BMW 5 Series vs Genesis G90

BMW was once known for sports sedans, and the 5 Series was one of the most prolific of those sedans. Sitting between the 3 Series and 7 Series in size and price, previous generations of 5 Series were known for a balance of performance and luxury, with impeccable engineering throughout.

Today, the BMW 5 Series is largely irrelevant. The 3 Series is now so big that there is less reason to upgrade, and most buyers are more interested in SUVs anyway. The competition—including the Audi A6, Jaguar XF, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and Volvo S90—has also gotten better.

That doesn’t mean BMW has given up on the 5 Series. The current generation (codename G30) arrived for the 2017 model year, but it gets a midcycle refresh (or LCI, short for “Life Cycle Impulse,” in BMW speak) for 2021. Major updates include a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, a bigger infotainment touchscreen, and subtle styling changes.

The 2021 BMW 5 Series is not like the 5 Series models of old. That may drive away hardcore car fans, but the 2021 model makes a strong case to new-car buyers, maintaining sportier-than-average driving dynamics, along with the tech and luxury features expected of a car in this segment.

We wouldn’t blame you if you’ve never heard of the Genesis brand before. The luxury spin-off from Hyundai has only been producing cars since 2017, and in 2021, sold under 50,000 units. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have this car company on your radar. Genesis is doing a great job at pushing the design and features envelopes while maintaining some of the most competitive prices in the segment.

Case in point is the 2023 Genesis G90. This represents a major refresh for the sedan, and it’s chock full of more luxury features than the competition. You want massaging seats all the way around? Check. A rear reclining seat with a footrest? Yep, that’s there too. How about a killer Bang & Olufsen stereo system? You got it!