A large segment of the automotive industry is fixated on gas mileage averages, emission efficiency and alternative fuels that may one day make internal combustion engines the outliers. It’s all fine—but until then, here’s to the open road and full-sized, gas-powered luxury sedans, represented well by the 7-year-old Genesis G90.

In terms of brands, Audi, BMW, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz and Volvo are the aging stalwarts with loyalist buyers. Genesis is a confident newcomer, comfortable for its occupants and confident transporting them.

The 2024 Genesis G90, in the second year of its second generation, continues its role as the automaker’s flagship and most luxurious sedan. It’s the automotive equivalent of a young endurance athlete, respectful of its European elders but perfectly capable of leading the pack if the opportunity arises.

Offered as the 3.5T and 3.5T E-Supercharger, the 2024 Genesis in both trims is equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The Supercharger version adds air suspension and reclining rear seats with heat, ventilation and a massage feature.

Although it’s been a stand-alone brand for nearly a decade, Genesis is still largely unknown to some car buyers. The Genesis was the former top-end sedan for Hyundai, only outdone by the low-selling and also now-defunct Equus. The latter became Genesis G90 and debuted with the brand’s arrival in 2015 as the top-line spinoff. The GV80 and GV90 debuted in the United States in 2016 as 2017 models. The carmaker now has eight different vehicles.

What defines luxury? The G90 has plush and well-contoured Nappa leather seats that highlight the interior. Several heating and massage functions are standard; even the tilting and telescoping steering wheel has available heating. Further comfort and convenience are provided by tri-zone climate control, power sunshades, a UV sanitation chamber for phones, a premium 15-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system and customizable ambient lighting. An onboard fragrance diffuser offers a pleasant scent while an air purifier works to prevent outdoor odors from filtering in.

For those needing yet more pampering, Genesis also has a “mood curator” that changes the ambient lighting, climate setting, seat controls and sound levels to match the desired mood. The upgraded E-Supercharger trim adds a massage feature to the second row, a 26-speaker audio system and power-closing doors that shut with a button. (Opening the seats requires human interaction after the doors partially open.)

Major automotive safety assessment organizations have lauded Genesis throughout its short tenure. It’s warranted. The driver-assistance suite includes forward collision warning, blind spot warning, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, lane-keeping assistance and a rearview camera. Parking obstruction warning, driver monitoring, automatic high beams, rear cross-traffic warning, and safe exit assist are also in the mix.

Rear passengers have individual climate and seat controls with a small touchscreen interface, as well as the option to change radio stations and control the volume.

With all of its impressive amenities, the Genesis’ road presence throughout its lineup is what has further given the newcomer its rising status. The G90 embodies that appeal: It’s big, smooth, classy and provides refuge in the automotive jungle.

Facts & Figures

Acceleration: 0-60 mph, 5.2 seconds

Airbagsz; 10

Gas mileage: 17 mpg city, 24 mpg hwy

Horsepower: 375 or 409

Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $90,450

Price as tested: $100,695

Manufacturer’s website: genesis.com

Warranty: Bumper-to-Bumper, 5 years/60,000 miles; Powertrain, 10 years/100,000 miles; Maintenance, 3 years/36,000 miles; Corrosion, 7 years,

unlimited miles