For some reason, the facelifted 2020 Genesis G90 is on sale in Canada but not yet available in the United States.

This explains why the guys from Throttle House were among the first to get hold of a 2020 G90 to film a review. The Canadians figured that one way to test the refreshed G90 was to put it up against the segment’s benchmark, the Mercedes-Benz S560. That’s a reasoning we can’t argue with, and here’s what they found.

The S-Class really needs no introduction. Facelifted for the 2018 model year, the current-generation will soon exit the scene to make way for the all-new model that’s expected sometime in 2020. Until then, it should remain the top dog in the full-size luxury sedan segment, especially for buyers who care more about brand pedigree than value – who, we dare say, in this segment are the majority.

Also Read: Korea’s 2020 Genesis G90 Limousine Is Proper Gangnam Style

The model tested here is a 2019 S560, which features a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 making 463 HP and 516 lb-ft (700 Nm) of torque. It starts at just over $101,000 in the U.S., but in this configuration costs a respectable $110,000 (converted from Canadian dollars).

The 2020 Genesis G90, on the other hand, costs the equivalent of $68,000, despite the fact that it comes with all the bells and whistles available. It’s an absolute bargain compared to its German counterpart, especially considering that it also packs a V8. The naturally aspirated 5.0-liter unit makes 420 HP and 383 lb-ft (519 Nm) of torque — so, while it’s down on power compared to the Merc, it’s no slouch either.

The significant torque deficit, which can be attributed to the lack of forced induction, results in a different driving experience in the G90 – but not necessarily in a bad way. The car never feels underpowered and the higher redline contributes to a more old-school feel and smooth, progressive acceleration.

Add to that the fact that the G90 feels every bit as comfortable and luxurious as the S-Class, and it becomes quite difficult to choose a winner based strictly on what the cars offer and leaving aside subjective criteria such as brand image and design. That tells you all you need to know about how good the Genesis is.