2024 Genesis G80 vs. 2024 Audi A7 Comparison

The 2024 Genesis G80 is the middle child of the luxury brand’s family of sedans. It’s larger and more expensive than the compact G70 but smaller and less pricey than the full-size G90. Among its many competitors, the G80 is pitched against the sleek Audi A7. This model year, the G80’s most notable update is that all-wheel drive (AWD) is now standard.

Fresh from a subtle cosmetic update this year, this generation of A7 was introduced for the 2019 model year. Known for its swept-back shape and tapering roofline, the A7 has a rear hatchback that opens to reveal a surprisingly large cargo area. Similar to the G80, all-wheel drive is fitted to every A7. 

Want to know how they compare to each other? Let’s examine the highlights of the elegantly proportioned Genesis G80 and Audi A7.

2024 Genesis G80

The 2024 Genesis G80 starts at $55,650, including a $1,250 destination charge. The entry-level powertrain is a 300-horsepower turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine coupled with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The 3.5T variant upgrades that engine to a 375-hp twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6. Another improvement for the 2024 model year is that every G80 now comes with a Wi-Fi hot spot. 

Genesis G80 Highlights

Standard all-wheel drive: This is now standard with every Genesis G80. All-wheel drive enhances traction on both slick and dry roads.

Lexicon audio: Music fans will love the sound quality of this 21-speaker and 1,050-watt audio system. Check under the front seats — that’s where you’ll find subwoofers that handle low-end frequencies.

Highway Driving Assist 2: This partially automated highway driving assist system is fitted to every version of the Genesis G80. It uses safety aids like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist to reduce driver fatigue during long highway treks.

Turn up the heat: The Genesis G80 engineering team must be cold-blooded. Not only are heated seats standard but so are a heated steering wheel and heated second-row seats. Anyone in a cold climate will appreciate these comfort features.

Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the G80 models near you.

2024 Audi A7

One major caveat in this comparison is the starting prices. The Audi A7 commands $73,195, including a $1,195 destination fee. That’s significantly higher than an entry-level Genesis G80, and A7 prices only soar upward when fitting this sleek car with options and more powerful drivetrains. That being said, during many road tests the A7 has routinely left us wanting more time behind the wheel. It’s quick, agile, and has a ride that’s both sporty and comfortable. 

Audi A7 Highlights

Cargo volume: One of the more practical aspects of the A7 is its wide-opening rear hatchback, which swings upward to reveal a lot of cargo volume. Behind the split-folding rear seat back is a trunk measuring almost 25 cubic feet in capacity — nearly double what the Genesis G80 provides. 

S7 and RS 7 models: The base drivetrain in the A7 is a stout 335-hp turbocharged V6 coupled with a 7-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The passing power of this engine will satisfy just about any type of sedan shopper, though Audi goes a couple of steps further. Under the hood of the S7 is a twin-turbocharged 2.9-liter V6 that produces 444 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque. Things only get wilder and more rapid with the RS 7. It packs a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 that generates 621 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. 

Interior quality: Audi’s interiors are masterclasses in refinement and quality. This rings true with the A7. It has logically placed controls, and everything in the cabin looks great and feels built to last. We’ve noted that the dual-screen infotainment system has a learning curve, however. That’s a small quibble in an otherwise exemplary interior.

Bang & Olufsen audio: Like the Genesis G80, Audi offers a fantastic audio system in the A7. In this case, it’s a 17-speaker and 710-watt Bang & Olufsen surround-sound unit. It’s standard starting in the Premium Plus trim, one rung up from the entry-level Premium model.

Check this week’s Fair Purchase Price or see the A7 models near you.

Similarities

The Genesis G80 and Audi A7 are brimming with luxury touches and, in our opinion, have especially eye-catching exteriors. Both are smooth in operation, with quick steering and strong engines that can get them up to speed quickly. 

Conclusion

Technically, in our ranking of the Best Luxury Midsize Cars of 2024, the Audi A7 is perched higher than the Genesis G80. We stand by the numbers: The A7 is an outstanding luxury car that’s both practical and posh. The sporty S7 and RS 7 also happen to be bonkers fast (hey, it’s a technical term). 

That said, the Genesis G80 looks great, is refined and comfortable, and has a starting price well below the Audi A7. It also boasts more comprehensive warranty coverage, which includes three years or 36,000 miles of free scheduled maintenance. Luxury car shoppers who appreciate value and the peace of mind that comes with a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty could end up favoring the Genesis G80.