Genesis G80

Importing a used Genesis G80 from the USA

Genesis built its reputation in the United States before the brand had any real presence in Europe, which is why the American used market is one of the few places you can find a broad choice of well-specified G80 executive saloons. If you want to import a used Genesis G80 from the USA, USCar Trader handles the process as an independent broker: we locate the car, arrange inspection, and manage shipping and clearance without holding stock or adding a dealer markup.

The G80 is a full-size luxury sedan that undercuts the German establishment on equipment while matching much of the polish. Here is what you need to know before importing one.

From launch to today

The G80 name arrived in 2017 when Hyundai's Genesis line spun off into a standalone brand; that first G80 was essentially the second-generation Hyundai Genesis (chassis code DH) rebadged, sold through the 2020 model year. The car most buyers want is the second-generation G80 (RG3), all-new for the 2021 model year, riding on a rear-drive luxury platform shared with the GV80 SUV. The RG3 brought the brand's signature two-line lighting, the crest grille, a 14.5-inch widescreen infotainment display and a far more distinctive design inside and out. A fully electric Electrified G80 joined the range for 2022 in some US markets.

Engines and drivetrain in detail

First-generation G80 buyers chose between a 3.8-litre naturally aspirated V6 (311 hp), a 3.3-litre twin-turbo V6 in the G80 Sport (365 hp) and, at the top, the 5.0-litre Tau V8 with 420 hp. The second-generation RG3 simplified the lineup to a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder (300 hp) and a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 (375 hp). Both use an eight-speed automatic. Rear-wheel drive is standard, with Genesis's HTRAC all-wheel drive widely optioned, which is the version most German winters will favour. The Electrified G80 pairs dual motors with a large battery for all-wheel drive and rapid charging.

Trim levels and variants

The G80 is offered only as a four-door sedan. US trim structures centred on well-equipped Advanced and Prestige packages on the RG3, bundling features such as the Nappa leather seating, a 21-speaker Lexicon sound system, heated and ventilated front and rear seats, a head-up display and adaptive suspension. Because Genesis positioned itself as a value luxury brand in America, even mid-tier cars carry equipment that would sit on the options list of a comparable European saloon.

Used availability in the USA

The G80 sells in solid volume in the States, so lease returns and one-owner cars appear regularly at two to four years old with sensible mileage. First-generation cars are older and cheaper to buy but less distinctive; the 2021-onward RG3 is the one that turns heads. Sourcing from drier states helps avoid the corrosion issues that plague salted-road cars. Every G80 we handle is a used vehicle, and we never describe one as new.

When importing makes sense

A G80 import suits the buyer who wants a genuinely different executive saloon, with a long warranty history and generous equipment, without paying German-premium money for German-premium badges. It is especially attractive if you specifically want the twin-turbo V6 or a loaded Prestige spec, both of which are far more common in the US than anywhere in Europe.

Facts and figures

Reliability and common problems

Genesis has earned strong reliability scores, and the G80 is generally a dependable car, but a few issues recur in owner reports. Twelve-volt battery drain and parasitic electrical draw affect some cars left standing, a common complaint on the feature-rich RG3. Early second-generation infotainment and software occasionally needed dealer updates. The twin-turbo V6 is robust but wants clean, on-schedule oil changes to protect the turbochargers. Some owners note wind noise and minor interior rattles. Brake and tyre wear on the heavier AWD cars is normal for the class. On G80 reliability the honest summary is: a well-maintained example is low-drama, but confirm the software is current and the battery healthy.

How US versions differ

US G80s use amber rear turn signals, mph speedometers and North American navigation and telematics that will not fully function here. Headlight beam patterns differ, and a switchable rear fog lamp, mandatory in Germany, may need adding. Radio bands and connected-services features are configured for the US. These are standard conversion points for the individual approval.

From US purchase to registration

Select the car; verify the VIN, title and build plant; place your funds in secure escrow rather than paying a private seller directly; arrange inland haulage and ocean freight to a port such as Bremerhaven; clear customs; present the car for TÜV and individual approval (Einzelabnahme) with any modifications; then register it. USCar Trader keeps these stages coordinated end to end.

Costs, duty and taxes at a glance

Key point: duty depends on the plant of build; only a VIN check secures the 0% rate. Import VAT of 19% applies regardless.

Import duty depends on where the G80 was actually built. The 0% EU preference under Regulations (EU) 2026/1455 and 2026/1461, in force since 1 July 2026 for directly transported vehicles, applies only when US origin is provable by VIN and plant. The G80 is built in Ulsan, South Korea, so it is not US-origin and the standard passenger-car duty of 10% generally applies. In addition, and always, the 19% German import VAT (Einfuhrumsatzsteuer) is charged on the customs value. We list these separately and never advertise a duty-free import.

TÜV, approval and license plates

Typical work covers lighting adaptation, adding or converting a rear fog lamp, and confirming the odometer and speedometer meet requirements. The individual approval checks the car's identity and emissions documentation. After TÜV clearance, registration follows the normal import route.

Pre-purchase checklist

Match the VIN to the title and to the car. Obtain a full Carfax or AutoCheck report for accidents, title brands and service. Inspect underbody and wheel arches for corrosion. Confirm turbo-relevant oil-service records on V6 cars. Test the 12-volt system and battery health. Verify all infotainment and driver-assist features work. Insist on a clean, transferable title before funds move.

Import FAQ

Does a US Genesis G80 get 0% import duty?

No. The G80 is built in South Korea, so it is not US-origin; the standard 10% car duty applies. The 19% import VAT applies regardless.

Which G80 should I import?

The 2021-on RG3 is the car to have. The 3.5T twin-turbo V6 offers the most performance; the 2.5T four is the efficient choice.

Is the Genesis G80 reliable?

Generally yes. Keep software current, watch 12-volt battery drain, and maintain turbo oil changes on the V6.

Can I import the Electrified G80 EV?

Where available on the US market, yes. It imports like the petrol cars, subject to the same duty, VAT and approval steps.

How long will the import take?

Expect several weeks from purchase through freight, clearance and TÜV to registration, depending on schedules.

Do I pay VAT if duty is charged?

Yes. The 19% import VAT is separate from and additional to the customs duty.

Is USCar Trader a dealer?

No. We are an independent broker for used US vehicles, with no manufacturer partnership and no hidden margin.

Browse the full Genesis in the Carhub, compare the smaller Genesis G70 and flagship Genesis G90, or cross-shop the BMW 5 Series. You can also see current G80 listings.