Genesis G90 : The luxury automotive world is buzzing with excitement as Genesis has been spotted testing early prototypes of the refreshed G90 flagship sedan, with test mules captured in both Korea and California. This development signals the South Korean luxury brand’s commitment to keeping its flagship competitive in the ultra-competitive full-size luxury sedan segment, where it faces formidable rivals like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7 Series, and Audi A8.
Early Testing Reveals Ambitious Design Direction
Our colleagues at GGomaStudio captured the first test mule of the updated G90 in Korea, while KindelAuto spotted what appears to be another test prototype in California. This dual-continent testing approach suggests Genesis is taking a comprehensive approach to development, ensuring the refreshed G90 will meet global market demands and regulatory requirements.
The timing of these sightings is particularly noteworthy, as the current 2025 Genesis G90 carries over with minimal changes from its comprehensive 2023 redesign. This suggests Genesis is already planning ahead for a substantial mid-cycle refresh that could debut as a 2026 model, positioning the brand to maintain momentum in the luxury sedan space.
Neolun Concept Influences Expected
Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of the upcoming refresh is Genesis may incorporate the new design language previewed by the Neolun concept car, which also hints at the upcoming GV90. The Neolun concept, unveiled as a forward-looking design study, showcases Genesis’s evolution toward more sophisticated and technologically advanced aesthetics.
This design philosophy represents a significant departure from traditional luxury sedan styling, embracing more futuristic elements while maintaining the elegance and presence expected from a flagship vehicle. The integration of Neolun-inspired design cues could help differentiate the G90 further from its German competitors, which have largely followed more conservative evolutionary paths.
Expected Design Updates and Styling Changes
Front Fascia Transformation
The G90 is likely to adopt a refreshed front fascia, including a wider, more prominent grille and redesigned headlamps, aligning with the brand’s evolving design language. This approach mirrors the GV80’s recent updates, which showcase a shallower, wider grille and hidden exhaust pipes for a sleeker appearance.
The expanded grille design serves multiple purposes beyond aesthetics. A wider grille opening can improve cooling efficiency for the twin-turbocharged engines, while the integration of advanced sensor technology for autonomous driving features requires strategic placement within the front fascia design.
Lighting Technology Advancements
The redesigned headlamps are expected to incorporate cutting-edge lighting technology, building upon the current generation’s impressive Two-Line LED signature. Genesis has consistently pushed boundaries in automotive lighting design, and the refreshed G90 will likely feature even more sophisticated LED or possibly laser lighting systems that enhance both visibility and visual appeal.
Aerodynamic Refinements
Following the trend established by the updated GV80, the refreshed G90 may incorporate subtle aerodynamic improvements. These could include refined air dam designs, optimized side mirror configurations, and potentially updated rear spoiler elements that reduce drag coefficient while maintaining the sedan’s dignified appearance.
Interior Technology Revolution
Revolutionary Display Integration
One of the most significant expected updates involves the interior technology package. Inside, the G90 may incorporate a new 27-inch OLED display that integrates digital gauges and the infotainment system, similar to the GV80’s latest interior upgrades. This massive display would represent a quantum leap from the current dual 12.3-inch setup.
The transition to a unified 27-inch OLED display would dramatically transform the G90’s cabin ambiance. This setup enhances user experience with a seamless, high-resolution interface, providing drivers and passengers with unprecedented control over vehicle functions, entertainment options, and connectivity features.
Enhanced User Experience
The enlarged display system would likely incorporate advanced gesture control, voice recognition improvements, and potentially artificial intelligence-driven personalization features. This technology upgrade positions the G90 to compete directly with the most advanced luxury sedans from Tesla, Mercedes-EQS, and BMW’s latest iDrive systems.
Powertrain Possibilities and Performance
Current Engine Lineup Continuation
We don’t expect more updates regarding the engine line-up unless Genesis uses this facelift to launch its new hybrid engine that is currently under development. The current powertrain options include a 375-horsepower 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 as standard, with an available E-Supercharger variant producing 409 horsepower.
Hybrid Technology Integration
The mention of a new hybrid engine under development is particularly intriguing. Genesis has been gradually electrifying its lineup, and a sophisticated hybrid system for the G90 would provide improved fuel efficiency without compromising the refined performance characteristics that define the luxury sedan segment.
A hybrid G90 could potentially combine the existing twin-turbo V6 with an advanced electric motor system, possibly delivering combined output exceeding 450 horsepower while significantly improving fuel economy figures.
Advanced Safety and Driver Assistance
Enhanced ADAS Features
Expect the G90 to be equipped with state-of-the-art safety systems and driver assistance technologies, such as Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist and Remote Smart Parking Assist, features that are becoming standard in Genesis vehicles.
The refreshed G90 will likely incorporate the latest generation of Genesis’s Highway Driving Assist technology, potentially including Level 3 autonomous capabilities in certain conditions. This would position the sedan competitively against Mercedes’s Drive Pilot and BMW’s similar advanced driver assistance systems.
LiDAR Integration Possibilities
Previous testing has shown Genesis experimenting with LiDAR technology on G90 prototypes. The refresh could potentially introduce this advanced sensing technology as an option, enabling more sophisticated autonomous driving capabilities and enhanced safety features.
Market Positioning and Competition
Strategic Luxury Segment Play
These improvements are poised to reinforce the G90’s position in the luxury sedan segment, offering consumers a blend of sophisticated design, advanced technology, and robust performance. Genesis has successfully positioned the G90 as a value alternative to German luxury flagships while maintaining comparable luxury and performance credentials.
Competitive Pricing Strategy
The current G90 starts at approximately $91,000, significantly undercutting competitors like the Mercedes S-Class and BMW 7 Series. The refresh will likely maintain this competitive pricing strategy while adding substantial value through technology and design improvements.
Timeline and Availability
Industry sources suggest the refreshed Genesis G90 could debut as a 2026 model year vehicle, with a possible reveal timeline in late 2025. The extensive testing already underway indicates Genesis is serious about delivering a thoroughly developed product that addresses current market demands while anticipating future luxury sedan trends.
The dual-continent testing approach suggests global market introduction, with North American availability likely following shortly after the initial reveal. Genesis has been steadily expanding its global presence, and the refreshed G90 represents a crucial product for maintaining momentum in established markets while potentially entering new regions.
| Comparison Table: Expected G90 Refresh vs Current Model |
|---|
| Feature | Current 2025 G90 | Expected 2026 Refresh |
|---|---|---|
| Display System | Dual 12.3″ screens | Single 27″ OLED display |
| Front Grille | Current Genesis design | Wider, Neolun-inspired design |
| Headlights | Two-Line LED | Advanced LED/Laser technology |
| Engine Options | 375hp V6, 409hp E-SC V6 | Possible hybrid addition |
| Starting Price | ~$91,000 | Expected similar range |
| Autonomous Features | Level 2+ | Potential Level 3 capabilities |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will the refreshed Genesis G90 be available? A: The refreshed G90 is expected to debut as a 2026 model year vehicle, likely revealed in late 2025.
Q: Will the refresh include hybrid powertrains? A: Genesis is reportedly developing a new hybrid engine that could debut with the G90 refresh, though this hasn’t been confirmed.
Q: What’s the most significant change expected? A: The transition to a 27-inch OLED display system and Neolun concept-inspired design language represent the most substantial updates.