- Genesis will launch a performance-oriented Sport model of its G80 luxury car with unique styling cues.
- The G80 Sport will likely join the lineup as a 2022 model later this year.
- A rear-wheel-steering system on the Sport will enhance the luxury sedan's performance, but Genesis hasn't given other details of changes on the G80 Sport.
We've praised the new Genesis G80 for setting a new standard in panache for the luxury brand, and now the automaker has doubled down by introducing a Sport trim that comes out later this year. While we aren't sure yet if the car's powertrain will get enhancements for this more performance-oriented model, Genesis has said the G80 Sport will receive a rear-wheel-steering system.
We expect the G80 Sport will be offered with both turbocharged four- and six-cylinder engine options, like the current non-sport lineup, but it remains to be seen if either engine will see a boost in power for duty in the G80 Sport. We reached out to Genesis for comment but we were told detailed specs will be released closer to the car's launch.
Several design tweaks will help the Sport look the part, including a reworked front grille and bumper, Sport-specific 20-inch wheels, a tweaked rear bumper, and a revised lower rear diffuser. The cabin will also receive new embellishments including a three-spoke steering wheel and aluminum and carbon-fiber interior trim pieces.
Genesis will debut two new interior color schemes on the G80 Sport. The first is a black monotone look with either gray or red contrast stitching, and the second is a black and Sevilla Red two-tone scheme. Buyers will also be able to choose from new quilted or chevron-style patterned stitching.
The car is said to be ready to launch in North America in the third quarter of 2021, and we expect it to be available to buyers shortly after that as a 2022 model.