Overview & Reviews

In the case of the Hyundai brand, necessity has been the mother of reinvention. Ten years ago, Hyundai was little more than the punch line to jokes about low-quality cars with laughable reliability. If the brand was to survive in the increasingly competitive automotive marketplace, it needed a major-league makeover. Hyundai has accomplished exactly that in recent years, turning out vehicles that have been hailed as paragons of value-priced quality.

This reinvention scales new heights with the Hyundai Genesis, the manufacturer's first stab at the luxury car market. Quiet as a murmur and drenched in luxury, it offers genuine opulence at an unbelievably low price, and credibly competes with premium sedans by Acura, Cadillac, Infiniti and Lexus. If you're in the market for a luxury sedan and want to savor all the bells and whistles without cleaning out your kids' college funds, take a look at the impressive Hyundai Genesis.

Current Hyundai Genesis
The Hyundai Genesis is offered in two trims, 3.8 and 5.0 R-Spec, which take their names from their corresponding engines. The 3.8 model is powered by a 3.8-liter V6 good for 333 horsepower and 291 pound-feet of torque, while the 5.0 R-Spec model upgrades to a 5.0-liter V8 that produces 429 hp and 376 lb-ft of torque. All models are rear-wheel drive and use an eight-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control.

Even in base 3.8 trim, the Genesis offers high-end features like dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth, leather upholstery, heated front seats and a seven-speaker sound system with satellite radio and iPod compatibility. Options include 18-inch wheels, upgraded leather, adaptive cruise control, a rearview camera, a 14-speaker audio system and a navigation system. The V8-powered Genesis 5.0 R-Spec includes everything that's optional on the 3.8 as well as 19-inch alloy wheels and sport-tuned suspension and steering.

On the outside, the Hyundai Genesis looks the part of a luxury sedan, with elegant sheet metal and superb build quality. This air of sophistication continues inside, where you'll find yourself swaddled in soft-touch surfaces and high-quality materials. Roominess is another of its strengths, as both front and rear passengers enjoy spacious accommodations and well-shaped seats.

In reviews, we've found that the Genesis is very quiet on the highway. It glides over practically any surface with unruffled composure, effortlessly dispensing with bumps and ruts. Power from the V6 is ample and refined, while the V8 provides effortless acceleration and sewing-machine smoothness with only a minimal penalty at the pump.

The 3.8 won't deliver the sport-sedanlike handling that some European rivals tout. For that, there is the 5.0 R-Spec, which provides sharper handling in the curves, though this comes at the expense of comfort. The sport-tuned suspension is significantly stiffer, adding considerable harshness over rough pavement.

If you frequently haul outsized loads, you may long for a folding rear seat, as the Genesis only offers a pass-through option. Drivers living in rougher climates may wish for all-wheel drive, which isn't offered on the Genesis either. Another missing perk, of course, is established premium brand prestige. But not all luxury-car buyers place a premium on snob appeal. Costing thousands less than its esteemed rivals, loaded with generous features and built impeccably, the Hyundai Genesis stands in a class of its own.

Used Hyundai Genesis Models
The Hyundai Genesis debuted for the 2009 model year and has seen progressive changes since. For the following year, adaptive cruise control, an electronic parking brake and touchscreen navigation joined the options list. The 2011 model year saw more power for the 4.6-liter V8, from 375 hp to 385 hp. The changes for 2012 included the addition of the 5.0 and R-Spec models to the Genesis lineup. That year also marked the debut of the eight-speed transmission (up from six speeds). After 2012, Hyundai discontinued the 4.6-liter V8 and the base 5.0 V8 trim level.

User Reviews:

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  Wasted money when fuel system keeps failing - 2012 Hyundai Genesis
  By Ken Payne - October 18 - 10:26 pm

  Car looks & feels great until it stalls at the intersection, or sputters when accrlerating between 20 & 40mph after the repair. Hyundai doesnt seem too interested in repairing performance issues. Their solution is to keep having the customer purchase expensive fuel parts to guess a fix.

