18 MPG combined isn’t a bragging point for the 2020 Genesis G90 AWD 5.0L 8-cyl, and Genesis knows it. This flagship sedan isn’t about squeezing every last mile from a gallon; it’s about delivering a supremely comfortable, quiet, and luxurious experience, and the strong V8 is central to that mission. The G90 5.0L caters to a specific buyer: someone who prioritizes opulent space, smooth power delivery, and advanced technology over outright fuel efficiency. They’re willing to trade trips to the pump for the satisfying surge of a naturally aspirated V8 engine and the feeling of understated elegance this car exudes. These buyers view fuel cost as a secondary or tertiary consideration, well below the overall value of the G90.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2020 Genesis G90 AWD 5.0L provide a clearer picture of its fuel consumption in different driving scenarios. In the city, expect around 15 MPG. This reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the big V8 spends more time idling and accelerating from a standstill. On the open highway, the G90 fares better, achieving approximately 23 MPG. The car’s smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission and relatively aerodynamic design help optimize fuel economy at higher, consistent speeds. Again, these figures aren’t class-leading, but represent fair economy for a vehicle of this size and performance.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2020 Genesis G90 AWD 5.0L is $3,200. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and assumes the national average fuel price for premium gasoline. Keep in mind that your actual fuel costs may vary based on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the specific proportion of city versus highway driving you do. Buyers should also remember that premium fuel is recommended, and often required, for optimal engine performance.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, real-world MPG for the G90 5.0L tends to land close to the official numbers, but with some deviation depending on driving style. Drivers with a heavier foot, who frequently exploit the V8’s power, will likely see figures on the lower end of the spectrum. Conversely, more conservative drivers who prioritize smooth acceleration and anticipate traffic flow may be able to nudge the numbers slightly higher. The AWD system also plays a role; while it provides enhanced traction and stability, it also adds weight and slight driveline drag, which can impact fuel efficiency.

How it compares

The G90’s fuel economy places it in direct competition with other large, luxurious sedans boasting powerful engines. For example, the BMW 750i xDrive, equipped with a 4.4L V8, achieves an EPA-estimated 17 MPG combined. The Mercedes-Benz S560 4MATIC, featuring a similar V8 engine, posts a nearly identical 19 MPG combined. The Audi A8, typically using a turbocharged V6 in its base configuration, offers better fuel economy around 22 MPG combined in that configuration, but choosing the available V8 puts its fuel economy in a similar range to the Genesis. While some plug-in hybrid versions of these competitors provide superior fuel economy numbers on paper, those aren’t truly direct competitors to the G90 5.0, as they offer a drastically different driving experience. Someone considering all Genesis fuel economy data already knows the tradeoff; they’re choosing a powerful, naturally-aspirated V8 for its responsiveness and smooth power delivery, even if it means sacrificing some efficiency. To compare G90 MPG across all years, research is always recommended.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the G90 5.0L isn’t inherently designed for optimal fuel economy, there are steps you can take to minimize fuel consumption. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. This is generally good driving advice, but it’s especially relevant for a large sedan with a powerful engine. Smooth, gradual transitions will help you keep the engine in its most efficient operating range.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb or in the owner’s manual.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo in the trunk adds weight, which negatively impacts fuel economy, so remove any items that aren’t essential, especially heavy objects. Also make sure your roof rack is empty.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed helps optimize fuel efficiency. Cruise control minimizes unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, which can waste fuel. However, be mindful when using cruise control in hilly terrain, as the system may downshift aggressively to maintain your set speed, potentially increasing fuel consumption.