The Hyundai Genesis was first revealed for the 2009 model year and is based on an all-new rear-wheel-drive
architecture. The Genesis represents its biggest foray yet and is the company's most
expensive and most luxurious car. Hyundai advertises this as a sports sedan - it has a rigid structure and advanced front and rear suspensions.
2009 Hyundai Genesis Exterior
On the new Genesis, the headlights are angular, like a luxury model, and the silhouette also brings other luxury models to mind. Wheels are available in either 17- or 18-inch sizes. Halogen headlights are standard, and the Technology
Package includes auto-leveling high-intensity discharge adaptive headlights that
point into turns to improve night-time vision on dark corners. A lower fascia flanked by dual exhaust gives a hint
to the Genesis's sporty character.
Powering the '09 Genesis
The Genesis proved
to be a capable handler, a viable match for the Mercedes. The Genesis 3.8 V6 is
lighter and has a 52/48 weight balance (compared to 53/47 for the 4.6 V8),
making it easier to rotate through high-speed corners than the Genesis 4.6 or
the Mercedes.
Hyundai Genesis Cabin '09
The cabin of the Genesis is nicely appointed, with
chrome accents, wood and aluminum trim, and soft-touch materials. Easy-to-read
electroluminescent gauges greet the driver, and the available navigation system
includes voice activation and a multimedia interface that is easier to use than
those from most luxury manufacturers. Room in the front and rear seats is
excellent. The Genesis has plenty of interior room, and is nicely appointed. The navigation option
features a central multimedia controller for the radio, navigation system, iPod
interface, trip computer, Bluetooth phone, and settings in the Driver
Information System. Front and rear head and leg room are plentiful.
09 Genesis Lineup
The 2009 Hyundai Genesis is offered in two models, the 3.8 and the 4.6. The 3.8 offers the following standard features: dual-zone automatic climate control, tilt/telescoping leather wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, leather, four-way power-adjustable passenger seat, power windows and locks, Bluetooth, eight-way power adjustable driver's seat with lumbar adjustment, heated power mirrors, keyless entry, XM satellite radio, auto-dimming rearview mirrors, alloy wheels, and universal garage door opener.
Genesis 4.6 adds rain sensing wipers, wood and leather-wrapped power tilt/telescoping steering wheel, sunroof, and power rear sunshade.
Conclusions
The 2009 Hyundai Genesis gives buyers a lot of bang for the buck. It is loaded with standard features and is a very capable sporty sedan. With lots of interior room, a smooth drive and great fuel economy, it's a value-laden proposition. "Hyundai cleared the fence with the Genesis. The high level
of quality, refinement and performance of our top-of-the-line 4.6L V8 test car
amazed everyone who has sat behind its wheel." says Road
and Track Genesis customers can choose between
the capable 3.8 model that provides better handling and fuel economy or a
quicker 4.6 model that has better steering but pushes a little more in fast
turns.
*Portions of this review were obtained from NewCarTestDrive.com.