Genesis G90 makes a case for the fading luxury sedan

The 2026 Genesis G90 is a wonderfully luxurious, smooth-driving, powerful family sedan. It’s the 11-year-old carmaker’s flagship vehicle and represents the brand well. But few new car buyers seem to be interested.

Since its 2016 debut as an independent brand (not to be confused with a Hyundai Genesis), the South Korean carmaker has steadily built a following. Its cumulative sales surpassed one million in 2024. But with the continuing demand for sport utility vehicles and pickup trucks, executive cruisers and road trip comfort mobiles are largely kaput.

It’s a logical transition. Sport utility vehicles are more versatile, generally have superior overall vision and are easier to enter and exit. They can carry more kids, groceries and supplies.

Still, full-size luxury sedans represent and model the enjoyment of driving.

The Genesis G90 is available in three configurations and is accomplished even in its “base” setup. It features a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

In fact, the term base model is inaccurate. Consider its standard features, including an adaptive suspension that scans the road and adjusts the ride accordingly. Massaging front seats, heated rear seats, power sunshades and a semi-automated self-driving system in a base model? Really?

The two more powerful trims and an electric supercharger increase the horsepower. There’s also mild-hybrid hardware that helps save fuel during engine stops and restarts, and does so smoothly. Acceleration is accomplished with steady confidence. But several competitors, including the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class, are quicker.

The increase in horsepower drops the combined driving efficiency one mpg to 20 mpg. It’s an unacceptable tally … except when it is acceptable by full-size sedan buyers who likely purchase vehicles without aspirations of bargain-hunting.

For a visually distinctive choice, consider the MHEV Prestige Black. It’s all black paint, wheels (21 inches), brake calipers, grille, trims, badges, speaker grilles. An all-black interior of fine leather and door inlays complements the metallic black paint. It’s new for 2026, a hard-to-fathom trim perhaps reminiscent of the exploits of an ominous movie character. 

The 23-speaker Bang & Olufsen 3D audio system is superior, as a symphony of sound envelops the car, and it can be fully appreciated in the quiet-as-it-comes ride. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are standard, and there’s a vertical charging pad on the console. Slip in a mobile phone and it disappears for charging. 

Not everything is top-notch: The G90 weighs more than 5,100 pounds, the heavy doors extend beyond arm’s reach and the push-button opening and small closing hold are awkward. For a luxury sedan, the G90 has a particularly small trunk. Back seat occupants, while comfortable, don’t have vast legroom. Plus, as an all-black vehicle, the G90 isn’t suited well for warm climates.

A decade into its existence, Genesis has received multiple honors throughout its lineup but isn’t especially well known to the general driving public. Its national dealer network is small.

There’s still a place for luxury sedans, although it’s a narrowing niche market. The second-generation G90 remains a worthy outsider in the segment. But its lowly sales aren’t promising for an enduring future. 

Facts & Figures

Acceleration: 0 to 60 mph, 5.4 seconds 

Horsepower: 409

Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $105,750

Manufacturer’s price as reviewed: $107,895 

Manufacturer’s website: Genesis.com

Warranty:  Bumper-to-bumper, 5 years/60,000 miles; Powertrain, 10 years/100,000 miles; Roadside Assistance, 5 years/unlimited miles; Maintenance, 3 years/36,000 miles

Facts & Figures

Fort Myers Genesis

2562 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers

fortmyersgenesis.com

Genesis of Naples

6780 Airport-Pulling Road N., Naples

genesisofnaples.com