G80, which has been the signature model since before Genesis began its own branding in 2015, was reborn with its new design philosophy. Genesis unveiled the all-new G80 filled with the company’s vision and technologies to its audiences.
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The all-new G80 is the third-generation model that leads Genesis in the luxury market as a mid-sized, executive luxury sedan. The G80 offers uncompromising style and practicality representing the most modern interpretation of the classic sedan profile with an ideal rear-wheel drive proportion and double-lined Quadlamps.
Kim KiEuk, Head Researcher in Genesis Exterior Design Team, shared the design philosophy and the story of G80.
Q. Are there differences between the G80 and the GV80?
The similarity between the two models is quite clear. The third-generation G80 is a lead model of Genesis, and the signature design elements of the brand were also applied to the newly-released upscale SUV GV80 under the design concept dubbed ‘Athletic Elegance’.
The biggest difference, on the other hand, is that the GV80 has rear-drive proportions with a generous dash-to-axle (the distance between the A-pillar, also the leading edge of the dash, and the front axle) distance. It gives the G80 dynamic styling. Also, the sharp athletic power lines of the front and rear fenders emphasize the powerful stance of the 20-inch wheels.
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Q. What did you have in mind when you were designing the new model, compared to its predecessor DH?
Just like the GT, the all-new G80 features a coupe-shaped design with the roof dipping slightly, but it has a lower trunk, compared to its predecessor. The profile of G80 is expressive with flowing lines and a sleek C-pillar helping to emphasize the ‘Low-and-Wide’ stance. In order to evoke the elegant image of classic cars, it features a long Parabolic Line that begins at the front fender and flows down gracefully to the rear.
Q. Does the G80 have any ‘timeless’ design elements?
Genesis G80’s uncompromising design reflects the brand values and philosophy of Genesis. Perfect proportion and sense of volume, reinforced by refined, exquisite design details offer such timeless value. The ‘Parabolic Line’ is one example. The side features a long sweeping Parabolic Line from front to rear flowing gently downwards, evoking the elegance of classic cars of the past. This is counterbalanced with an upswept chrome line to maintain directional posture. The sharp athletic power lines of the front and rear fenders emphasize the powerful stance of the G80.
Q. The front end of the G80 looks a lot like that of the GV80. Tell us about the essential design element of the G80.
The G80 and the GV80 share the same design theme. In particular, the Crest Grille, and the two lines of the Quadlamps circumventing all sides of the vehicle are signature design elements of the brand, first introduced in the GV80 and now in the all-new G80. The G80, however, maximized the characteristic of sedans by lowering the grille and the headlamps. The dynamic-looking single-frame crest grille and the intake grille mesh ensure the front end is smoothly integrated into the bumper.
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Q. Tell us what the double-lined Quadlamps represent.
The two lines of the wings become the Quadlamps, which extend past the front two wheels and are also present at the rear. They give the G80 much simpler yet bolder looks, symbolizing the brand in the end.
Q. The roofline looks quite sleek. Was it not a problem for designing a spacious cabin?
A decent luxury sedan like the G80 must offer not only beautiful looks but also plenty of headroom. The all-new platform has a lower body, offering both a sleek roofline and a spacious cabin.
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Q. Tell us about the rear image.
The Quadlamps again stand out, and the horseshoe-shaped negative surface of the decklid looks also remarkable. The carefully-considered balance between the lower, stable-looking tail lights and the extended Quadlamps depicting the brand logo emphasizes its elegant image.
Q. Now let’s talk about the exterior design elements that affect aerodynamic stability.
We used clay models for wind tunnel testing and numerical simulation on aerodynamic performance. We carefully crafted the grille and the corners of the bumper for aerodynamic stability. The active air flap system, for example, opens and closes depending upon each circumstance to reduce drag and improves stability. Vertical air curtains below headlamps also improve aerodynamics, and the trunk lid that looks like a rear spoiler, too, is carefully crafted for aerodynamic stability. Air deflectors and Under Cover both help with smooth airflow underneath the body.
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Q. Tell us about the unique wheel designing.
The Genesis G80 comes with 3 choices – 18, 19, and 20-inch wheels, and we tried to give them distinct looks. The 20-inch wheels with a long, slender spoke design boast a sporty and dynamic look with a traditional five-spoke shape. The 19-inch wheels come with either Dish-type or Y-spoke type, each featuring different versions of the G-matrix pattern. The grand-looking Mesh-type 18-inch wheels have very thin spokes.
Q. Why do the Genesis models share a common design element?
The unique design element that Genesis possesses works as a symbol of the brand identity. Slender Quadlamps, sharp Crest Grille, pentagonal crest muffler tip, sophisticated G-matrix patterns all represent that. They also get to show the brand’s innovative technologies.
Q. As the one who designed the G80, which design element shines the most?
The ‘Timeless design’ Genesis presents literally possesses the value that would last forever. We hope not only our consumers but also every single pedestrian who sees the G80 recognize such value. This is our ‘Athletic Elegance’ that would please you, just like fine cuisine.
