Genesis has unveiled its 2026 G80 sedan lineup, introducing a striking new Black edition that aims to rival the BMW 5 Series. Unlike typical black editions that merely add cosmetic touches, Genesis has fully embraced the theme, extending the black aesthetic throughout the vehicle, including the switchgear.
The new lineup is available now, starting at an unchanged price of $104,200 before on-road costs for the base turbocharged four-cylinder petrol variant, now renamed the 2.5T Signature. Despite the new name, it retains the same level of equipment as its predecessor.
The 3.5T Signature Sport sees a price increase to $127,200, up $6,200 from the previous model year’s 3.5T variant. This hike is offset by the inclusion of the Sport Package as standard, which was previously a $6,000 option. However, the G80 Black edition, priced at $125,200 before on-road costs, does not include this package, reflecting its lower price point.
Genesis G80 Black Edition: A Closer Look
The Black edition is a bold statement from Genesis, featuring a comprehensive suite of black-themed enhancements. This includes a black grille, 20-inch alloy wheels, brake calipers, and dark-tinted badging. The interior is equally impressive with black Nappa leather seats, exclusive quilting, and black ash real wood inlays with brass grain highlights.
Genesis Australia has decided to drop the rear-seat entertainment package, previously a $4,500 option, due to low demand. This package included dual 14.6-inch displays with USB-C and HDMI outlets for streaming services, but it had a takeup rate of less than five percent.
Pricing and Standard Features
The static pricing for the 2026 G80 follows price hikes from the 2025 model year, which coincided with a facelift and tech upgrades. The Luxury Package is now standard for the entry-level 2.5T variant.
All G80 models come with a robust set of standard safety features, including:
- Adaptive cruise control with navigation and machine learning
- Autonomous emergency braking with vehicle, pedestrian, and cyclist detection
- Lane-change oncoming/side assist
- Evasive steering assist and blind-spot assist
- Highway Driving Assist 2 and Lane Following Assist 2
- Radar-based rear occupant alert and rear cross-traffic assist
- Intelligent speed limit assist and surround-view camera
- Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist
- 10 airbags, including front, front-centre, and curtain airbags
Drivetrain and Efficiency
The G80 lineup offers two petrol engines, maintaining its reputation for performance and efficiency. The 2.5T Signature and the 3.5T Signature Sport both feature advanced drivetrain technologies designed to enhance driving dynamics and fuel efficiency.
Genesis backs its vehicles with a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, applicable to privately used G80s. Additionally, Genesis offers a complimentary valet service, where a vehicle is collected for servicing, and a replacement Genesis is provided, available within a 70km radius of Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane CBDs.
Safety and Technology
The G80 has received a five-star ANCAP safety rating for its four-cylinder models, with scores of 91% for adult occupant protection and 86% for child occupant protection. The vehicle also scored well for vulnerable road user protection and safety assist features.
“The petrol-powered G80 scored 91% for adult occupant protection, 86% for child occupant protection, 77% for vulnerable road users, and 80% for safety assist.”
Standard equipment across the G80 range includes a 27-inch OLED display, augmented reality satellite navigation, and an 18-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system. The Black edition adds unique screen graphics and black aluminium speaker grilles to its feature list.
Future Outlook and Market Position
The introduction of the Black edition represents Genesis’s commitment to innovation and luxury, positioning itself as a formidable competitor in the luxury sedan market. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, Genesis’s strategic enhancements and customer-focused services are likely to bolster its market presence.
With the automotive landscape shifting towards more personalized and technologically advanced vehicles, the 2026 Genesis G80, particularly the Black edition, sets a new benchmark for luxury and performance. As Genesis continues to expand its offerings, the brand is poised to capture a larger share of the premium sedan market.
For potential buyers, the Genesis G80 offers a compelling mix of style, technology, and value, making it a worthy contender against established rivals like the BMW 5 Series.
