IN Asean nations, the luxury car segment is dominated by the German car brands and Lexus from Japan. Even Infiniti – Nissan’s luxury car division – could not survive the dominance of German brands and had to close its doors in Malaysia.
Branding and image perceptions have given Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz a far lead in all the relevant segments for which they have products for sale and this has led them to be complacent in many areas.
As you see new exciting models being released from these German brands, you also realise after close scrutiny that they have cut corners in plastic quality, leather quality and even fitment. They continue to deliver state-of-the-art entertainment units, flamboyant styling and technology-filled powertrains and this is why their prices remain high and keep their brand image intact.
Meanwhile, the competition like Lexus delivers high quality cabins, precision fitment and technology driven powertrains and still lag behind in sales in Asean nations. In North America and China, where consumers understand and appreciate quality over brand image, Lexus remains a top seller and with rising demand.
This is why Korean auto manufacturer, Hyundai, established their luxury auto division, Genesis. Already a rising star in North America and Europe, Genesis is still rather unknown in Asean and needs more branding and push to educate buyers. Here is a brand-new Genesis sedan that challenges the Germans head-on in every area.
The Genesis G80's platform represents a brand-exclusive, third-generation, rear-wheel drive platform with a design that lowers the body and the center of gravity to secure a wider cabin and improved driving stability.
The use of lightweight materials was a distinct focus. Aluminium is used for about 19% of the body, reducing the weight by 125kg compared to the previous model, thus increasing fuel efficiency and performance. (2nd Generation G80 3.3 Gasoline 2WD, 18inch tire=1,910 kg / 3rd Generation G80 2.5 T 2WD, 18inch tire=1,785kg)
Engineered for world markets and customer needs, the Genesis G80 features three Dynamic Powertrains.
- 2.5-liter turbocharged Inline-4: 304 horsepower (PS), 43. 0 kgf·m torque
- 3.5-liter turbocharged V6: 380 horsepower (PS), 54.0 kgf·m torque
- Diesel 2.2-liter Inline-4: 210 horsepower (PS), 45.0 kgf·m torque
And because performance doesn't mean acceleration to everybody, acoustic glass is utilised for the windshield and all doors. Similarly, the G80 features improved door sealing, new engine compartment sound insulation and resonant sound-reducing wheels to ensure indoor quietness and class-leading, low levels of noise (NVH).
In addition, the Electronically Controlled Suspension with Road Preview, enhances ride quality by reducing road impacts using information supplied through the front camera.
If you have the time, take a closer look at a Genesis and Lexus vehicle and feel the quality delivered against its German rivals. – The Vibes, November 12, 2020
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