Santa Barbara, California - Korean auto manufacturers don't exactly jump to mind when talking high-end sport sedans--well not until now that is. Hyundai just launched their Japanese/Euro-busting Genesis, a 4-door premium-level sports sedan powered by either a competent V6 or a potent V8. And best of all, the muscle is delivered to the rear wheels.
Genesis exhibits sophistication beyond the realm expected of Hyundai
Genesis owners should feel nothing but pride in parking their moderately-priced high-value baby among the influential emblems at the club, such as Infiniti--and beyond. Hyundai wisely chose to keep their identity discreet and aloof with the Genesis.
Very little "badging" is to be found, and the name "Hyundai" is nowhere to be found, or for that matter ridiculed by those unable to think outside the typical "performance sedan" box. The Genesis exhibits clean yet interesting exterior lines capable of generating a second glance in an attempt to assign lineage and a country of origin. Is it Japanese, German, domestic--who can tell?
Despite its blurred visual coding, the Genesis greets the eye with all the trademarks of luxury and performance that well-healed buyers have come to expect, except an alarming price tag. With V6 power, it starts at $37,995 while the top-of-the-line V8 version pulls no punches at $48,995.
Interior architecture sets new thresholds for Hyundai
I see a hint or two of both Infiniti and Mercedes-Benz represented in the Genesis's luxurious cabin, and what could be undesirable about that? Materials in use are as attractive and pleasing as those found in sedans with significantly larger MSRPs.
Like Jaguar dashboards, the dash in the Genesis is finished in a leather-like material that lends a touch of class to the cabin. Warm woodgrain inlays complement the leather and add elegance to the ambiance. Overall, interior construction is tight, accurate and flawless.
The Premium Package brings with it a high-end Lexicon audio system that finds its way into only one other vehicle, that being a Rolls-Royce. The Technology Package adds a voice-activated navigation system and rearview camera among other hi-tech goodies.
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Genesis exhibits sophistication beyond the realm expected of Hyundai
Genesis owners should feel nothing but pride in parking their moderately-priced high-value baby among the influential emblems at the club, such as Infiniti--and beyond. Hyundai wisely chose to keep their identity discreet and aloof with the Genesis.
Very little "badging" is to be found, and the name "Hyundai" is nowhere to be found, or for that matter ridiculed by those unable to think outside the typical "performance sedan" box. The Genesis exhibits clean yet interesting exterior lines capable of generating a second glance in an attempt to assign lineage and a country of origin. Is it Japanese, German, domestic--who can tell?
Despite its blurred visual coding, the Genesis greets the eye with all the trademarks of luxury and performance that well-healed buyers have come to expect, except an alarming price tag. With V6 power, it starts at $37,995 while the top-of-the-line V8 version pulls no punches at $48,995.
Interior architecture sets new thresholds for Hyundai
I see a hint or two of both Infiniti and Mercedes-Benz represented in the Genesis's luxurious cabin, and what could be undesirable about that? Materials in use are as attractive and pleasing as those found in sedans with significantly larger MSRPs.
Like Jaguar dashboards, the dash in the Genesis is finished in a leather-like material that lends a touch of class to the cabin. Warm woodgrain inlays complement the leather and add elegance to the ambiance. Overall, interior construction is tight, accurate and flawless.
The Premium Package brings with it a high-end Lexicon audio system that finds its way into only one other vehicle, that being a Rolls-Royce. The Technology Package adds a voice-activated navigation system and rearview camera among other hi-tech goodies.
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