Buyers are hot for luxury SUVs. And yet, there still are large, comfortable sedans that can provide the room, ride, and handling (not to mention all-wheel drive) that make them viable alternatives in the luxury space. A case in point is this comparison between the 2020 Genesis G90 and 2020 Audi A8.
2020 Genesis G90
2020 Genesis G90 Starting Price: $73,915
Above Average: A luxury sedan at a more reasonable price that comes with impressive features and good looks. It is also available with all-wheel-drive
Below Average: Some high-tech features are missing, and there’s a lack of status behind the Genesis name
Consensus: The 2020 Genesis G90 compares handily to other, pricier German vehicles and, in some cases, outdoes them
2020 Audi A8
Audi 2020 Audi A8 Starting Price: $86,195
Above Average: Packed with impressive technology, understated design, and German engineering. Can opt for a larger engine, a mild hybrid or plug-in hybrid version
Below Average: Despite the recent makeover, styling is decidedly understated
Consensus: The 2020 Audi A8 got a substantial update in 2019, and many of the features carry over for 2020.
Also see: 8 new luxury SUVs for under $50,000
G90 vs. A8: Alphanumeric alpha sedans
The 2020 Genesis G90 might be the most affordable German-car killer you’ve never heard of. It compares nicely to other luxury marques like BMW, Lexus, and Audi and has plenty of power and features for a great price that makes it incredibly appealing. The only problem: Genesis, as a brand still lacks the cache of some of the other, more well-known automakers out there. The full-size sedan offers seating for five and a soft and supple ride. It’s quiet interior and ample power from the turbocharged V6, or optional 5.0-liter V-8 makes a subtle yet powerful statement when merging onto the highway. The G90 also comes with a suite of tech and safety features, including collision avoidance assist, full-speed adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera system.
Genesis The 2020 Audi A8 doesn’t get a lot of updates since it was overhauled just last year. It comes in a variety of engines (including a hybrid and plug-in hybrid) as well as optional all-wheel drive. True to the German automaker’s form, the Audi A8 is packed to the gills with advanced technology, including adaptive cruise control, one of the best digital dashboards in the business, and a suite of innovative safety technology. Inside, it’s quiet, refined, and spacious, and offers all the bells and whistles anyone could want, whether you are a front- or rear-seat passenger.
Similarities
A suite of standard safety and technology features come in both vehicles as do a variety of engine options
Genesis G90 advantages
- Pricing and a stellar warranty
Audi A8 advantages
- Hybrid engine options, more advanced safety systems, better-known brand
Final recommendation
Related: How to choose trim levels and options when buying a new car
The Genesis G90 is an incredibly good full-size sedan for a very good price. If you’re looking for affordable luxury, we can’t recommend the G90 enough. If you are looking for the most advanced safety and technology equipment on the market, the Audi A8 may fit your bill.
This story originally ran on KBB.com.
