18 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel economy awards and it’s certainly not the primary reason anyone chooses the 2021 Genesis G90 AWD with the 5.0L V8. This flagship sedan prioritizes opulence, a quiet ride, and a commanding presence over saving money at the gas station. For the executive or customer who values chauffeured comfort and effortless power, fuel consumption is simply a cost of doing business.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the G90 AWD 5.0L V8 achieves 16 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the engine’s thirst during stop-and-go traffic, a common reality for G90 owners navigating urban centers. The highway number, while better, still trails competitors. This disparity highlights the engine’s preference for consistent cruising rather than constant acceleration. The eight-speed automatic transmission is generally smooth; however, it is tuned more for comfort than ultimate efficiency. Drivers should also be aware that aggressive acceleration will penalize fuel economy significantly, due to the engine’s displacement and naturally aspirated nature.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Genesis G90 AWD 5.0L V8 at $3,200. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that premium fuel is recommended for optimal performance, so this could increase depending on driving habits and current gas prices. While this figure might seem alarming to some, buyers in this segment are typically less sensitive to fluctuations in fuel costs, as they factor this expense into the overall cost of ownership for a top-tier luxury vehicle.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized measure, real-world fuel economy often deviates. Driving style, traffic conditions, and even tire pressure can have a considerable impact. G90 owners who prioritize a smooth and steady driving experience may find themselves closer to the EPA estimates. However, those who frequently exploit the V8’s power will likely see numbers closer to the city rating, or even below. Cold weather can also negatively impact fuel economy, meaning drivers in northern climates might experience lower averages during winter months.

How it compares

The G90’s fuel economy lags behind some of its rivals. For instance, the Lexus LS 500 AWD, with its turbocharged V6, manages a combined 21 MPG. The BMW 750i xDrive, boasting a turbocharged V8, achieves around 20 MPG combined. Even the Mercedes-Benz S560 4MATIC, with a similar V8, fares slightly better. This difference matters to buyers who want to minimize operating expenses, even at the premium end of the market. However, buyers who prefer the G90’s distinct styling, longer warranty, and potentially lower initial price might see fuel economy as an acceptable trade-off. View G90 MPG across all years to see how the figures change over time.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and smooth braking are key to maximizing fuel economy in the G90. Avoid sudden bursts of speed and anticipate traffic flow to minimize unnecessary braking. The large V8 engine responds well to a light foot, and progressive acceleration will help keep the engine in its most efficient range.

Ensure the tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Regularly check the tire pressure and adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended settings, which can typically be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine run unnecessarily wastes fuel. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Starting the car consumes less fuel than prolonged idling, especially with modern engine technology.

Combine trips whenever possible. Starting a cold engine consumes more fuel than running a warm one. By grouping errands into a single outing, you can reduce the number of cold starts and improve overall fuel efficiency. This simple strategy can make a noticeable difference over time.

Consider the drive mode. Most G90 models offer different drive modes, including an “Eco” or “Comfort” setting. Selecting this mode can alter the engine’s mapping and transmission shift points to prioritize fuel efficiency over performance. This may result in slightly less responsive acceleration, but it can help save fuel during everyday driving. Find all Genesis fuel economy data on our site.