Hyundai aimed to shatter premium automobile paradigms with the North American International Auto Show introduction of its new flagship, the all-new Genesis sports sedan, and they succeeded. With capabilities and features comparable to the world’s leading premium sports sedans, Genesis will arrive at Hyundai dealerships this summer.
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Genesis is built on Hyundai’s all-new, performance-driven rear-wheel-drive architecture. It offers three powertrains, including 3.3-liter and 3.8-liter V6 engines, and Hyundai’s all-new 4.6-liter Tau V8. The Tau will produce an estimated 375 horsepower using premium fuel and 368 horsepower using regular unleaded leading all competitors in specific output with 79.5 to 81.0 horsepower per liter. With technology rivaling more expensive luxury sedans, Genesis showcases features such as XM NavTraffic, Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFLS), Smart Cruise Control, Lexicon® audio systems and electronic active head restraints.
Genesis also delivers spirited performance through its two V6 options — all-aluminum 3.3-liter and 3.8-liter DOHC V6 engines that deliver an estimated 268 horsepower and 233 lb-ft. of torque and an estimated 290 horsepower and 264 lb.-ft. of torque, respectively. To maximize the power spread, the engines utilize Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) on intake and exhaust cam shafts and a new Variable Intake System (VIS) that helps cylinders breathe efficiently at low and high RPM. The better breathing results in outstanding off-the-line acceleration and passing performance, and remarkable fuel efficiency. The V6 engines use an alloy block and cylinder heads for lighter weight and thermal efficiency, and feature timing chains with no scheduled maintenance. Even with their impressive output, all Genesis engines are also environmentally friendly, with all three achieving Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV) certification levels.
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Both Genesis V6 engines use an Aisin 6-speed SHIFTRONIC automatic transmission that features an overdrive lock-up torque converter for improved highway fuel economy. The transmission offers smooth shifts and a wide spread of ratios that ideally suit both engine’s characteristics including a tall-overdrive sixth gear for quiet, efficient highway cruising. Drivers can access the SHIFTRONIC® feature by moving the gear selector into a separate gate. Pushing the selector forward or pulling it rearward will shift the transmission up or down sequentially, adding to driver control. A clear LCD readout on the instrument panel shows the gear that’s in use. The Tau V8 Genesis is mated with an enhanced, high-output ZF 6-speed transmission to handle the added horsepower and torque.
The all-new 2009 Hyundai Genesis is protected by the Hyundai Advantage, America’s Best Warranty™. Coverage includes five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper protection, 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, and seven-year/unlimited mileage anti-perforation coverage. In addition, Genesis buyers receive 24-hour roadside assistance coverage at no extra charge for five years (no mileage limit) and that service includes emergency towing, lockout service and limited coverage for trip-interruption expenses. There is no deductible on any of these coverages.
I think its a nice car, but it does look like a bit like a BMW
I just drove the 4.6 v8 & i must say that it’s amazing. I currently have an e350 merc, and i love it to death, but the hyundai is definitley on top of my list once my lease is up. I was getting on the freeway flooring it & A) got to 100mph ridiculously fast & B) didnt even realize i was doing 100 til the salesmen asked me to slow down. Brilliantly smooth engine, and the fact that it takes “low” grade gas makes it that much better. also, they have this package where they replace all the hyundai emblems with “Genesis” emblems, with wings & all… great marketing ploy in my opinion. Not only does it remove the stigma of a Hyundai for the ignorant, but it looks classier than the italicized “H” anyway. My only serious problem with this car was the damned power steering. It randomly changes how much assistance it gives you, so mid turn the the wheel goes from fingertip light to minicooper heavy. VERY annoying. Living in a beach town i would find that more than irritating coming over the canyon twice a day. However, while just cruising the steering is great, and regardless of the steering, the engine is silky-smooth, and though the suspension is soft & dull the car still handles great and has little roll. Also, the wood trim is, well… very asian. Except for flagship lexus’, most asian cars’ wood trim looks fake or cheap. The genesis definitely follows suit. It doesnt bother me much, but it will some. My other problem, which is easily fixed, is the front grill. I realize that the entire style of the car is very generic and “playing it safe” to get the most buyers possible, but the only thing that makes a statement on this car is the grill, and that statement is “holy hell i’ve just been beaten with an ugly stick!” Its hideous. Period. Though anything more generic would make it boring, this just looks like an angry insect. Petty, but still an issue. All in all, for a car that is 42thou when fully loaded & is perfectly equivalent to a bimmer or benz costing 72+thou, it’s a great car, and a great first try. Also, for 1/2 the price, the steering, wood, and grill are more than made up for. I love this car.