Posted on 03/04/2008 5:53:32 PM PST by 2ndDivisionVet
What you are looking at is the physical representation of Hyundai's will to succeed in the U.S., also known as the 2009 Hyundai Genesis. The Korean automaker's first attempt at a rear-wheel-drive luxury sedan will debut in Detroit next week and arrive on our shores later this year (we think) with a price tag that starts below $30,000. As is Hyundai's way, it will feature power, performance and amenities that belie its little price tag.
First, the design. The Genesis sedan has clean lines and uncluttered surfaces that look detailed and, frankly, expensive. Yes, it's derivative. There's a bit of Lexus LS in the headlights, some Infiniti in the profile and rear... you get the idea and can add your own observations in the comments. It's a criticism that's been lobbed at nearly every recent Hyundai design, but it doesn't stick. The design of the Genesis won't offend and it won't excite, and our only major complaint is the grille, which looks too anonymous without a big Hyundai logo front and center.
The Genesis sedan (don't forget about the rear-wheel-drive Genesis Coupe that's coming next) will be available with three engines including the automaker's familiar 3.3L and 3.8L Lambda V6 engines producing 264 HP/233 lb. ft. and 290 HP/264 lb. ft., respectively. The top-shelf motor will be Hyundai's first V8 in the U.S., the 4.6L Tau V8 that produces a healthy 368 HP and 324 lb. ft. of torque. The Tau V8 also gets paired with a ZF 6-speed automatic rather than the Aisin 6-speed autos that are mated to the V6 engines. The V8 also runs on good old fashioned 87 octane unleaded gas, something not all of its competition can claim. 0-60? Well under 6 seconds says Hyundai.
Hyundai also hints that there's room in the V8's block to enlarge its displacement, and that force feeding it some extra air is definitely a possibility. Rounding out the mechanical hardware is an all-independent suspension with five-links front and rear – sophisticated stuff for less than $30k, and we haven't even looked inside yet.
Hyundai has stuffed the Genesis with an alarming amount of high-level standard equipment, including a soft-touch dash, wood accents, Bluetooth, iPod hook ups, a heated and cooled driver's seat, auto windshield defogger and rain-sensing wipers, an ultraviolet reflective steering wheel, power rear sunshade, electronic parking brake, proximity key and a push button starter. Basically, if you were listing this car's standard features out loud to someone, you'd need to take a breath somewhere in the middle.
So what does Hyundai offer as an option on the Genesis? How about a Lexicon audio system? We're told Rolls-Royce is the only other automaker that uses Lexicon stereos. Then there's the 8-inch.. 8-inch!... display for the optional nav system that's controlled via an Audi-like multi-media controller. A backup camera is also available, though this Hyundai won't park itself for you, too. It will keep you from ramming the car ahead with an optional Smart Cruise Control system. XM satellite radio, HD Radio, a 30-gb in-dash hard drive... all available.
So, we leave the 2009 Hyundai Genesis in your hands. What do you think?
No pictures of the engine at the link ...
soon to be seen in a NASCAR race I suppose
~~shudder~~
I’ll be taking a look at one after it’s been out for a couple of years.
Wow.... looks pretty nice.
So far, we’re loving our 2007 Sante Fe. And, we still have 9 years left on the bumper-to-bumper warranty. :-)
Only way for the US to compete with these Asian car companies is to kick the unions “rear” by lowering compensation. US Automakers will never be able to compete when a guy who puts a tire on a car on the line is making $25+/hour.
I drive an ‘06 Camry but have been looking at the Sonata if I could get the right option package lined up (leather with moonroof with alloys with XM.) But the Genesis looks sweet.
My wife - 2007 Sonata
Myself - 2004 Sonata
My daughter - 2006 Sonata
General Motors - Never Again. (I don’t wish to feel like I just spent time in a San Francisco bath house)
GM?? Heck, I gave up on them in 2000, when I bought 2 Toyotas... and Avalon for the wife, and Corolla for me.
Now, I drive the Avalon, my son drives the Corolla.
We wanted to buy a new Avalon last year, but... it was >$36k, and the FULLY loaded Sante Fe was ~ $28k.
Easy call.
For the record.... I had previously driven three Bonnevilles....but, the 2000 models were TOO SMALL.
Rodney Kings upgrade.
...with 22 spinners
Looks like a carbon copy of a Honda Accord, just different badges.
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