It's been leaked, spied, shot in its homeland, and now it's here. Hyundai's first rear-driver for the US market, Genesis is driven by three engines — a 3.3-liter, 268-horsepower V6, a 3.8-liter, 290-horsepower V6, and the new "Tau" 4.6-liter, 368-horsepower (375 on premium) V8 — all of which are mated to six-speed automatic transmissions. The fun doesn't stop there — Hyundai says that the Tau V8 may eventually offer forced induction and larger displacement options, showing that there's some flexibility in the engine architecture. Keep your fingers crossed that the above is some creative foreshadowing by Hyundai PR as it relates to the drivetrains in the upcoming RWD Genesis Coupe.

Weighing between 3700 and 4000 pounds, depending on equipment, Genesis is no featherweight, but Hyundai claims that it's still a lighter and more rigid structure than that of Mercedes-Benz's E-Class and BMW's 5-Series sedans. That's in spite of it having more interior room than either — the Genesis is larger both outside and inside than both the Lexus GS and the Infiniti M, as well. Its styling is clean, but so conservative that it's rumored Genesis — the Ron Paul of C-segment sedans — can only take left-hand turns very gently, because if it leaned to the right any harder, it'd tip over.

Genesis also boasts a few options that one wouldn't usually see on a car with a base price under $30,000 (the V8 is expected to come in at $35,000 nicely loaded, although Hyundai hasn't released pricing yet), including active head restraints, adaptive xenon lighting, adaptive cruise control, a stitched-leather instrument panel, and heated/cooled seats.

Some see the Genesis' move into the realm of midsize rear-drivers as Hyundai just following the Way of the World, that they're taking years of brand equity as good, value-packed cars and Throwing it All Away, but we feel that Hyundai's product lineup is being crafted with a deft but Invisible Touch, and look forward putting this car through its paces alongside the other newcomer to the market — Pontiac's G8 — in the near future.

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., January 8, 2008 - Hyundai aims to shatter premium automobile paradigms with the North American International Auto Show introduction of its new flagship, the all-new Genesis sports sedan on January 13. With capabilities and features comparable to $60,000 premium sedans, Genesis will be offered at a starting price under $30,000 when it goes on sale this summer.

Genesis is built on Hyundai's all-new, performance-driven rear-wheel-drive architecture. It offers three powertrains, including 3.3-liter and 3.8-liter V6 engines, and Hyundai's all-new 4.6-liter Tau V8. Tau will produce an estimated 368 horsepower on regular fuel, and lead all its competitors in specific output with 80 horsepower per liter. With technology rivaling more expensive luxury sedans, Genesis showcases features such as XM NavTraffic, Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFLS), Smart Cruise Control, Lexicon(r) audio systems and electronic active head restraints (for a full list of leading features, see page 8).

"While Genesis will compete for customers with cars like Chrysler 300 and Pontiac G8, our engineering benchmarks were Mercedes E-Class, Infiniti M, and Lexus GS," said John Krafcik, vice president, product development and strategic planning, Hyundai Motor America. "Genesis provides a potent combination of performance, luxury, and value. We think it has the opportunity to be an extremely disruptive force in the large sedan and near-luxury segments." Genesis ushers in a new era for Hyundai. Its all-new rear-wheel drive architecture will spawn more products in other segments, as suggested by the Concept Genesis Coupe shown at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November 2007.

NEW PERFORMANCE-DRIVEN REAR-WHEEL-DRIVE ARCHITECTURE

Genesis is built on an all-new rear-wheel-drive architecture, its first application in a U.S. Hyundai model. Genesis boasts a near ideal 53/47 front-to-rear weight distribution for exceptional handling and more refined steering characteristics. The rear-wheel-drive layout allowed engineers to position the car's front wheels farther forward delivering outstanding handling and steering performance. Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC), the industry's most important new safety technology, further enhances the vehicle's driving confidence. Hyundai leads all popular car brands in the standard application of ESC, with more than 70 percent of 2007 Hyundai sales featuring ESC as standard equipment.

