2015 Hyundai Genesis: Up Close

The Genesis’ new six-sided grille is sure to generate strong opinions. It’s a bold design, and one with a clear connection to Audi’s single-frame grille, which the luxury brand has been using for years. The Genesis’ grille is memorable, for sure, but a little too blocky to be attractive. I also wondered how a front license plate would look, as it seems like it’s bound to cover some of that grille.

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You can call the rear styling attractive, though.

The rear roofline drops elegantly to the trunk lid, and premium-looking taillights finish the design. The available 5.0-liter V-8 has quad exhaust tips, which is a surprising — but cool — addition to this large sedan.

Interior quality seems like a step up and more in line with the car’s luxury aspirations. Real aluminum and wood trim are available, and the latest version of Hyundai’s knob-based control system is present on the center console. The car is roomy, with space to comfortably seat taller adults in the first and second rows at the same time.

A brand’s prestige has always been a factor in the luxury segment, but the definition of luxury is changing, and perhaps that gives Hyundai, a mainstream brand, a shot at capturing a larger part of the market with the new Genesis.

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