A brand-new Genesis G80 Hybrid prototype has been spotted in South Korea, giving us our most revealing look yet at the luxury sedan’s upcoming electrified evolution. The vehicle, captured by Healer TV, showed one of the most unexpected design elements, the presence of electronic door-open buttons on the rear doors, similar to those used in the flagship Genesis G90. Surprisingly, the front doors still used conventional mechanical levers, suggesting Genesis may still didn’t applied it to all the prototypes.
Underbody Battery Confirms Hybrid Development
The prototype also revealed a noticeable battery pack mounted beneath the front passenger area, further validating that Genesis is deep into development of the G80 Hybrid. The “RG3 HEV” tag aligns with Genesis’ naming structure:
- RG3: Third-generation G80
- HEV: Hybrid Electric Vehicle
This prototype aligns with Genesis’ broader electrification strategy, which includes the GV80 Hybrid, GV80 Coupe Hybrid, and now the G80 Hybrid sedan.
A New Hybrid Powertrain for Genesis: 2.5 Turbo + Dual-Motor System
Genesis’ next-generation hybrids will be powered by Hyundai Motor Group’s sophisticated P1 + P2 parallel hybrid system, combining:
- 2.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine
- P1 motor to reduce fuel consumption
- P2 motor to enhance driving force and performance
This advanced dual-motor architecture enables seamless power delivery, reduced emissions, and long-distance driving—without sacrificing the refined driving character Genesis buyers expect.
Impressive Fuel Efficiency: More Than 670 Miles of Range
Early estimates already position the new hybrid lineup as a major leap forward in fuel economy:
- GV80 Hybrid (19-inch wheels): 13.5 km/L (31.8 mpg US), 1,080 km range
- GV80 Coupe Hybrid (20-inch wheels): 11.9 km/L (28.0 mpg US), 952 km range
These efficiency gains represent a 45 percent improvement over gasoline models. The G80 Hybrid is expected to perform even better thanks to its sleeker sedan aerodynamics when it launches in late 2026.
Power Boost to Around 362 HP
The hybrid system isn’t just focused on saving fuel. Output is expected to rise significantly compared to the standard 2.5 turbo engine:
- Estimated power: ~362 hp
- Estimated torque: ~46.9 kgf·m
This upgrade positions the G80 Hybrid as a strong performer among midsize luxury sedans, offering smoother acceleration and more confident passing power relative to its gasoline-only counterpart.
EV-Inspired Convenience Features
Genesis is integrating several high-voltage technologies usually reserved for electric vehicles:
- Stay Mode: Keeps the A/C and infotainment system running while parked, without the engine
- Vehicle-to-Load (V2L): Up to 3.6 kW of external power for appliances, tools, or camping gear
These features give the G80 Hybrid modern versatility while enhancing the premium travel experience.
Release Timeline: G80 Hybrid Coming Late 2026
Genesis’ hybrid rollout will follow this schedule:
- Q3 2026: GV80 Hybrid & GV80 Coupe Hybrid
- Q4 2026: G80 Hybrid sedan
With the G80 Hybrid now caught testing out in the open—with surprising luxury features borrowed from the G90—it’s clear Genesis is preparing a significant step forward in electrified premium mobility.
