Hyundai has come a long way from selling strictly economy cars in North America. The Korean carmaker's styling, material quality, and reliability standards have all been enhanced over the years, giving way to their crowning achievement - The 2009 Hyundai Genesis luxury sedan.
The Genesis's bodylines and chrome accents hint at the upscale playing field on which Hyundai now competes. The luxury automakers of Japan and Europe are the target- and Hyundai is doing it for a lot less.
Our test model came equipped with the base engine- a 3.8-liter V6 that puts out 290 horsepower and 264 pound feet of torque. Opt for the 4.6-liter V8, and you'll get 368 horsepower and 324 pound feet of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Fuel economy for the Genesis ranges from 17 miles per gallon city to 27 miles per gallon highway.
While the exterior of the Genesis hints at its a luxury sedan bonafides, the interior seals the deal... Outfitted in clove soft brown leather, the cabin of the Genesis is roomy and well equipped. Standard equipment includes push-button start, power adjustable, heated front bucket seats, leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel, and stereo with in-dash CD player.
Add the Technology Package and you're treated to a Lexicon 17-speaker audio system with navigation, 6-disc in-dash DVD changer, XM Satellite radio with NavTraffic, Bluetooth hands free communication system, HID headlights with adaptive lighting & auto-leveling, rear backup warning camera, front and rear park assist sensors, cooled drivers seat and driver information system.
Safety equipment includes 4 wheel antilock disc brakes with electronic brake force distribution, a traction control system with electronic stability control, front and rear crumple zones, and a full array of front and side impact airbags.
Base MSRP for the 2009 Hyundai Genesis is $32,250. A fully loaded V8 model will cost around $42,000. The Genesis is backed by Hyundai's impressive 10-year/ 100,000-mile powertrain warranty.
With luxury styling and equipment, and Hyundai's reliability and affordability, the 2009 Hyundai Genesis delivers reasonably priced luxury, comfort and performance.