The Genesis G90 is a stunning S‑Class rival

It’s rather elegant, as three-box saloons can be, as well as a welcome change from the ubiquitous SUV. A rival for cars like the Mercedes S-Class and BMW 7 Series in markets where it will be sold, the G90 impresses for balanced proportions and a stately presence, heralded by a three-dimensional effect shield-like grille which is surely large and grand enough to hold sway in any directors’ car park.

But what about those lights? “Two straight lines” may sound unadventurous in a world increasingly full of bizarrely-shaped LED lights, but executed as finely as this they do enhance the car’s elegance. The twin-line pattern is based on the brand’s emblem and has been seen already in the mid-size G80 model, but the new flagship shows a refined new take on the design.

The super-slim LED lights are eye-catching, particularly when lit up with the two-line repeater lights on the car’s wings. It’s all down to Micro Lens Array (MLA) lighting technology, apparently. The smooth and seamless look around the front is enhanced by a clamshell bonnet.

No word on what it’s like inside but it’s fair to say you can probably expect a cabin dripping in luxury, with lots of space in the back, particularly in the 190mm-longer long-wheelbase version. Nor do we know what’s under then bonnet, though with an all-electric version of the G80 slated for arrival soon, some element of electrification is likely.

With the G70, G80 and GV80 SUV, Genesis is still little known in this country but the road-testers give the cars a thumbs up and prices are pitched on the competitive side. So one day the new G90 flagship might join them and give the Germans some hurry-up.

Meanwhile, if you really do want this alternative to the S-Class, try moving to Seoul, or Sydney or Seattle…