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:

• 

  First Hyundai - 2009 Hyundai Genesis
  By Ron L - September 20 - 7:20 pm

  I am a long-time dedicated American car owner. This time after dissatisfaction with the American choices available I reluctantly begun to shop foreign cars. a friend suggested taking a look at the Hyundai Genesis. My first look was at a 3.8 and although impressed was not sold. When a 4.6 hit the lot I was done! This is a surprising car with the amount of interior and trunk space, ride, and quality of engineering. If Korean automakers can do it so much better than our domestic models, it is no wonder we are having to bail out our own companies.

• 

  Genesis for a Genesis - 2009 Hyundai Genesis
  By PhilB - September 20 - 6:26 am

  My company name- Genesis, so my wife kept suggesting that I buy... a Genesis. For the fun of it, we did a test drive and fell in love. The dealership was sensitive to the upscale nature of the car and us being informed buyers. It has been BIG fun so far with the head turns (there are only 3-4 in Tyler TX (our home) so far. And we are adding all of the wings extras to personalize it from KAI. The trim is the premium plus with the technology package. We wanted the V8, but.. they cant keep them on the lot! I was ok with the power of the V6, but missed some of the trim that is only available on the V8. BUT, were adding most back in. LOVE it!

• 

  Great Value - 2016 Hyundai Genesis
  By Koop - September 9 - 8:20 pm

  Just moved to a Genesis after owning Infiniti. I think the Genesis is a better car than the Infiniti in just about every way, including the dealership experience, all at thousands of dollars less in cost. I managed to get my Signature edition for the price of a base model. Great ride, smooth transmission, plenty of power in the v6, very quiet, lots of headroom and legroom. The only nits I can pick are that the brakes are rather soft and need to be applied earlier, and the automatic windshield wiper goes way too fast for the amount of rain. Other than that I am simply loving this car. Get lots of looks and questions about what it is, especially since I changed out the Hyundai flying H badge on the trunk for a KDM Genesis wings logo in back.

• 

  Very surprised... - 2009 Hyundai Genesis
  By drew - September 3 - 2:40 pm

  Never thought I would ever buy a Hyundai but I am truly satisfied. Traded in my 540i which was breaking down for a much faster and smoother car. It doesnt handle like a BMW but still pretty nice. People tried to discourage me from getting a Genesis and now they are the ones who are thinking about it after riding my car :)

• 

  Look no further... - 2016 Hyundai Genesis
  By Bob Kelly - July 22 - 9:21 pm

  Have had the car for just over one month with nothing but high praise for comfort, driving and handling (one snow storm with the AWD system and flawless). Everything is great, but the one thing that stands out is the quiet cabin. At a sustained 80 mph theres no wind or road noise to mention. The 311HP engine puts out more than enough acceleration and cornering is solid. The seats are extremely comfortable and theres ample head room in both front and back. If I had to pick one thing to complain about its the headrest in the rear middle seat; it somewhat obstructs my view out rear view mirror. Im sure the headrest comes out, but havent felt the need to figure it out. My first Hyundai and definitely not my last.

• 

  Next Lexus? - 2016 Hyundai Genesis
  By Gary Jamison - July 8 - 4:28 am

  Overall great car but ride not as serene as my Lexus. Reliability not as good as Lexus. Other Genisis owners have felt trade in values not as high as expected, especially when shopping for new model Genisis. I am waiting for 2017 G80 and G90 before deciding.

• 

  Hyundai Genesis - 2009 Hyundai Genesis
  By Deborah Nitterhouse - July 3 - 7:20 pm

  The Genesis with the V8 is a kick to drive. It is a very stylish car and the interior is beautiful. Those are the two reasons why I bought it. There are a few kinks that still have to be worked out with mine. After having the tires balanced it is still rough on the interstate. The brakes still screech when I back out of the garage.

• 

  Amazing - 2009 Hyundai Genesis
  By R. Epstein - June 19 - 1:00 am

  I have just had my Genesis since Jan 17/2009. It beats the heck out of my Chrysler 300 (2005) by a mile. I looked at Nissan Maxima, Altima, Lincoln, Buick, Cadillac and they did not even come close. The car is superb.

• 

  Genesis is the new BMW!!!! - 2009 Hyundai Genesis
  By Genesis - June 10 - 5:36 pm

  Absolutely love it! I drive approx 23,000+ miles annually so its extremely important I have a vehicle that is comfortable, has get-up-and-go for the freeways, is great to handle up and down the mountains in California, that is classy yet sporty...Im telling you this car has it all! Everyone stares at the car - even those with Beemers and Mercedes B drivers in total disbelief. The car is a total dream to drive. I set cruise, set the seat back, plug in the IPod and off I go. I stayed with the V6 because that had PLENTY of power. I dont know Id do with the V8. As it is I do 85/90 and dont realize it. Awesome, awesome, car! Go for it...seriously give the Genesis thought.

• 

  Hyundais Head-Turner! - 2016 Hyundai Genesis
  By Eddie - May 1 - 11:44 am

  Hyundai came a long way since their introduction of Genesis model and at some point they must have invested enough efforts to get it to stand out the way it does today. Genesis kept grabbing my attention on the roads in passing. I just couldnt look away trying to recognize and confirm if I was looking at Hyundai or some other super expensive brand. I eventually took the time to drive one and was instantly impressed. Ive driven most luxury brands out there, owned an MB S550 and E550, BMW 750Li and 535i, and a Lexus LS430 and 460L, so the last thing I expected is to be captivated by design, feature set, or driving dynamics of a Hyundai. All that said, while not without cons the Genesis really stood out as a complete package in luxury sedan market with significantly lower price tag. I ended up buying a 2016 V6 with Ultimate package and so far Im super happy with it. I cant comment re. reliability aspect as this is my first Hyundai and I only owned it for about 3 weeks and 800 miles now. I test drove the V8 as well and while its performance is very impressive I wasnt ready to sacrifice the MPG given that the V6, while wont leave you breathless, has plenty of power. Since for 2016 Hyundai also changed the Genesis emblem on the back (optional dealer installed feature for 2015) I have people approaching me on the daily asking what the make and model of this beauty is, confusing it with other badges :). So here goes the summary: Pros: Quiet and well handled ride. Very little road noise and nicely hushed wind noise. Very nicely controlled steering. Very well equipped with Signature Tech OR Ultimate packages with lane assist, adaptive cruise, and auto hold features that actually respond in a smooth and controlled manner unlike some other brands out there. Window shades on rear and side glass is a nice add-on. Very nice sounding stereo. Nicely laid out instrumentation and controls and very easy to use intuitive software (dash and main screens). VERY comfortable heated and cooled seats that adjust every way possible. Impressive fuel economy for a 311hp V6. I average 20-22mpg in mixed driving so far, and Im on Normal driving mode, which could improve with Eco. Roomy Cabin with plenty of leg / head room even for taller individuals beyond 6. Very cool looking and functional pano roof. Cons: Remote start available ONLY through Bluelink subscription is just dumb! Cant phrase it any other way, sorry. The feature shouldve been included on keyfob independent of any additional subscriptions as every mainstream (not luxury) vehicle offers it at this point. Side mirrors are mounted pretty high up and can block visibility into turns. It would be nice if the HUD could auto adjust its brightness for day/night operation. Its adjustable but not variable for day/night operation so I have to constantly adjust it. Thats about it for gripes!