A report
from Autoreview.ru says the G80 is coming to Russia with a 2.0-liter
turbo engine and all-wheel drive. The G4KL approved for the car is the
same as the one on the Genesis Coupe. Two different tunes will be
offered, packing 197 and 245 horsepower. In both cases, torque will sit at 353
Nm.
An 8-speed automatic will be standard, but customers
will be given the opportunity to pick between rear and all-wheel drive.
Deliveries will start in March, only the 245 horsepower model
will be available.
Using a 2.0-liter turbo is not what you'd call a
controversial decision. The report says that 70% of BMW 5 Series buyers opt for
this type of engine, while in the case of the Audi A6, the number jumps to 82%.
We think that refers to Russia, although the same could be true across Europe.
We're seeing the same kind of decision from sister
brand Kia, which launched the GT Stinger and
is adding a 2.2-liter diesel for the Old Continent. Back at home in Korea, it's
not that rare to see luxury cars running four-bangers and even LPG.
Currently, the 3-liter Genesis stickers for
2,329,000 in Russia, which is a mere 700,000 rubles more than a Kia Optima. The downsized G80 could be a downsized luxury car bargain if the Russians are
willing to look past the badge.