Genesis reduces interior noise levels and improves ride and handling with a stiffer, lighter body structure. The use of high tensile steel in critical areas in the unibody provides Genesis with 12-14 percent higher dynamic torsional rigidity and a lower body structure weight than the BMW 5-series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class - despite having a substantially larger cabin than either of those benchmarks. Hyundai Genesis has more interior volume than Mercedes Benz E-Class and BMW 7-Series.

WORLD-CLASS TAU V8

Headlining the Genesis' performance capabilities is Hyundai's all-new Tau 4.6-liter V8 engine mated to a ZF 6-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC(r) manual control. The Tau V8 delivers an estimated 368 horsepower to fit the demands of performance-oriented consumers. Unlike many competitors and most premium sedans, it achieves this impressive power output using regular unleaded fuel - further demonstration of Hyundai's commitment to value. This powertrain combination will launch Genesis to 60 miles per hour in less than six seconds. The Tau produces more horsepower and torque than the powerplants found in Lexus GS450, BMW 750i, Audi A8 and Infiniti M45 and has more horsepower per liter than any of its V8 competitors. The Tau engine is built with flexibility for the future. Future Tau variants may offer larger displacement, forced induction options and other technology enhancements.

STRONG LAMBDA V6 PERFORMANCE

Genesis also delivers spirited performance through its two V6 options -- all-aluminum 3.3-liter and 3.8-liter DOHC V6 engines that deliver an estimated 268 horsepower and 233 lb-ft. of torque and an estimated 290 horsepower and 264 lb.-ft. of torque, respectively. To maximize the power spread, the engines utilize Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) on intake and exhaust cam shafts and a new Variable Intake System (VIS) that helps cylinders breathe efficiently at low and high RPM. The better breathing results in outstanding off-the-line acceleration and passing performance, and remarkable fuel efficiency. The V6 engines use an alloy block and cylinder heads for lighter weight and thermal efficiency, and feature timing chains with no scheduled maintenance.

Even with their impressive output, all Genesis engines are also environmentally friendly, with all three achieving Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV) certification levels.


ADVANCED 6-SPEED TRANSMISSIONSBoth Genesis V6 engines use an Aisin 6-speed SHIFTRONIC automatic transmission that features an overdrive lock-up torque converter for improved highway fuel economy. The transmission offers smooth shifts and a wide spread of ratios that ideally suit both engine's characteristics including a tall-overdrive sixth gear for quiet, efficient highway cruising. Drivers can access the SHIFTRONIC(r) feature by moving the gear selector into a separate gate. Pushing the selector forward or pulling it rearward will shift the transmission up or down sequentially, adding to driver control. A clear LCD readout on the instrument panel shows the gear that's in use. The Tau V8 Genesis is mated with an enhanced, high-output ZF 6-speed transmission to handle the added horsepower and torque.

Genesis features a suspension design that is among the most sophisticated and refined anywhere, at any price. The front five-link suspension features upper and lower arms linking the front wheels to the chassis. This artfully articulated arrangement creates a virtual king pin axis that dramatically reduces unwanted kickback through the steering wheel as well as improving responsiveness. The five-link independent rear suspension is equally sophisticated, enabling precise suspension geometry for a premium ride and engaging handling prowess. The capabilities of the advanced front and rear-suspension are maximized through Amplitude Selective Dampers (ASD) allowing tuning flexibility at smaller damper displacements. The ASD suspension provides:


• Improved ride comfort with more body / wheel control
• Increase driving comfort without compromised handling
• Optimizes road surface contact
• Technology used in Lexus, BMW and Mercedes-Benz models

PROGRESSIVE DESIGN MIRRORS ATHLETIC CAPABILITY Genesis' design is a progressive interpretation of the modern rear-wheel drive sports sedan. To match its dynamic capabilities, Genesis combines strong, sculpted forms which integrate precise details, natural materials and innovative lighting to provide a well-crafted, premium design aesthetic.

