Black in White: The 2026 Genesis G80 3.5T Prestige Black AWD
A couple of years after its last refresh, the 2026 Genesis G80 is looking for ways to set itself apart from rivals in the luxury sedan world. The market share for sedans has shrunk and the definition of luxury has proved to be a moving target as Gen X enters its late 40s and 50s.
One thing that seems to work is to de-bling.
And so, this year, Genesis introduces the Prestige Black trim, which the G80 will share with the GV80 SUV, the GV80 Coupe and the G90.
What's in the Prestige Black trim? Well, heck, Genesis went to the good time and trouble to write a press release, so let's quote that:
Prestige Black enhances each model with a blacked-out aesthetic that includes a darkened front bumper, radiator grille, Genesis emblem, daylight opening moldings, rear bumper, and headlamp bezels. Even the Advanced Driver-Assistance System (ADAS) radar cover features a unique darkened pattern, completing the cohesive look.
Genesis customers will be able to choose between two exterior colors – Vik Black or Uyuni White – each paired with exclusive all-black alloy wheels ranging from 20 to 22 inches, depending on the model. Inspired by a stunning volcanic beach off the coast of southern Iceland, Vik Black is a pure black with a vibrant shimmer brought to life by particles called “Black Diamond Pearl.” Uyuni White, with its pearlescent, creamy-white allure, traces its origins to the expansive salt flats of Bolivia.
The cabin features an upgraded Obsidian Black Monotone interior which continues the darkened theme and applies exclusive ‘Black Ash’ open-pore wood on the front center console, dashboard, and upper door panels. Touchpoints such as door handles and multimedia dials, HVAC controls, and steering wheel buttons receive a refined black finish, enhancing the elevated cabin experience.
So, there ya go. You can get your Prestige Black in white---and that's the one the Genesis press fleet folks sent us.
Under the hood, no changes, which is fine, because the 3.5-liter twin-turbo V8 making 375 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque is one of the nicest, smoothest, quietest engines out there, knocks back 0-60 sprints in 5.1 seconds and manages an EPA-estimated 15 mpg city/24 mpg highway.
The base price of the 2026 Genesis G80 3.5T Prestige Black AWD is $79,350 ($80,845 including destination). That money buys a very comprehensive list of standard equipment (see the window sticker at the end of this review).
The Genesis one-price model keeps extra-cost options to a minimum. The only one on our car was the Uyuni White paint at $650, so the bottom line on the window sticker reads $81,495.
That price is only $1,715 more than the last G80 I drove almost two years ago---a 2024 model. I thought it was a good deal then, and in these inflationary times, it's an even better deal now.
2026 Genesis G80 3.5T Prestige Black AWD
Price: $79,350 base/$81,495 as tested
Engine: 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6
Horsepower: 375
Torque: 391 lb-ft.
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic
Curb Weight: 4,619 lbs.
0-60 Acceleration (Car and Driver data): 5.1 seconds
EPA Fuel Economy Estimate: 15 mpg city/24 mpg highway
Fuel tank capacity: 19.3 gallons
EPA Range Estimate: 347 miles
Class competitors: Lexus ES, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Audi A6, BMW 5-Series, Cadillac CT5
