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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Awesome Ride - 2009 Hyundai Genesis
By deeezldoc - October 21 - 5:03 pmIve owned BMW and Lexus-my Genesis 3.8L is more comfortable and has a firm, quiet, comfortable ride. Plenty of power but great mileage for a 3.8L. I couldnt be happier-Ive researched and waited for this car since I saw it on the Super Bowl ads. Look out Lexus-here comes Genesis.
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Just bad as in good, head turner - 2009 Hyundai Genesis
By genesis1 - October 11 - 10:36 amOnly have had this car a week and love the ride, the speed and great looks. Although the 6cyl has substantial power, the 8cyl is the way to go.
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My Genesis - 2009 Hyundai Genesis
By Steve Toyama - September 23 - 5:50 pmI tinted the windows and added blind side mirrors on both exterior mirrors as I like to switch lanes quickly. This car is the best car I have ever bought. I compared it against the Cadillac, Maxima, Lexus ES350 and Acura TL and like this car the best. My kids wanted me to buy another Chrysler 300C but was sold on the rear leg room once they got to go for a test drive in my Genesis.
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Its a Keeper! - 2009 Hyundai Genesis
By Wheelman - September 19 - 2:30 amOnly having the car for less than a week makes it difficult to offer critique that might affect someones buying decision. However, I am so impressed with how this car feels and performs that I am compelled to write something. Prior to making this purchase, I checked every available review, both professional and consumer, and I shopped every available source. When it became clear that this car was one that I should strongly consider, I agonized over whether I would buy a 3.8 or 4.6 variant. For the difference in price, I am happy with my choice although both cars are winners. I have owned a stable of fine cars over the years, and, Hyundai just didnt appeal to me...until now!
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Excellent First Step - Room for imprvmnt - 2009 Hyundai Genesis
By JP - September 2 - 9:46 amI see many criticizing the handling of this car. Personally, I think it is close to perfect. I find most luxury cars too soft with the handling and this car corners flat with predictable handling while not losing a luxury feel. It does have a tendency to porpoise a bit and there is room for improvement there. The thought given to this car and what is important to the driver is exceptional. I love most of the interior except the seats and headroom. I am 6 5" and I feel the seat needs to be lowered or have some padding removed. The seats should also be bigger offering some lateral support. Overall this is a winner for Hyundai and if they listen to consumers it can only get better.
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Beware a bumpy ride - 2009 Hyundai Genesis
By D - July 25 - 10:53 pmI just leased a base model Genesis a week ago. Sadly I like everything about it except the suspension. When I first test drove it, I noticed it was a bit bumpy, but I thought maybe it was because of the road I was on. I also noticed a few reviews mentioned bumpiness. But when I test drove it the second time it felt OK so I went ahead and leased it. After I took it home, I started feeling that the bumpiness was quite pronounced and at times jarring. I often find myself getting bumped up out of my seat, akin to the feeling of airplane turbulence. The vehicle has an odd combination of soft and hard ride. It feels cushy on a perfectly smooth road, but imperfections make the ride feel very bumpy.
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Mission Accomplished!!! - 2009 Hyundai Genesis
By imtraveler - July 24 - 6:20 pmI was following & really looking forward to this motor car, so I bought it! Owned 7 series & was nice compromise, esp. price. Hyundais first foray with an all-new RWD platform & V8 engine in this class is impressive. My car turns heads and I love its understated execution. Has the luxury amenities I need and $$$ to spare. Wish it was sold in a dedicated channel -- i.e., Genesis brand -- wouldnt mind stripping the H logo and replacing it with domestic market Genesis wings logo (front, back, wheel hub & horn pad)
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THIS IS A HYUNDAI? - 2009 Hyundai Genesis
By Paul - July 21 - 4:03 pmI have had multiple BMWs, a 300E and 3 Acura TLs and a 2006 Acura RL. This car hands down is better in almost every category than anything I have driven. They built a first ever rear wheel drive car that is quiet, has an incredible sound system and everything you would expect in a $60,000 car except that it cost 40. I realize that this is a first year model but as of now,Hyundai hit it out of the park
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Luxury - 2013 Hyundai Genesis
By Kathleen Pritchard - July 20 - 2:25 pmLove it
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Hyundai has hit a 10! - 2009 Hyundai Genesis
By Richard Ojeh - June 14 - 3:36 pmI previously was the owner of a 2006 Hyundai Azera which I traded in for the 2009 Hyundai Genesis w/Tech Pkg. Absolutely the best bang for you buck on the market today. This car has lived up to the hype. This car is definitely 7 Series size, 5 Series performance, 3 Series price!
