Hyundai S-Cla...LS.....Genesis.

[unbreakable]

There's MORE to it than you guys think!!!!

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.

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® audio systems and electronic active head restraints.

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.

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.

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® 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 mph 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.

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.

Both 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® 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 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® technology, Genesis offers an extraordinary combination of technology, premium appointments, and value. Standard is a soft-touch instrument panel with woodgrain accents, Bluetooth® hands-free mobile phone interface, and USB/iPod® 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.

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.

Rolls Royce Phantom and Hyundai Genesis are the only automobiles to offer a Lexicon-branded state-of-the-art audio system featuring LOGIC 7® technology. The Lexicon® 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® inputs allow drivers to fully control and charge iPods directly from the head unit.

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.

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.

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. [/img]

I love what il be getting for my money! too bad on the grill though.. needs improvement.

[Wizegui]

Wow. And since it's a Hyundai, the top spec one with the Tau V8 will probably be $20,000 in 2 or 3 years time! With all that money you saved, you could even get an after market grille for it! It'll be like having a better looking 5 series for half the price!

[Steve Levin]

I'm definitely interested enough to go take a look at one as soon as they show up in dealerships.

You have to look at what this car competes against on equal pricing terms to realize that it's a heck of a deal.

Would I drive one instead of an S class? Of course not.

But would I drive one rather than a top-spec Chevy Malibu, or a mid-spec Chrysler 300? I think I just might.

Steve

[IceBone]

The only thing that's left to be seen is the build quality and how well it will fight the ravages of time. Comparing to the old Kia Clarus, a car that offered similar luxury features and capabilities for half the price of a european car, but which completely disintegrated after 5 years. I really hope it'll be built on par with the capabilities, i really like this car. AND the coupe!

[edkwon]

Some photos of a korean market Genesis sedan, ok this car has the potential to be seriously sexy, i'm starting to consider this over a 5 series as a mid size luxury daily driver

[Shawn]

^ That has the potential to be sexy? Looks like an uglified Lexus LS, and most people I know think the LS itself is ugly.

[p0w3r]

Originally Posted by unbreakable

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.

Now thats impressive....especially because the BMW, Lexus, Infiniti, and Audi requires premium while the Hyundai uses regular.

[Vette Boss]

I know Eastern culture has different taste in design and that's fine. Over here, in the West, it looks like a mesh-up of a bunch of last generation luxury cars.

Cribbing the look of other cars and making it worse, usually does not equal success.

[edkwon]

Originally Posted by Shawn

^ That has the potential to be sexy? Looks like an uglified Lexus LS, and most people I know think the LS itself is ugly.

Yep, it has the potential to look good, you heard me right.

[Ramseus]

Ummm... wtf winged emblem?

[TomCat]

I have to agree with edkwon. That lightly modded black car looks very very nice.

Only thing I would change is the exhaust tips and the painted calipers.

[NooDle]

looks like a BMW 3 series coupe...which isnt an ugly thing

but the front is too messy and theres way too much chrome for my tastes.
the logo is weird though, looks like an Aston badge?

[otispunkmeyer]

Originally Posted by edkwon

Some photos of a korean market Genesis sedan, ok this car has the potential to be seriously sexy, i'm starting to consider this over a 5 series as a mid size luxury daily driver



*snip*

that, dare i say it, looks rather good to me. very svelt, almost....german

[IceBone]

If they've fixed the incredibly wobbly ride, I'd have one!

[bartboy9891]

Originally Posted by NooDle

looks like a BMW 3 series coupe...which isnt an ugly thing

but the front is too messy and theres way too much chrome for my tastes.
the logo is weird though, looks like an Aston badge?

Originally Posted by Ramseus

Ummm... wtf winged emblem?

It doesn't carry the Hyundai badge in Korea, only the Genesis badge.

[klankymen]

which incidentally is the aston badge... no wait, the bentley badge... no wait, the mini badge... no wait, they thought of it all by themselves.

Fucking koreans copying everything.

[chaos386]

It looks really nice in black. I'd buy one.

[Crazyjeeper]

I didn't originally like it, but that tuned one with the polished wheels does look quite good.

[Sir Stiggington]

Surely this is copycat enough for Lexus to sue them...seriously...

[bartboy9891]

Originally Posted by THE REAL STIG

Surely this is copycat enough for Lexus to sue them...seriously...

In the flesh it doesn't look much like a Lexus. S-class from the front, but I didn't mistake it for anything else from any other angle.

The interior is of excellent quality. The leather is soft, the layout is pretty good, and the space is enormous. The dash seems a little mismatched in terms of color/material combinations, and the steering wheel looks awful, but those were the only big complaints I had. I was extremely impressed that Hyundai could have done such a good job on their first try. Plus the price is pretty damn good. Even the base $32K USD model has 290hp, leather and enough features to win over most people. Now Hyundai themselves claim it's a sports sedan but reviews say it's a much better luxury car than sports sedan. If Hyundai can make it a little more performance oriented, I don't see how they could fail with the Genesis.