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  DONT Buy A Genesis Thinking Its a Luxury Car - 2013 Hyundai Genesis
  By Bert Blackman - October 9 - 12:20 pm

  Dont buy a Genesis thinking its a luxury car. My car has wind noise, lots and lots of wind noise. Engine sounds funky, although nothing has broken yet. It sounds like its coming apart. At 15 months, all of my clear coat has peeled off. Of course, not under warranty.... But, the worst thing about this car is that if you buy one, you have to take your "luxury" car into a Hyundai dealership and talk to Hyundai service people for every little thing. And, that, is akin to being treated like a skunk at a wedding. Wind noise: Not their fault. Vibrations: Not their fault. Paint peeling was caused by a "rock chip" even though it started in the back, around the trunk, first. Washing the car removes paint. "Sweet." Part of the reason one purchases an upscale car is for the upscale experience. I own Porsches, Mercedes Benz, Infinity, etc. All are acceptable. Hyundai is like a cattle call. Did I save a few bucks? Yes. But after 15 months of this, I regret not just going down to the local Porsche dealership and dropping 125,000 on a Panamera. Life is too short to suffer with Hyundai and the untrained ruffians who work there. Oh, and in this car, you are either burning up or freezing to death. Climate control is awful. Freezing in winter, heat up, and cold air blows.... somehow......

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  Nice car for the money - 2014 Hyundai Genesis
  By Tom - September 29 - 8:32 am

  Purchased mine in July 2014 Nice car now has 18000 miles with no issues however the cost of car vs what options are in it ,think it a bit short for being the basic model probably could have purchased a fully loaded Chrysler 300 with all options otherwise its a nice car

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  BEST SEDAN ON THE ROAD - 2010 Hyundai Genesis
  By Gary Lewis - September 28 - 7:59 pm

  Top notch sedan. The 4.6 is the one. 3.8s just dont cut it. Ive had this car for three plus years and wouldnt think of even trading it in. Great performance and beautiful lines. No issues whatsover. Change oil, brakes, tires. A++++++

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  I love my Genesis with the Ultimate package - 2015 Hyundai Genesis
  By Kathy Denworth - September 18 - 5:55 am

  The vehicle is fabulous. Cheers to Hyundai for having the Genesis badge front and back and removing the Hyundai badge. Jeers to Hyundai for requiring the purchase of the Blue Link Connect Care package to get the Remote package. To get the remote package for my lease period is $408 because I have to purchase connect care, which I really dont care about.

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  Great 1st year, not so much now - 2015 Hyundai Genesis
  By Disappointed - September 10 - 4:17 pm

  Ive had my 2015 AWD 3.8 V6 Hyundai Genesis with the Ultimate Package now for a little over 1 year. Within the last 3 months, the car has developed numerous extremely annoying rattles, clunks, thuds, popping and creaking sounds inside the cabin anytime the body flexes or encounters bumps. I cant tell where they are all originating from: dash, door, sunroof, or trunk. Its very disappointing that an otherwise fine vehicle is plagued with these kinds of problems. This is my first Hyundai (and probably last) vehicle and the problems Im now experiencing were my worst fear prior to purchasing. They make the car feel and sound cheap and are practically impossible to fix, let alone find. The build quality just isnt there yet. Other gripes: 1. Front bumper too low frequently scraped from simply entering and backing out of driveway. 2. Not enough headroom. 3. Not enough heat felt in foot area. 4. Driver side door takes more effort to close than passenger doors. 5. Side view mirrors too high obstructing vision. 6. Limited rear view. 7. Seat cushions too hard. 8. Noisy and rough riding Hankook tires. For a car in this class, Hyundai has a long way to go in my opinion. In particular, the cabin should be the focus and should be much quieter and completely devoid of ANY rattles, squeaks, clunks, thuds, popping or creaking sounds.

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  Inteligent choice for a emotional decision - 2015 Hyundai Genesis
  By Brook - September 10 - 1:27 pm

  Anyone purchasing a car in this category doesnt really need everything that comes with it - lets be serious! That being said, if you are in the frame of mind where you either feel you deserve or want to reward yourself with this class of vehicle - look no further than here. I purchased the AWD Signature/Tech package and could not be happier, but more importantly, could not be more impressed with the value/quality of the vehicle and the purchasing experience. I have owned several Lexus, driven BMWs and Mercs (on regular basis/not owned), and I have to say the bang for the buck and quality is clearly here. If you a purist and need that ultimate driving experience, then go buy BMW. But ask yourself this? How often to you truly get to exercise the limits of performance of a mid/full size sedan? Do you really need to? Some key highlights for me are: The adaptive cruise control, intuitive instrumentation (never been a fan of i-drive), and interior comfort. I am 67" and never felt like I fit in a car before this. Performance mode is more than apt for this size/class vehicle. It may not be the fastest, but I come back to the point does it really need to be? I typically drive in normal or eco mode and have been getting 23/24 mpg and in eco have not noticed a big difference in performance. Purchasing experience was one of the best (internet sales) - was in and in out under 2 hours, including trade in. Great customer service. Keep in mind this is not a luxury dealership so dont expect the leather couches and espresso machine, etc. However, the time, effort and care was equal to if not more so (to make for the fact they didnt have the lux dealership amenities?) than what i have experienced at the Lexus dealership. If you are looking for that lux feel and ride and would rather keep $10k-$20k in your bank account, then go test drive one of these cars and see for yourself.