HIGH-TECH ACCOMMODATIONS AT ACCESSIBLE PRICE POINTS

The new 2009 Genesis is the most advanced Hyundai ever. From its design and spaciousness to its technology and appointments, it delivers a wealth of features and performance befitting flagship European and Asian brands, but delivers them at a much more accessible price point. Starting with its Lexicon state-of-the-art audio system featuring LOGIC 7(r) technology, Genesis offers an extraordinary combination of technology, premium appointments, and value. Standard is a soft-touch instrument panel with woodgrain accents, Bluetooth(r) hands-free mobile phone interface, and USB/iPod(r) auxiliary inputs. A state-of-the-art navigation system with an eight-inch display is available. The navigation unit is accessed by a user-friendly multi-media controller that also controls the radio. Backing out of tight spaces and avoiding mishaps is much easier with the available backup camera that uses the eight-inch display to show the driver a clear view immediately behind the car.
genint.jpg

A leather-wrapped dash, door panels, and console lid surround the driver in a luxurious environment, while heated and cooled driver's seat provides optimal driving comfort. An automatic windshield defogger with humidity sensor and rain-sensing wipers allow crystal clear sight lines. No other car in the segment offers an ultraviolet reflective leather steering wheel, which keeps the surface cool to the touch, even in scorching sunlight. Genesis also offers the conveniences of power rear sunshade, automatic electronic parking brake, proximity key and push button starter.

LEXICON(r) AUDIO SYSTEMS TEAM WITH XM, HD RADIO(tm), and APPLE TO OFFER UNRIVALED AUDIO PERFORMANCE AND CHOICE

Rolls Royce Phantom and Hyundai Genesis are the only automobiles to offer a Lexicon-branded state-of-the-art audio system featuring LOGIC 7(r) technology. The Lexicon(r) surround sound audio system includes a 12-channel digital amplifier and 17 speakers producing more than 500 watts of sound in 7.1 discrete audio. Genesis is also the first popular brand to offer the clarity of digital HD Radio technology from the factory. Navigation-equipped Genesis models also include a 30-gigabyte hard drive and XM NavTraffic. Like every 2009 Hyundai, Genesis comes standard with XM Satellite Radio. Auxiliary USB and iPod(r) inputs allow drivers to fully control and charge iPods directly from the head unit.

ADVANCED LIGHTING TECHNOLOGY

The 2009 Genesis offers Xenon high-intensity discharge (HID) headlights. The advantages of HID headlamps include greater lighting power, daylight-type lighting and reduced power consumption. In addition, the cut lines of the new HID headlights are extremely precise, providing maximum nighttime visibility without distracting other drivers. The lamps also feature an auto-leveling function which keeps the headlights level regardless of how the vehicle is loaded with passengers or cargo. Genesis also offers an Automatic Front Lighting System that allows the headlamps to automatically swivel for better visibility when cornering.

NEW TECHNOLOGIES DELIVER IMPROVED SAFETY PERFORMANCE

Maintaining Hyundai's emphasis on delivering leading safety technology, Genesis boasts world-class active and passive safety features to help both prevent accidents, and maximize the well being of its occupants in the event of a collision. The Genesis continues the Hyundai tradition of standardizing key life-saving safety technology such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC), eight airbags and electronic active head restraints.

Genesis' total of eight airbags include advanced dual front airbags, front and rear seat-mounted side-impact airbags, and roof-mounted side curtain airbags for both front and rear outboard seat occupants.

An electronic active head restraint system will debut on the 2009 Hyundai Genesis. Hyundai is the first popular brand to offer electronic active front head restraints, an improvement over mechanically based active head restraint systems. Until now, electronic active head restraints could only be found on select Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Lexus models. Active front head restraints have been proven by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety to help prevent whiplash.

Genesis has a total of 8 ultrasonic sensors located on the front and rear bumpers. The sensors along with the rear backup camera help detect how close objects are when parking. Distance is indicated on the in-dash screen and accompanied by an audible warning tone.

