New Genesis G80 Coming In September, Will Ditch The V8

Genesis’ CEO has confirmed the 2020 G80 will be introduced in South Korea this September.

Speaking with Car & Driver, Manfred Fitzgerald said the redesigned sedan will feature the “next evolution of our design language” and roll out to global markets following its domestic launch.

There’s no word on when the model will arrive in America, but Fitzgerald confirmed the car won’t be offered with a V8 engine. This is somewhat surprising as the current G80 is available a 5.0-liter V8 that produces up to 420 hp (313 kW / 426 PS) and 383 lb-ft (519 Nm) of torque.

Since the V8 is a no-go, the range-topping engine will be likely be a twin-turbo 3.3-liter V6 that develops 365 hp (272 kW / 370 PS) and 376 lb-ft (509 Nm) of torque. It’s significantly less powerful than the V8, but it’s not that much more fuel efficient as the current G80 with the twin-turbo V6 is only rated 1 mpg – city, highway and combined – better than the V8 variant.

The V8 engine should continue to be offered in the G90, but it appears to be living on borrowed time. As Fitzgerald explained, “Don’t expect another evolution of the V8” as “We really have to pay close attention to markets and legislation, and hedge our bets.”

Also Read: 2020 Genesis G80 Shows Off GV80-Inspired Face And Sexy Body

Since Fitzgerald ruled out the possibility of upgrading the engine, it appears Genesis is eyeing a future without the V8. As a result, we shouldn’t expect to see it in any upcoming models and it will likely be phased out when the G90 is redesigned.

The news will probably disappoint fans, but Genesis is embracing electrification. As part of a plan announced in 2017, Genesis will launch its first electric vehicle in 2021. It will eventually be followed by a longer range model which can travel at least 310 miles (500 km).