Each new model year of the popular Genesis G80 brings an unusual degree of curiosity to automotive industry influencers and insiders. The company’s previous designs have been brash and traditional by turns, and frequently surprising. In the past few years, Genesis has slowly been transforming the luxury sedan; the G80 has been evolving from derivative upstart into a much more refined expression of European-inspired luxury and taste.

And the 2021 G80 does surprise. The borrowed design language is still there—the upcoming year’s version bears the fluid lines of recent Mercedes-AMG sedans—but Genesis is definitely beginning to carve out its own unique voice. The rear gradient is decidedly fastback.

For 2021, the model’s front end doesn’t look quite as Bentley-inspired as previous incarnations; the shape of its hood appears to be new territory. The ‘Crest’ grille voices Japanese and Western European luxury cars distantly, but the series headlamps, or ‘Quadlamps’, are also unique to Genesis.

In like spirit, the accentuated running lights distinguish the model as a unique roadgoing presence; the concise, glowing lines also give a cohesive visual theme to the model. Genesis isn’t discussing drivetrain info just yet, but the 2021 G80 boasts 20” wheels as standard, and the cabin features a 14.5” infotainment screen, wood accents, and digital instruments, but is generally meditative in spirit.

The new G80 should’ve appeared in Geneva, of course. Hopefully, by the time the New York Auto Show dates roll around in April, things will be back to normal, and we can get a better look at this attractive new addition to the midsize luxury sedan segment.