Genesis G90 Facelift Pre-Production Model Spotted in Korea with Production Lights

According to ETNews, the upcoming Genesis G90 facelift is poised to make history as South Korea’s inaugural production vehicle equipped with Level 3 Autonomous Driving capabilities. Scheduled for a Q3 2026 release, the G90 was recently spotted in its pre-production form for the first time, thanks to our colleagues at ShortsCar. The vehicle was captured with both its rear and front production lights illuminated, providing a glimpse into its advanced features.

​What’s New for the G90 Facelift?

Inside the cabin, the facelifted G90 is expected to take a different leap forward in digital integration. Unlike the rest of the Genesis models or even the upcoming GV90, Genesis will introduce a more classic and elegant infotainment system (that will be hidden) and three cluster gauges inspired by other luxurious models.

​Unlike current driver-assist technologies, this Level 3 system represents a fundamental change:

• ​Conditional Automation: The car takes full control on designated highways, allowing the driver to take their hands off the wheel and eyes off the road under specific conditions.

• ​Smart Sensors: The facelifted model will utilize a sophisticated array of LiDAR, radar, and cameras managed by a new Integrated ADCU (Autonomous Driving Control Unit).

​Resuming the Push for Autonomy

​Hyundai originally aimed for Level 3 capability in 2023 but paused the rollout to ensure the highest safety standards through rigorous repetitive testing. The decision to debut this technology with the G90 facelift highlights Hyundai’s strategy to position Genesis as a direct competitor to the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Tesla’s FSD (Supervised), the latter of which currently operates at a Level 2+ capacity in Korea.

Comparing the Tech: HDA2 vs. Level 3 HDP

Here is the comparison between the current Level 2 (Feature HDA2) and the new Level 3 Facelift (HDP) broken down by key areas:

• Responsibility: Under the current Level 2 system, the driver must constantly monitor the road. With the new Level 3 Facelift, the system takes over monitoring the environment.

• Hands-Off Capability: Level 2 only allows you to take your hands off the wheel briefly or with assistance. Level 3 permits fully hands-off driving on designated highways.

• Emergency Takeover: If something goes wrong in Level 2, the driver must respond and take control immediately. In Level 3, the system provides a safety buffer time for the driver to resume control.

A Global Statement

​By integrating Level 3 tech into the G90 facelift, Genesis isn’t just updating a car; it’s entering an exclusive club of manufacturers that have achieved “conditional automation” certification. This move is expected to serve as a blueprint for future Genesis EVs, including the much-anticipated GV90.

​While official specs remain classified, the industry is highly energized by the prospect of the G90 facelift finally bringing true Level 3 autonomy to Korean roads this autumn.