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  I thought I would buy a Lexus - 2015 Hyundai Genesis
  By Bob Ham - September 7 - 11:34 pm

  My wife and I decided to buy a new car, and a nice car, which we have never done. I really thought we would end up with a Lexus, as I have been buying Toyotas for many years. We drove several cars but it came down to the Lexus ES 350 and the Genesis. It was no contest. The Genesis had a much more sophisticated and pampered feel. The cabin is very quiet and the car is very sure around corners and curves, even at higher speeds. Its not a sports car, but it is confident. With as much tech as there is on cars these days you want the controls to be intuitive and easy to use, I mean, youre driving, theres no time for fumbling. The Genesis has the perfect balance of touchscreen selections, buttons and knobs where they should be. Overall, my favorite option is the 360 degree radar - all used for different tasks - parking, backing up, emergency braking, adaptive cruise, etc.. My wifes favorite option are the ventilated seats (We live in Houston - usually hot). For us, the Lexus was a dated vehicle compared to the Genesis. Driving the car was pleasant but boring and the "mouse" was frustrating to use for an interface and the audio system sound was disappointing for such an elite vehicle. Make no mistake - the Lexus customer experience is entirely another level, but the Genesis, for us, was the superior car - by far - and our ultimate purchase. Its been about 2 months of ownership and we continue to be impressed. The only issue I have with the car is the mileage - 1st tank was 15.0 mpg in mixed driving. Well see what the future holds. Overall, though, great job, Hyundai!! Ill post future reviews as it goes....

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  Nice concept but still a Hyundai - 2015 Hyundai Genesis
  By crmoraes@hotmail.com - September 5 - 11:20 am

  I bought a 2015 Genesis 3.8 after thinking for a long time. I never had a Hyundai before and honestly did not trust it as a reliable car. Initially the car performed well in all aspects but at 1k miles the driver seat started to vibrate and few more miles the steering wheel also started to vibrate. - First Service The vibration just got worst and at the first service and some internet research I was asked to replace the tires due a Hyundai recall, which I did. Well, that did not fix the vibration issue but just made worst. I also opened a complain with Hyundai about the vibration. - Second visit I went back to the dealer and explained in details what was happening. They inspect and said that had to perform a tire balance as they were off. - Third visit Vibration was still as before, specially around 50-60 miles. So, took it back to the dealer and again inspection more adjusts and nothing. - Fourth visit At this point I was upset and did not want the car anymore. Went back to the dealer and asked them to trade in for another car or helped me fixed, even talked to the owner. He asked the service manager to ride my car which he did and even with the vibration he said it was normal. I told him that the loaner Genesis they gave did not have it and he should drive the loaner to compare it. He said the owner would take care of my issue. After almost 3 hrs seated at the dealer waiting for someone to talk to me I went to search for the owner again and ask what would happen. At that point the owner was busy and nobody could help me. So, I decided Hyundai never more and left to trade it for another trusted and reliable brand.

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  Worst warranty in the industry - 2011 Hyundai Genesis
  By Stanford Aryan - September 2 - 9:33 pm

  Hyundai emphasizes its warranty at every opportunity to get you to buy their car. I was one of these victims. I recommend that before you buy any car from Hyundai, you spend about an hour at the Service department of the dealership. Just sit down and listen. You will come to find what I found out the hard way. Hyundai had absolutely no intention of ever honoring its warranty. What ever the problem is with the car, it was your fault and therefore it is not covered. If they cannot prove it was your fault, then they will make you spend thousands of dollars one tests to prove that the problem is not the part. The company has perfected the "it is not our part/product/workmanship/fault" philosophy.