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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  First model year Genesis. Id buy it again! - 2009 Hyundai Genesis
  By AZKerry - January 22 - 2:32 pm

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  More for the money than most... - 2015 Hyundai Genesis
  By Mark Vassalotti - January 4 - 11:13 am

  I have only owned my Hyundai Genesis for 1 month, so Im still learning about the car and its performance. But so far its everything that I expected. Most of the reviews that I read about the Genesis prior to my purchase spoke about the "value" associated with this car. You clearly get more features with the Genesis than cars from other companies at the same price point. Ive found this to be totally true. I decided to forgo the extra packages that are optional with the Genesis because I felt that the stock model had most everything that I want at this point. The only option I added was the AWD since I live in Connecticut. But you can clearly get some great options if youre willing to upgrade. The Genesis is pretty quiet, and has a smooth ride. But it has no performance or handling weaknesses. Its a nice blend of both. And thats what I was looking for. The interior is really comfortable. I feel like Im in a cockpit. Im 6 3" and I have both ample head room and leg room in the Genesis. I like the instrumentation, and the entertainment/navigation system is touch screen, and very easy to use. My wife commented that she has "Navigation envy" since my screen is so much easier to view and understand than her car. The Blue tooth was easy to set up, and works great. I personally love the look/design of the Genesis. And the added security of the Hyundai warranty made me feel more secure in my purchase.

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  Fun and Smooth, but beware of snow! - 2013 Hyundai Genesis
  By Brian - January 4 - 7:00 am

  I purchased this car about 2 weeks ago, and so far Im relatively happy with it. The cabin is quiet, and the car is very powerful, making it very fun to drive. However, we recently saw our first glimpse of snow which resulted in a light dusting. Somehow, this incredible car was completely immobilized in a parking lot by a dusting of snow! I was nervous about purchasing a RWD vehicle because of this exact thing, but my fears were assuaged by the salesman and online reviews, all of which suggested that RWD vehicles have come a long way and are no longer a complete liability in bad weather. I still really enjoy driving this vehicle, but wouldnt recommend it for anyone who wants to use it as their primary vehicle where you may see even a little snow or ice.

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  In the end it was worth it! - 2015 Hyundai Genesis
  By Jazzyjeff808 - January 2 - 10:58 am

  The Genesis is awesome in many ways. Safety, design, comfort....the list goes on and on. Test drive and youll see. If you want to eliminate the negotiations part of it go to north county Hyundai. By far the quickest to get to a fair price without the hassles and common practices a dealership will put you thru. I spoke to 15 dealerships and it only took them 15 minutes before I felt comfortable giving them my credit information. Thats what you call getting down to business.

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  Good but no cigar better options out there - 2012 Hyundai Genesis
  By Steve - December 28 - 6:07 pm

  Hyundai is trying to build a luxury brand, but, I think maybe they are 5 - 10 years away. I have had several major problems with my vehicle and Hyundai seems to like stating owner problem can not be duplicated and leave it at that. I had problems with the dash lights flickering from night time brightness to daytime brightness and Hyundai could not duplicate. I also had problems with the power windows and locks been driving vehicles with this equipment since the 1990s with not problems. The service experience needs to be addressed if this is truly a luxury vehicle should I be in the same service line as an Accent? All of my service has been done by the dealer, very expensive and my car had been returned with greasy hand prints on the interior, come on Hyundai up your game. Every time something needs to be repaired the parts are never on-hand and must be ordered. The vehicle rides like a truck the ride is harsh and punishing. The high points of the vehicle is the engine is very powerful for a V6 gas mileage is OK but not great, the A/C is powerful, the trunk is large but no fold down rear seats. The low points besides the harsh ride, there is a lag in acceleration which is dangerous and annoying, the vehicle at times can seem like the power steering is not there, the warranty assistance from Hyundai, I called their Corporate Headquarters to deal with my problems the person I spoke with was less then helpful and surly . The resale value sucks, you save on the purchase end but boom get stomped on the resale value. Would I purchase another Genesis no, I will part company with Hyundai and go with a more main stream brand

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  SWEEET SWEEET RIDE - 2015 Hyundai Genesis
  By Anthony Pewonski - December 28 - 12:59 pm

  Everything and more than more expensive cars. Looks good going down the road of parked and the interior is nice. All wheel drive is tops on my list.

