2008 Detroit Auto Show: Hyundai Genesis Sedan

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What it Is
2009 Hyundai Genesis Sedan Preview - 2008 Detroit Auto Show: With the ubiquitous thumping-bass techno soundtrack, fog machines and plenty of back lighting, Hyundai brought forth the Genesis Sedan for its official unveiling. Executives from the Korean automaker stressed that they were looking to disrupt what car buyers' perceptions were when it comes to luxury vs. price. Genesis is aimed squarely at Lexus, Infiniti and BMW and includes some truly luxo features -- radar smart cruised control, self-leveling and cornering HID head lamps, eight airbags, heated and cooled seats and the usual bevy of Bluetooth, satellite and HD radio. A Lexicon audio system with 17 speakers is available, and Hyundai is quick to point out that the only other car with that system is the Rolls Royce.

What's Under the Hood
Reports indicate three engines: a V-8 engine that generates a reported 375 horsepower and two existing V-6 engines, Hyundai's 3.3-liter and 3.8-liter powerplants mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The coupe will trade the base V-6 for a turbo four-banger, and will likely offer just the 3.8-liter V-6 as the high-end engine option. Not content copying MacPherson struts or a four-link suspension that its competitors have, Hyundai went with five-link, independent front and rear.

What it Looks Like
The Genesis sedan looks quite conservative, and in fact may make a nice sleeper at your neighborhood stoplight. Those who want styling flair, however, may be a bit pouty over the Genesis, as it's clearly going for an upscale look. To that end, the front is nicely executed, with a luxury-style grille, winged badge and headlights that would look at home on any luxury nameplate. With rounded character lines, what seems to be a fairly aggressive stance is muted at bit. No matter. Put some spinners on it and call it done.

What Hyundai Says
They're not pitching the warranty with this one, folks. Here it is, straight from the release:
"At the pinnacle of the Genesis motoring experience is the all-new Tau V-8 engine which will deliver 375 horsepower to the rear wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission. Hyundai's silk-smooth V-6 Lambda engines will also be offered in 3.3- and 3.8-liter editions. Hyundai pledges excellence at every step of the Genesis ownership experience from purchase to delivery and after-sales service."

What We Think
Hyundai's a long way from the 'Scoupe, or even the safety of "value" waters. Indeed, with a V-8 powered sedan and a top-end price tag at around $40,000, it's clear that all markets are open game. Call it luxury, performance or just plain fun, the Genesis will very likely open new doors for Hyundai. Up next? The coupe.

By MyRide.com Staff
Photo: Vern Heywood

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