Jerry Robbin

The all-new Genesis is an upscale luxury car that Hyundai introduced for 2009. It’s the first rear-drive sedan Hyundai has ever produced with an optional V-8 engine and the their first real luxury sedan.  Some of its competitors for size are the more expensive BMW 550i and the Mercedes-Benz E550, but the Genesis V8 is priced thousands of dollars below these competitors.

Hyundai is definitely moving upscale with the luxury model Genesis and has proved that they are capable of creating an upscale vehicle.

Inside 

The interior of the Genesis makes a statement, which is pure luxury! 

The seating is comfortable and there is enough room for 5 adults in the front and back seats.  The fit and finish, stitching, materials, and integration are superlative. 

All Genesis models have standard leather seating, and there is an upgrade option for all V6s with the Premium Package (V8s come standard with the upgraded leather upholstery that includes stitched and padded leather across the dash and along the upper door panels). Standard power adjustment and available power tilt and telescopic steering wheel make it easy to find a comfortable position. 

Technology Package includes a navigation system, a rearview camera, front and rear parking sensors, a hard drive for storing digital music files, steering-linked Xenon headlights, and a cooled driver seat (Why the drivers seat only?). 

Technology package adds a 528-watt, 17-speaker, 7.1 surround-sound system, with an HD radio tuner and XM satellite radio, a six-CD changer.  The sound from the stereo system is like being at a concert.

The interior is generally quiet. Engine and wind noise are minimal, but the sound was exceptionally clear. Satellite radio is standard and high-definition radio is available.

There are plenty of cup holders, which have become a standard to evaluate a vehicle in today’s marketplace. All the controls are easy to reach and easy to understand.

Safety Features:

Driver Airbag, Passenger Airbag, Passenger Air Bag Cutoff Switch/Sensor,

Front Side Airbag, Second Row Side Airbag, Side Head Curtain Airbags, Side Guard Door Beams, Child Safety Door Locks, Trunk Anti-Trap Device, AB with Electronic Brake Force Distribution and Assist, Electronic Stability Control with Traction Control System, Electrononic Front Active Head Restraints, Tire Pressure Monitoring System and Illuminated Scuff Plates.

Driving and Handling

Our Genesis came equipped with the V8, which is mated, to a 6-speed automatic transmission with manual shift gate. The Genesis can propel from 0-60 in approximately 5.7 seconds. And has plenty of power for any road conditions.

The new Genesis has a sophisticated, five-link front and rear suspension. The suspension works well, providing a firm but comfortable ride. Genesis’s steering is well weighted and precise. Cornering grip and balance are good.  The V8 Genesis comes standard with 18″ wheels. Genesis rides on a 115.6-inch wheelbase and has an overall length of 196 inches, measurements that put it firmly in the large-car category. 

Under the hood

Under the hood you get your choice of a 4.6-liter V8 or 3.8-liter V6. My test drive came equipped with the potent V8 that has 375 HP, which requires premium fuel.  The V8 will get 17 city 25 MPG highway driving. which is respectable for a large vehicle.

Design 

The Genesis has a European styling, which does have its own personality (especially the grill) The Genesis is pleasant to look at and definitely says luxury.

Overall 

I was definitely impressed with the Genesis quality, fit, ride, handling and design

I couldn’t find many flaws or things missing from the Genesis. 

Genesis is a strong contender in the $33,000 to $42,000 large sedan market. It seems well built and demonstrates sophisticated engineering. It is quick, comfortable, and luxurious.