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  3.8 Economy disappointed - 2012 Hyundai Genesis
  By Steve Barlow - December 25 - 2:36 pm

  I have read reviews that say 30MPG on highway, most I have had is 22.4 Should I have it checked? I have had MBZ 500s and the Genesis is a lot more car, I probably will not go back. There IS a surprise, if you are second owner the warranty is only 5 yrs 50,000 miles NOT 10 Year. after 5 years you are on your own. I didnt find this out until I had purchased the car. This was the only negative think I would say. I can find no reason for the big drop in pricing for 3 years..if you are thinking of buying one DO IT you will not be disappointed!!!

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  Great car overall, but associated costs can be... - 2010 Hyundai Genesis
  By Michael L. - December 22 - 5:10 pm

  The Hyundai Genesis Sedan 3.8L 2010 has been a good car overall, after 105000 miles. What you should be aware of is repair or replacement costs on some of this car. The headlights (which are very good? require full replacement, not just a $40 bulb. One headlight will run you $320 installed. Similar story for the required snow tires. This rear wheel drive car is not usable in any snow conditions unless one installs snow tires. With snows on it handles exceptionally well. Snow tires for this car cost $250 each. Such costs are similar to costs of a BMW or a Mercedes, as quality is matched but so are maintenance costs. I hesitate to consider a new replacement Genesis for my new car, despite loving my current one.

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  I didnt want this car. But Im glad I have it. - 2012 Hyundai Genesis
  By James - December 22 - 1:00 pm

  I bought an Audi S4 from a Hyundai dealership and literally 5 days later it blew up. Long story short, I bought where is as is (car had 100K on it, and a new motor - so I didnt really care and I was willing to take my chances) After a bit of a fight, the dealership - they said "hey, if you buy this, well take the paperweight S4 in as a trade. I obliged. Im a brand snob, Ill say it - BMW and VW/Audi have been my jam since I was in my early 20s. (TT, Jetta, 318i, M3 sedan, S4....) Well, I bit the bullet and swallowed my pride and took on this "cheap" korean wannabe luxobarge. My complaint: The car isnt ugly, it just doesnt have an identity - its not unique or special in any way - until you drive it. The car is fantastic. 27 MPG on the interstate a low of 17 when driving around crowded Kansas City streets.... but who cares, the car has the most FANTASTIC stereo Ive ever heard ANYWHERE. Car, house, boat... anywhere. There isnt much else to say - dont let your brand loyalty sway you from this car. It rules.

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  Switched from a BMW to a Genesis - 2015 Hyundai Genesis
  By Phil Carlson - December 11 - 9:20 am

  Ive had 5 BMWs: 2 740s, 2 135 convertibles and an X3. I guess you could say that I enjoy BMWs driving performance. But, I recently went on a long trip and I got tired of the BMWs rough ride. Sure, you feel the road, but you also feel all the bumps. So, I decided to look around. I found what I was looking for in the Genesis. Its much, much smoother than the BMW. Much more comfortable. The BMW jumps off the start faster, but the Genesis starts smoothly and then picks up. Their 0-60 specs are very similar. I went with the 5.0 to get the extra horsepower. The V-8 does accelerate well when you want it to. I test drove a BMW 535 for comparison. The Genesis is much better equipped. I really like the Lane Assist, which I didnt see on the BMW. The Lane Assist nudges you back into your lane by itself. That makes it very relaxing to drive. I also like the Adaptive Cruise control. I had one of those in a 2006 Infiniti, but it very jerky and only used it on long trips. This cruise control works in city driving. Again, its very smooth. So, between the Lane Assist and the Adaptive Cruise control its very comfortable. The Auto Hold feature is nice. With it on, when you stop you dont have to keep your foot on the brake. Very nice. I only wish I could set a default to have it on all the time. Overall, Im thrilled with the car. Of course, I also like the price. I saved money and bought more car.