Kelley Blue Book: The 2022 Genesis G80 and the BMW 5 Series—two luxury sedans compared

Below average: No hybrid option; brand cachet.

Consensus: Offering a comprehensive standard equipment list, a roomy cabin, and a choice of powerful engines, the 2022 Genesis G80 makes a case for itself as a contender in the midsize luxury sedan segment. It still does not have the brand recognition of some competitors, if that matters to you.

2022 BMW 5 Series

2022 BMW 5 Series starting price: $54,200

Above average: Choice of engines, including plug-in hybrid; optional all-wheel drive; high-performance M5 variants.

Below average: Gets expensive quickly, particularly for higher trims.

Consensus: Among luxury sedans, the 2022 BMW
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5 Series is definitely a driver’s car. It has a choice of engines, and everything about it is responsive and enjoyable. It offers several M versions, including a limited edition for this year only, although prices rise meteorically.

G80 vs. 5 Series: grace and power

Genesis G80

Now in its second generation, the Genesis G80 continues to impress with a load of standard features, a beautiful cabin, and a choice of powerful engines, all at a starting price thousands below that of many of its competitors.

Power comes from either a 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder in the base model, connected via an 8-speed automatic to the rear wheels or (for $3,150) to all four. The 2.5T is pleasant and comfortable, although not terribly sporty. That job goes to the 3.5T, whose 375 hp comes via a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 with AWD. To go along with that extra thrust, the 3.5T also gets bigger brakes, a sport-tuned adaptive suspension, and now this year, optional rear-wheel steering for even tighter handling. Other differences between the two are the size of wheels, and the 3.5T actually having a slightly different front and rear look as well.

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Inside, the cabin is comfortable and plush, with simulated leather and soft-touch plastics, as well as a feeling of quiet and insulation. Front and center is a massive 14.5-inch touchscreen with satellite radio, Apple
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CarPlay/Android Auto integration, and a 12-speaker audio system. Next to that is an 8-inch instrument cluster that can be upgraded to a 12.3-inch digital screen in the 3.5T. A comprehensive set of driver assistance features includes forward-collision avoidance with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, front and rear parking sensors, and adaptive cruise control.

The upper trim brings not only the performance goodies but leather upholstery, panoramic roof, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, wireless phone charging, 360-degree camera system, and a 21-speaker/1,050-watt Lexicon audio system.

BMW 5 Series

Among luxury sedans, the 2022 BMW 5 Series is the most engaging and the most fun to drive. Steering is crisp and precise, handing is controlled, and it offers a choice of strong engines. Among them is a plug-in hybrid that offers up to 21 miles of pure electric range.

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At the top of the lineup are three different variations from BMW’s high-performance M division, with different suspension, brakes, and twin-turbo V8 engines, but the prices can reach well past $100K. Plenty of luxury sedans focus on comfort and smoothing out the bumps. The 5 Series is for people who love driving.

Once inside, the driver is greeted with 16-way power-adjustable front seats or optionally, 20-way multi-contour seats. Outward vision is good, and the materials are all high quality, with standard simulated leather and either synthetic or real leather on the dash, with twin 12.3-inch screens for driver information and infotainment. Along with those screens come Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration, navigation, satellite radio, voice control, two USB ports, and a 205-watt/10-speaker audio system.

Standard safety features in all 5 Series include forward-collision warning with low-speed automatic emergency braking, active blind-spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-departure warning.

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Besides its twin-turbo V8 and standard all-wheel drive, the M550i xDrive adds leather upholstery, heated and 20-way adjustable front seats, and Harman Kardon surround-sound system. Performance enhancements include a sport differential, adaptive suspension, sport-tuned transmission, uprated brakes, and aerodynamics package.

Similarities

Choice of engines; optional all-wheel drive; good standard equipment.

2022 Genesis G80 advantages

Lower starting price; long warranty; base power; front and rear legroom.

2022 BMW 5 Series advantages

Fuel economy; larger trunk; high-performance M variants; brand cachet.

Which one is right for me?

Among luxury sedans, the 2022 Genesis G80 is making headway in a very competitive segment for good reason. It is motivated by a choice of powerful engines, is well-appointed with luxury features inside, has handsome looks, and is competitively priced.

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As a driver’s car, the 2022 BMW 5 Series is about providing an experience for the driver. The front seat is the best place to be, with a focused cockpit, responsive steering, powerful engines, and a suspension that reads the road.

Compare the specs:

This story originally ran on KBB.com.