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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Amazing Vehicle - 2009 Hyundai Genesis
By Tony P - August 3 - 6:33 amI have to admit, I thought I would never buy a Hyundai but I just bought one of these and wow, I am amazed by the fit and finish of this car. I just sold my Lexus so I am used to a nice ride but this takes the cake. The way the car excellerates and handles is very impressive. I love the quality of this car both in and out. The controls are very will thought out and every one of them seems to be placed where it needs to be. I think I am going to enjoy this car for years to come - thank you Hyundai
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This car is sick! - 2009 Hyundai Genesis
By Jennifer - August 2 - 6:26 pmHyundai went above and beyond with this car. TOO MUCH FUN!!! For the money, there is not a better value on the market, period. I love the fact that this car is indeed a Hyundai, which appeals to a person like myself who wants luxury without the cliche of owning Infiniti, Mercedes, BMW, etc. The surprise that comes with the discovery that its a Hyundai is priceless. Ive had a few issues with the AFLS (Adaptive Front Lighting System) and she was in the shop 3 times in about 2 weeks. Eek! But thats been the only issue, and considering its a production model I was expecting a lot worse. True, its been less than a month but I dont care, shes here to stay!
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Very Poor Suspension - 2009 Hyundai Genesis
By fdooleysr - August 1 - 11:05 pmThe plain truth about the 2009 Genesis is that it has a horrible suspension and rides like an old truck. You can feel every bump in the road. I think you could run over a fishing worm and feel it. This severe defect is not immediately noticeable during a short test drive. The dealer states that this is designed into the car because it is a high performance automobile. It is fairly smooth on the interstate but it jitters and bounces over suburban streets. The ride is the most important element of a car and it fails my expectations. Im not alone in my review of the suspension. Read the Hyundai Genesis Web site for more. The car is a beautiful car in all other aspects it is fantastic.
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Luxury at a bargain price - 2009 Hyundai Genesis
By Genecea - July 31 - 8:51 amI have had my v6 3.8 purchased with all available options for 4 months (7K miles). I love this car. I not had any issues and it is a great value. I am averaging 23 mpg in mixed driving. My friends with more expensive cars (E- series, Lexus LS, etc.) cannot believe the bargain. In fact, my boss just traded in his Infinity M45 on a v8 Genesis. Claims he saved over $150 per month on his lease and gave up very little in luxury or performance.
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A wonderful car - 2009 Hyundai Genesis
By Boxer - July 27 - 7:05 pmI was looking to replace my old bimmer, and I found a car that looked twice like my own. I thought it was a new bimmer. But, to my surprise, it was a Hyundai, out of all cars. That car I saw provoked me to look at the Genesis. I test drove the darn vehicle and I never looked back. I can say for certain that, like other posters, test driving the Genesis is a sure fire way take the Hyundai into your garage.
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Amazing value! - 2009 Hyundai Genesis
By John Nelms - July 21 - 5:39 pmLess expensive and more fun to drive than a Lexus GS-350. Eye-catching styling, great ride, and roomy interior, both front and rear. Shouts "quality!"
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This Car is Exceptional!!!! - 2009 Hyundai Genesis
By Carolyn Todd - July 20 - 2:31 pmI Bought this Car the day after my birthday in April. I absolutely love this Car!! It is the best kept secret. Most people think that Mercedes,Lexes and BMW are the best, But "No"! This Car out rides and performs these cars and other luxury cars for less than their prices for sure! I have the 6 cyl and the black on black. I love the Lexicon sound system and the comfort and quiet cabin. I am having the wings put on and drive everyone crazy! I get alot of stares now while driving. Everyone should at least test drive it! You will NOT be sorry! Check it out!!!
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Beautiful Girl, Bad Personality - 2009 Hyundai Genesis
By Genesis380 - July 18 - 9:15 pmThis car appears beautifully built and superbly appointed. It looks and feels like a $70,000 car for half the price. It exudes class and the fit and finish and appointments compete with the best in the industry. The dark secret is that it has horrible suspension and rides like a truck. This severe defect is not immediately noticeable - the suspension has a dual personality. It is beautifully smooth on the interstate but it jitters and bounces over suburban streets. It is horrible to drive and I regret leasing it. I am deeply disappointed. A short test drive doesnt reveal the quirky suspension characteristics. "This beautiful girl has a bad personality". Beauty is more than skin deep.
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A wonderful Car - 2009 Hyundai Genesis
By Jose R - July 18 - 12:20 amI bought this car for about 42K even. And I can not say enough about this car. It has everything I would ever want and then some. I can say for sure that the engine is very powerful and the handling is great.
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LEMON CAR - 2009 Hyundai Genesis
By rocket dog - July 17 - 6:05 amAdding to my review of may. Transmission has abnormal metallic clunking and slapping noise. this has caused the rear end to have some gear play and gear wine.Dealer miss in formed me as to cure. Hyundai factory tech had no answers and Hyundai customer service has STIFFED ME. There are no parts or adjustments for these electronic transmission. Dealers service manger and Hyundai tech drove a new in stock car and told me this normal for rear drive cars.
