Genesis G80 RG3 Vinyl Wrap Review — Cost & Results

Genesis G80 RG3 Chrome Delete: A Stylish Paint Alternative

The Genesis G80 RG3 is a car that exudes luxury, but sometimes the factory chrome trim can feel a bit overwhelming or difficult to maintain. Water spots and general grime can accumulate, detracting from the vehicle's sleek appearance. For owners who find the chrome accents too flashy or a hassle to keep clean, a vinyl wrap offers a practical and stylish solution. This review details a specific installation in Korea where the chrome moldings on a Genesis G80 were transformed with a black gloss vinyl wrap, effectively creating a 'blacked-out' look.

Why Consider a Vinyl Wrap for Your G80?

While the G80's design is widely admired, some owners feel the chrome trim clashes with the car's overall aesthetic, especially on darker paint colors. Many newer vehicles offer a 'black package' option from the factory, but this can sometimes limit interior color choices. Opting for a vinyl wrap after purchase provides a flexible way to customize the vehicle's look without permanent modifications. If you're aiming for a more cohesive appearance or simply dislike the glare of chrome, a wrap is a compelling alternative to repainting or living with the factory finish. This particular installation focused on a 'point wrapping' or accent wrap, targeting specific chrome areas rather than a full color change wrap.

3M 2080 Film for a Premium Black Accent Wrap

The Genesis G80 featured in this review received an accent wrap using 3M 2080 series film in a gloss black finish. This material is highly regarded for its durability and the high-quality finish it provides. A key benefit of the 3M 2080 series is the protective film applied during installation, which helps prevent minor scratches and ensures a pristine look post-application. The scope of this specific wrap included:

1. Side window trim
2. Door handles
3. Lower door moldings
4. Fender chrome trim
5. Trunk chrome garnish
6. Partial exhaust tip painting (for enhanced integration)

The result was a sophisticated look that complemented the car's existing paintwork, offering a refined aesthetic that many owners desire.

The Vinyl Wrap Installation Process and Considerations

The installation began with the window trim, progressing to the door handles, lower moldings, and fender trim. A crucial aspect of quality wrap installation is the ability to apply the film in single pieces, even on heavily contoured areas like window trim, to avoid visible seams. This requires significant skill and precision in film cutting and application. While minor imperfections can occur during the wrapping process, the 3M 2080 film's protective layer can be removed to reveal a flawless surface. To maintain the wrap's gloss and longevity, using specialized vinyl wrap wax or ceramic coating is recommended.

A common challenge with vinyl wraps is the potential for edges to lift over time. This is an inherent characteristic of the material, and even expert installations may see minor lifting after a period. It's advisable to avoid installers who use excessive adhesive, as this can complicate future removal. The cost for this specific accent wrap in Korea was under 300,000 KRW (approximately $220 USD at the time of the original article). While this review focuses on an accent wrap, a full color change wrap on a vehicle like the Genesis G80 typically ranges from $2,500 to $5,000 USD in the United States, depending on the film chosen and the complexity of the vehicle.