The 2020 Genesis G90 is a full-size luxury sedan from Hyundai’s premium brand. It’s aimed at buyers looking for a high-end experience without the six-figure price tag that often accompanies well-established luxury makes.

Still in its first generation, the 2020 G90 underwent a significant refresh that touched every part of the body except for the doors and roof. It comes standard with a rear-wheel drivetrain and offers two robust engine choices: a 3.3-liter twin-turbocharged V6 that delivers 365 horsepower and 376 pound-feet of torque and a 5.0-liter V8 rated at 420 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. Both engines are mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission and offer optional all-wheel-drive. 

2020 marks the just third year of operation for Hyundai‘s Genesis premium luxury brand, but you wouldn’t know it judging the G90 sedan’s high level of fit, finish, and comfort. Genesis

The G90 is fun to drive, especially in the Sport mode, which lowers the suspension, raises the seat bolsters and tightens the steering for more precise operation. Many will choose the V8 option for the extra oomph, while others will opt for the relative efficiency of the V6. The truth is, though, there isn’t much difference between the two in either category. The EPA fuel economy estimates for combined driving differ by just one—20 in the V6 and 19 in the V8—and the horsepower bump gained by going to the V8 is 55. That’s good, but not particularly noticeable in a car this big.

Genesis focused on crafting an interior that cossets passengers with upscale materials, premium-looking finishes and a quiet ride. Genesis

The cabin is a quiet sanctuary, thanks to the G90s solid build, extensive dampening materials and active noise canceling technology. A 12.3-inch touchscreen with navigation and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility is standard kit, and the updated interior features real wood trim and ambient lighting with seven color choices. A 22-way power driver seat (16-way for the passenger), comfortable Nappa leather seating, power sunshades and oodles of space (113.2 cubic-feet passenger space) all fortify the G90s luxury experience. 

There are other compelling reasons to consider the G90. The most recent G90 enhancements include over-the-air wireless updates for navigation and vehicle software, and the interface uses split touchscreens instead of the touchpads that many luxury brands use to the great annoyance of virtually everyone who uses them. In the background, the car’s Artificial Intelligence-like data system analyzes driving patterns to keep up with necessary maintenance and vehicle wear, informing the owner if his or her driving styles are accelerating any of those degradations.

Genesis connected services software permits owners to access their vehicle remotely via Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant to start and pre-heat or cool your vehicle, track maintenance intervals and schedule service visits, among other features. Genesis

From the outside, the G90 earns its seat at the premium luxury table. Its design is well proportioned and attractive, though the grille feels too big and a port on the side of the front fender does feel a bit faux. But those are forgivable offenses, and the design works because of features like the dramatic headlight and taillight designs and a collection of exciting wheel options. 

The G90’s cosmetic refresh for 2020 transformed the already prodigious grille into an even bolder statement. Genesis

Fortunately, Hyundai and Kia have had premium-luxury models before—the so-so Equus chief among them—but resting an entire brand on them is another story. Fortunately, this car more than lives up to the standards associated with the segment.