The Genesis G90, initially launched as the Hyundai EQ900 in the South Korean domestic market, represents Genesis’s flagship luxury sedan. Introduced for the 2017 model year (2016 in Korea), this first generation (G90/EQ900 I) aimed to establish the Genesis brand as a serious competitor to established German and Japanese luxury automakers. The 5.0 GDi V8 AWD Automatic variant, produced from 2016 to 2018, sat at the top of the G90/EQ900 lineup, offering the highest levels of performance and standard equipment. It was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a powerful, comfortable, and technologically advanced luxury sedan.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Genesis |
| Model | G90/EQ900 |
| Generation | G90/EQ900 I |
| Type (Engine) | 5.0 GDi V8 (413 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 4-5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 12.1 l/100 km (19.4 US mpg, 23.3 UK mpg, 8.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 240 km/h (149.13 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.2 kg/Hp, 191.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 234.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 413 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 82 Hp/l |
| Torque | 505 Nm @ 5000 rpm (372.47 lb.-ft. @ 5000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 7000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Tau / G8BE |
| Engine displacement | 5038 cm3 (307.44 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 87 mm (3.43 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 12:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, CVVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 9.2 l (9.72 US qt | 8.09 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11.4 l (12.05 US qt | 10.03 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2155-2325 kg (4750.96 – 5125.75 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 83 l (21.93 US gal | 18.26 UK gal) |
| Length | 5205 mm (204.92 in.) |
| Width | 1915 mm (75.39 in.) |
| Height | 1495 mm (58.86 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3160 mm (124.41 in.) |
| Front track | 1640 mm (64.57 in.) |
| Rear track | 1639 mm (64.53 in.) |
| Front overhang | 860 mm (33.86 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1185 mm (46.65 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). Internal Combustion engine. |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 245/45 R19; 275/40 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 19 |
INTRODUCTION
The Genesis G90/EQ900 I, launched in 2016, marked a pivotal moment for the Hyundai Motor Group. It was the first model to be released under the newly established Genesis luxury brand, signaling a commitment to challenging the established order in the premium sedan segment. The 5.0 GDi V8 AWD Automatic variant represented the pinnacle of the range, offering a potent combination of power, luxury, and all-weather capability. Built on the G90/EQ900 I platform, it aimed to deliver a driving experience comparable to its European rivals while offering a distinct Korean design aesthetic and a competitive price point.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the G90 5.0 GDi AWD lies the Tau V8 engine, designated as the G8BE. This naturally aspirated 5.0-liter engine produces 413 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 372 lb-ft of torque at 5000 rpm. It features direct injection (GDi) technology, enhancing fuel efficiency and power output. The engine utilizes a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with continuously variable valve timing (CVVT) on both intake and exhaust valves, optimizing performance across the rev range. The engine is longitudinally mounted, driving all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. This transmission, developed in-house by Hyundai, provides smooth and responsive gear changes, contributing to both performance and refinement. The all-wheel-drive system is full-time, distributing power between the front and rear axles for enhanced traction and stability.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.0L V8 engine delivers strong acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 5.4 seconds. The eight-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned, providing seamless shifts and contributing to a relaxed cruising experience. While not as overtly sporty as some European competitors, the G90 5.0 offers ample power for confident overtaking and highway merging. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent grip in various weather conditions, enhancing driver confidence. Compared to the base 3.3L V6 models, the 5.0L V8 offers a significantly more powerful and refined driving experience. The V8’s torque delivery is linear and predictable, making it easy to modulate power. The suspension is tuned for comfort, prioritizing a smooth ride over sharp handling, although body roll is reasonably well-controlled.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The G90 5.0 GDi AWD came generously equipped with standard features. These included leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system (often Lexicon branded), a large infotainment screen with navigation, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras included a rear-seat entertainment system, massaging seats, and a power-adjustable steering column. Interior trim options typically included wood and metal accents, offering a luxurious and sophisticated ambiance. The exterior featured distinctive Genesis styling cues, including a large chrome grille and elegant LED lighting.
Chassis & Braking
The G90 5.0 GDi AWD utilizes a fully independent suspension system, with multi-link setups at both the front and rear. This configuration contributes to a comfortable ride quality and good handling characteristics. The chassis is designed for rigidity, minimizing body flex and enhancing stability. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) are standard features, enhancing safety and control. The G90 5.0 typically featured larger brake rotors and calipers compared to the lower-trim models, further improving braking performance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Genesis G90 5.0 GDi AWD was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its luxurious interior, powerful engine, comfortable ride, and comprehensive list of standard features. However, some reviewers noted that its styling was somewhat conservative compared to its European rivals. Fuel economy, at 19.4 US mpg combined, was considered average for a vehicle in this class. Compared to competitors like the BMW 7 Series, Mercedes-Benz S-Class, and Audi A8, the G90 offered a compelling value proposition, providing similar levels of luxury and performance at a lower price point. The 3.3L V6 models offered better fuel economy, while the 5.0L V8 prioritized performance and refinement.
Legacy
The first-generation Genesis G90/EQ900 established the brand as a legitimate contender in the luxury sedan market. The 5.0 GDi V8 AWD variant, while not the highest-volume seller, remains a desirable model among enthusiasts seeking a powerful and well-equipped luxury car. The Tau V8 engine has proven to be relatively reliable, with proper maintenance. On the used car market, these models offer a significant value, providing a luxurious experience at a fraction of the original price. While newer generations of the G90 have continued to refine the formula, the first-generation model remains a significant milestone in the Genesis brand’s history.
