The Hyundai G90, the flagship sedan of the Korean automaker, represents a significant step into the luxury car market. Choosing the right year model can significantly impact your ownership experience, ensuring you get the most value, reliability, and features for your investment. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the G90's model years, highlighting the best options and potential pitfalls to avoid.

Hyundai G90 Model Year Analysis: A Quick Reference

Model Year Key Highlights & Improvements Potential Issues & Considerations
2017 First generation launch, refined ride comfort, abundant standard features, competitive pricing. Early production quirks, potential for infotainment glitches.
2018 Minor updates, improved driver assistance systems. Same potential infotainment issues as 2017.
2019 Significant mid-cycle refresh: new exterior design, updated interior, enhanced technology. More expensive than pre-facelift models.
2020 Continued refinement of the 2019 facelift. Similar potential repair costs to 2019 models.
2021 Limited changes from 2020. None reported beyond typical wear and tear.
2023 Second generation launch: completely redesigned exterior and interior, new technology, improved performance. Higher price point, potential for early adopter issues.
2024 Continued refinement of the second generation model. Limited long-term reliability data.

Detailed Explanations of Each Model Year

2017: The Genesis of Luxury

The 2017 Hyundai G90 marked Hyundai's serious entry into the luxury sedan segment. It offered a smooth, comfortable ride, a spacious and well-appointed interior, and a comprehensive suite of standard features that rivaled established luxury brands. Power came from either a 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6 or a 5.0-liter V8 engine, both offering ample power and refinement. While generally reliable, some owners reported minor infotainment system glitches, which were often addressed by software updates. This model year is a great value if you're looking for a luxurious experience on a budget.

2018: Incremental Improvements

The 2018 G90 saw minor updates and improvements to its driver assistance systems. Hyundai continued to refine the car's ride quality and interior amenities. The engine options remained the same as the 2017 model. The 2018 model year offers a similar experience to the 2017, with potentially slightly more refined driver-assistance features.

2019: A Mid-Cycle Masterpiece

The 2019 G90 received a significant mid-cycle refresh, boasting a completely redesigned exterior with a bold new grille, updated headlights and taillights, and a more modern overall appearance. The interior also received updates, including a redesigned dashboard and infotainment system. The powertrain options remained the same, but the driving dynamics were further refined. This is where Hyundai truly stepped up the G90's presence. The 2019 model is a strong contender for the best year, offering a blend of updated styling, improved technology, and established reliability.

2020: Continued Refinement

The 2020 G90 continued the refinements introduced in the 2019 model year. Hyundai focused on enhancing the car's comfort and convenience features. No major mechanical changes were made. The 2020 model offers a similar experience to the 2019, making it a solid choice for buyers seeking the updated styling and technology.

2021: Minimal Changes, Solid Choice

The 2021 G90 saw limited changes from the 2020 model year. This can be seen as both a positive and negative; while there weren't any groundbreaking improvements, it also means that Hyundai had ironed out most of the kinks from the previous years. It's a reliable choice for someone who values consistency and a proven track record.

2023: A Bold Second Generation

The 2023 G90 marked the arrival of the second generation, representing a complete redesign from the ground up. It features a striking new exterior design, a luxurious and technologically advanced interior, and a new powertrain option: a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 with an available 48V mild-hybrid system. The second-generation G90 elevates the luxury experience to a new level. While offering the latest technology and design, it's important to consider that it's a relatively new model, and long-term reliability data is still emerging. It's also the most expensive option.

2024: Refining the New Standard

The 2024 G90 continues to build upon the foundation laid by the second-generation model. Expect minor refinements and potential updates to technology and features. As with the 2023 model, long-term reliability data is still limited. This model represents the pinnacle of the G90's current offering, but comes with the highest price tag and the inherent risks of a newer model.

Potential Issues and Considerations: A Deeper Dive

  • Infotainment System Glitches (2017-2018): Some early G90 models experienced occasional infotainment system glitches, such as freezing or slow response times. These issues were often addressed with software updates. Before purchasing a used 2017 or 2018 model, it's advisable to check if the latest software updates have been installed.

  • Air Suspension Issues (Potential): While not widespread, some luxury sedans with air suspension systems can experience issues over time, such as leaks or compressor failures. This can be a costly repair. Thoroughly inspect the air suspension system during a pre-purchase inspection.

  • High Repair Costs (General): As a luxury vehicle, the G90 can have higher repair costs compared to non-luxury vehicles. Parts and labor can be more expensive. It's important to factor in potential maintenance and repair costs when considering a G90.

  • Early Adopter Issues (2023-2024): With the complete redesign of the second-generation G90, there's a potential for early adopter issues, such as software bugs or unexpected component failures. While Hyundai has a reputation for reliability, it's always wise to be cautious with newly redesigned models.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Hyundai G90 year is the most reliable?

Based on available data, the 2021 model year is often cited as one of the most reliable due to its limited changes and proven track record.

What is the best year for the Hyundai G90 in terms of value?

The 2019 model offers a great balance of updated styling, improved technology, and established reliability at a potentially lower price point than the newer models.

What are the potential problems with the 2017-2018 Hyundai G90?

Some owners have reported infotainment system glitches in the 2017 and 2018 models.

Is the second-generation (2023-2024) Hyundai G90 worth the price?

If you prioritize the latest technology, luxurious features, and a bold new design, the second-generation G90 is worth considering, but be prepared for a higher price tag and potential early adopter issues.

What should I look for when buying a used Hyundai G90?

Thoroughly inspect the car's maintenance records, check for any signs of damage or wear, and have a mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection.

Does the G90 have air suspension?

Yes, the G90 features an electronically controlled air suspension system designed for a smooth and comfortable ride.

How does the G90 compare to other luxury sedans?

The G90 offers a competitive package of luxury, features, and performance at a typically lower price point than established luxury brands.

Conclusion

Choosing the best year for your Hyundai G90 depends on your individual needs and budget. The 2019 model offers a compelling blend of updated styling and established reliability, while the 2023 and 2024 models provide the latest technology and a luxurious experience. Always prioritize a thorough inspection and consider potential maintenance costs to ensure a satisfying ownership experience.