Genesis G80 RG3 Surround View Camera Review

Is a Surround View Camera Worth It for Your Genesis G80 RG3?

Many Genesis G80 RG3 facelift owners find themselves wishing they had opted for certain factory-installed options, especially those that enhance parking convenience and safety. The Surround View Monitor (SVM), often referred to as a 360 camera or bird's-eye view camera, is a highly sought-after feature. This review delves into the necessity, installation process, and overall value of retrofitting an OEM surround view camera system onto your G80 RG3, based on real-world Korean installation cases.

In the Genesis G80 RG3 facelift models, the SVM option is now integrated with other advanced driver-assistance systems. This means that if you want the 360-degree camera view, you'll typically need to also install the Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM) and the Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA2). While this might increase the initial surround cost, it offers a comprehensive upgrade to your vehicle's parking and maneuvering capabilities. The SVM provides a comprehensive view of your car's surroundings on the navigation screen, the BVM displays real-time side and rear camera feeds on the instrument cluster when you signal, and RSPA2 allows for remote parking using your smart key.

Before and After: Enhanced Visibility and Functionality

Before the retrofit, a Genesis G80 RG3 without the factory surround view option might appear visually incomplete. You'd notice the absence of a front grille camera, and the side mirrors would lack the integrated camera lenses. Similarly, parking sensors might be missing from the vehicle's exterior. Inside, the smart key wouldn't have the RSPA button, and the infotainment system's parking display would be limited, typically showing only the rear camera view when reversing. After the installation, the exterior gains the subtle yet functional camera lenses and sensors. More importantly, the interior transforms with the activation of the surround view monitor, offering a clear, bird's-eye perspective of the car's environment. The instrument cluster will now display the BVM feed when turn signals are activated, and the RSPA functionality becomes available via the smart key.

Installation Process: OEM Parts and Precision Coding

The installation process for a surround view camera retrofit on a Genesis G80 RG3 utilizes genuine OEM parts to ensure seamless integration and functionality. The procedure involves carefully mounting the necessary cameras and sensors onto the vehicle's exterior, including the front grille, side mirrors, and rear bumper. In some cases, minor bumper modifications might be required to accommodate the sensors, or a bumper with pre-drilled holes might be used. Following the physical installation, a crucial step is the vehicle's coding. This process integrates the new components into the car's existing electronic systems, activating the surround view monitor, BVM, and RSPA features within the infotainment and instrument cluster displays. The entire process typically takes around 3 to 4 hours to complete.

The surround cost in Korea for this comprehensive upgrade, including SVM, BVM, and RSPA2, can vary based on the specific vehicle condition and any additional options chosen. While a precise USD equivalent isn't fixed due to fluctuating exchange rates and market variations, it represents a significant investment in enhancing your G80's utility and driving experience.