2009 Hyundai Genesis sedan
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Hyundai showed a near-production-ready version of its 2009 Genesis large sedan at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show. The Korean automaker hopes to woo buyers away from vehicles such as the Chrysler 300 and Pontiac G8 with this rear-wheel drive flagship.
While Hyundai's target market consists of Chrysler and Pontiac intenders, its engineering benchmarks are the Infiniti M, Lexus GS, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Genesis uses a brand new platform that will come with three engines. The 3.3- and 3.8-liter V6 engines from Hyundai's front-drive Azera sedan will be available. But the biggest news is that Genesis will be the first Hyundai to offer a V8. The 4.6-liter engine will produce 368 horsepower on regular unleaded gas (375 horsepower on premium), according to company estimates. All Genesis models will have a standard six-speed automatic transmission. Curtain side airbags are standard, as well as front and rear side impact airbags. Hyundai is also touting Genesis' interior appointments, with features that include a navigation system, rearview camera, Bluetooth wireless cell phone link, and a 500-watt, 7.1 surround Lexicon-brand audio system. Adaptive cruise control, front and rear obstacle detection, and Xenon headlights are among the other features Genesis will offer.
Like all Hyundais, Genesis will offer the company's 5-year/60,000 mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. Full pricing was not announced, but Hyundai officials said that V6 versions will start at less than $30,000, and loaded V8 models shouldn't top $40,000. The 2009 Hyundai Genesis goes on sale this summer.
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