at just under 4,500 lbs the G80 Sport is even fun to drive down canyon roads?
2022 Genesis G80 Sport
Kyle Edward
take Genesis seriously
The new G80 Sport meets all the criteria of a luxurious mid-size sedan. It’s got the looks, it’s got the tech, and it delivers the performance. Genesis has steadily improved on its shortcomings and continues to rise as a brand, and the 2022 G80 is the result of just that.
2022 Genesis G80 Sport
Kyle Edward
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