Genesis G80 Facelift Already Underway

It hasn't been long since Genesis introduced the second-generation G80 in 2020, and yet the luxury automaker is already testing its facelifted version. In the marque's home in South Korea, not even darkness can keep a heavily clad prototype safe from the public's prying eyes, with a YouTuber getting a close look (cabin included) at an early prototype unit while lodged in a parking lot at night.

Outside, the changes to the exterior are relatively subtle. Though the headlights seem smaller, the split-light design on both the front and rear continues, as with new Genesis models, including production-bound concepts. The pixel LED elements in the headlights were prominently visible, thanks to the artificial light used. The front fascia shows minor changes, with slightly reduced corner vents and what appears to be a smaller grille.

The prototype's sides remain obscured, but we'll wager the distinctive twin fender markers remain, mirroring the headlight design. It's still wearing the outgoing model's wheels, but we can expect some updates on this end.

At the rear, the taillights retain their twin bars but with larger lenses at the corners. Meanwhile, there's a dead giveaway that this isn't the electric G80 variant, given the exhaust pipes weirdly sticking out of the rear bumper corners. Those won't appear in production and are only there for emissions testing purposes.

A view through the windows hints at interior updates. The sporty-looking seats with red stitching have prominent side bolsters, while the chevron-shaped elements appear wider. The dashboard and center console are also in full view, albeit concealed by a cloth material, much to our dismay.

No official information has been disclosed about the potential engine offerings. The North American Genesis G80 currently offers a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 300 horsepower or a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 with 375 hp. The V6 model comes standard with all-wheel drive, while the four-cylinder offers both rear- and all-wheel drive configurations. We can assume slight changes in this department.

A date for the refreshed Genesis G80's reveal hasn't been set, but we're expecting a design debut toward the end of the year. As the 2024 Genesis G80 is already available for the US market, the facelifted model should arrive for the 2025 model year, just like the refreshed GV70.

The outgoing 2024 G80 starts at $54,150 before options and destination charges. Expect the mid-cycle update to carry a slightly higher price tag.