Exciting changes are on the horizon for the Genesis G80. The luxury sedan is receiving a complete overhaul for the 2021 model, with lots of new options and upgrades. One of the most noticeable changes will be the higher price tag. Although still priced less than its competitors, the 2021 Genesis G80 will increase in cost by $5,150. This pushes the starting MSRP close to $50,000 for the base model, leaving consumers to wonder if the redesign warrants such a big price hike.

The new 2021 Genesis G80

The all-new 2021 Genesis G80 is the third generation for this popular midsize sedan. Not only does it share the same powertrain from the new Genesis GV80 SUV, but it also bears a striking resemblance. The four-door luxury sedan comes with a standard 2.5-liter turbo four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Consumers who want more than the standard 300 hp can opt for a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 engine that offers more power and quicker acceleration. 

The entry-level G80 is expected to have high-end standard interior features that include ambient interior lighting, heated synthetic leather seats, and a large infotainment console that has a built-in navigation system. Exterior features include a huge pentagonal front grille with a unique headlight and taillight design. The dramatic new styling will undoubtedly help the 2021 Genesis G80 stand out among its rivals.

An abundance of luxury options will be available in the G80, but with them will come a higher price tag. Some of these features will include tri-zone climate controls, wireless charging, and a retractable power moonroof. Advanced safety features such as remote smart-parking assist will also be available.

The price differences between luxury sedans

The MSRP for the 2021 Genesis G80 base model is $47,700, which is still less than its European competitors. The 2020 models of the Audi A6, Mercedes E 350, and BMW 530i luxury sedans all have starting price tags of more than $55,000.

The fully-loaded 2021 Genesis G80 comes with AWD, and the top-of-the-line Prestige trim will come close to $70,000 once all is said and done. This is still considered to be a bargain because of all the bells and whistles that it includes.

The $5,000 price hike over the outgoing 2020 model is huge for a redesign. Kelley Blue Book recently noted that “the G80 offers technology and comfort on par with its rivals at a low cost.”

Although a newcomer to the market, Genesis is offering leading-edge technologies that may just warrant the jump in price. By undercutting its pricing in comparison to other vehicles in its class, Genesis could gain a competitive edge in the 2021 luxury sedan segment.

The reason behind the Genesis G80’s price hike

The reason behind the considerable price hike appears to be all the added features that were put into the redesign. The new look comes with a more powerful V6 engine and has tons more equipment than its understated predecessor.

The class-leading warranty may also set the G80 apart from other luxury sedans. The 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and the 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty will help to entice consumers in their purchasing decision. The generous warranty will also help the G80 retain its resale value.

The 2021 Genesis G80 is expected to hit sales floors by the end of summer 2020. Despite delays and closures caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Genesis’ CEO Mark Del Rosso recently told Roadshow that “the G80’s summer launch is 100% on schedule for this summer so look for the sedan and its stunning interior (which comes in blue!) in just a few months.”