Forward-looking radar is used in Genesis' Smart Cruise Control system. Smart Cruise Control adjusts vehicle speed to maintain distance from the vehicle ahead in the same lane. Genesis is brought to a halt by large four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with Brake Assist and Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD). The 12.6-inch front rotors have single-piston floating calipers and the rear brakes feature 12.4-inch rotors with single-pistons on V6 models. Twin-pistons and larger rotors are featured on V8 models.

WARRANTY

The all-new 2009 Hyundai Genesis is protected by the Hyundai Advantage, America's Best Warranty(tm). Coverage includes five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper protection, 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, and seven-year/unlimited mileage anti-perforation coverage. In addition, Genesis buyers receive 24-hour roadside assistance coverage at no extra charge for five years (no mileage limit) and that service includes emergency towing, lockout service and limited coverage for trip-interruption expenses. There is no deductible on any of these coverages.

TECHNOLOGY


•Electronic active front head restraints
•Electronic Stability Control
•Eight airbags
•Heated / cooled seats
•High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps with adaptive leveling
•Adaptive Front Lighting System
•Push-button start
•Navigation with backup camera
•Electric parking brake
•Standard Bluetooth technology
•iPod/USB auxiliary inputs
•HD Radio(tm) receiver
•XM Satellite Radio(r) with NavTraffic
•Lexicon(r) Discrete Surround Audio Systems
•Automatic windshield defogger with humidity sensor
•Rain-sensing wipers
•Smart cruise control
•Five-link front and rear suspension
•Tau V8 engine
•6-speed transmissions

What is it?
2009 Hyundai Genesis

What's special about it?
There are only two production cars in the world with a Lexicon-branded audio system. One is the $360,000 Rolls Royce Phantom; the other is the 2009 Hyundai Genesis. The Genesis will not cost $360,000. In fact, it will start below $30,000 when it goes on sale this summer.

For that bargain price, you'll get a near-luxury sedan with all the value you would expect in a Hyundai. Base models will use a 3.3-liter V6 that delivers 268 horsepower and 233 pound-feet of torque, while the midrange Genesis gets a 3.8-liter V6 rated at 290 hp and 264 lb-ft of torque. Both use a standard six-speed Aisin automatic transmission.

Competing with more expensive European sedans takes more than a V6, so the top-of-the-line Genesis will offer Hyundai's first-ever V8. The new 4.6-liter engine generates an impressive 368 hp and 324 lb-ft of torque, and uses the same ZF six-speed automatic found in many BMW and Jaguar sedans. Hyundai says the combination is enough to get the V8 Genesis from zero to 60 mph in less than 6 seconds running on regular unleaded gas.

A new rear-wheel-drive chassis helps deliver all that power to the ground. It gets help from front and rear suspensions that use a sophisticated five-link design and the car's 53/47 front-to-rear weight distribution. Hyundai also says that the use of high-tensile steel gives the Genesis higher torsional rigidity and a lighter structure than the BMW 5 Series.

Hyundai is hoping to give its new flagship sedan an even bigger boost in the cachet department by offering high-end options similar to that of more expensive European sport sedans. In addition to the 17-speaker Lexicon audio system, the Hyundai Genesis will offer adaptive xenon headlights, heated and cooled front seats, iPod and USB audio inputs, adaptive cruise control, a factory HD Radio receiver and even reflective leather on the steering wheel to keep it cool in direct sunlight.

With a wheelbase of 115.6 inches, the Genesis has more room between the wheels than both the Infiniti M and Lexus GS sedans. It's also roughly 2 inches wider, so interior passenger space should be generous. There's the usual array of front, side and side curtain airbags along with electronic active head restraints, a feature Hyundai points out is only offered on select BMW, Lexus and Mercedes-Benz models.

What's Edmunds' take?
It has all the right specs and a competitive price, but it's the little things that separate real luxury cars from the posers. We'll see if the Genesis has what it takes after some time behind the wheel. — Ed Hellwig, Senior Editor