Introduced for 2009, Hyundai’s Genesis full-size sedan aims at established luxury cars like the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class with its rear-wheel-drive layout, available V-8 power and upscale features. Other primary competitors include the Buick Lucerne, Chrysler 300 and Toyota Avalon.
The Hyundai Genesis Coupe, a sportier variant built on the same rear-drive platform, is covered in a separate report in the Cars.com Research section.
New for 2011 The V-8 engine standard in the Genesis 4.6 gains 10 horsepower to 385, and last year’s optional Technology Package is now standard on the Genesis 4.6. Among features now standard on the 4.6 as a result are the navigation system, a 17-speaker surround sound audio system, adaptive high-intensity-discharge headlights and a backup camera.
Exterior The Genesis doesn’t break new ground with its exterior styling, but it manages to look upscale, if a bit conservative. The headlights are angular, like Lexus’, and when viewed from the side, the sedan brings to mind the Infiniti M and BMW 5 Series. Exterior features include:
17- or 18-inch wheels are available
Available adaptive headlights that swivel in the direction of turns
Standard heated mirrors
Standard fog lights
Optional lower bodyside moldings
Interior The influence of the luxury segment can be seen in the design of the Genesis’ cabin. The middle of the dash bulges outward like the one on the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Hyundai has picked up on the German luxury brands’ fascination with integrated control knobs with a system that’s used to operate the available navigation system, among other things. Interior features include:
Standard XM Satellite Radio and Bluetooth cell phone connectivity
Available heated and cooled driver’s seat
Available leather dashboard
Available power sunshade
Under the Hood Genesis buyers have the choice of a V-6 or V-8 engine. The Genesis is rear-wheel drive. Regular gas is recommended for the V-6, but premium is recommended for the V-8. Both engines use a six-speed automatic transmission. Mechanical features include:
290-horsepower, 3.8-liter V-6 that makes 264 pounds-feet of torque
385-hp, 4.6-liter V-8 that makes 333 pounds-feet of torque
Sport-tuned suspension
Safety Standard features include:
Antilock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist
Electronic stability system
Side-impact airbags for the front and rear seats
Side curtain airbags and front active head restraints
Optional front and rear parking sensors and a backup camera
