2015 Hyundai Genesis: Reaching into the Luxury Sedan Class

The Genesis is Hyundai’s version of a luxury car, and why shouldn’t Hyundai offer a luxury vehicle? Being an automaker that has made a name for itself with some cars that are built on both ends of the spectrum, both sporty and economical, the Hyundai Genesis is the perfect addition to the family and is poised to carry on the family name with plenty of style and a massive amount of standard equipment that puts other luxury cars to shame.

As a vehicle that is built to reach up into the luxury class and hang with the likes of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, BMW 5 Series, Audi A6, and Lexus GS, the Genesis offers a very elegant look but quite a bit of strong menacing attitude as well. Entering its second generation the 2015 model is all-new from the ground up. The interior offers more space than before and the infotainment system is state-of –the art and easy to use. The engines have had a makeover as well to both add better torque and improve the fuel economy as well as adding the availability of all-wheel drive that was missing from the previous generation.

The driving feel of the new generation of Genesis is agile and highly responsive. A new chassis and fully retuned suspension help to keep the car confidently attached to the pavement and handle any bump or bruise on the road without even letting the occupants know it was there. The steering is superior to the previous generation and will have owners seeking out the curviest and windiest road in their area just for some added driving fun. Because Hyundai wants this to be a luxury model, the Genesis has one of the quietest cabins on the planet. This is achieved through advanced insulation and noise reduction technologies allowing the inhabitants of the vehicle to enjoy their musical selections instead of road noises.

The Genesis offers a choice of two engines; a V6 and a V8 both with plenty of power; it’s just a matter of how much power an owner needs in order to really enjoy the Genesis. Both engines are directly injected and are revisions of the engines from 2014. The first one offered is the 3.8-liter V6 that offers a strong 311 horsepower and 293 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission that allows the car to enjoy fuel efficiency of 18 city/29 hwy mpg for the rear-wheel drive, and 16 city/25 hwy mpg for the all-wheel drive version.

The transmissions, while both eight-speed automatics are geared differently for the V6 and V8. The second engine offered is the 5.0-liter V8 engine that offers a very powerful 420 horsepower and 383 lb.-ft. of torque. When paired with the transmission, this power train will offer fuel economy numbers at 15 city/23 hwy mpg, which is really good for a V8 engine. This powertrain is only offered set up as all-wheel drive taking the decision away and adding the necessary control to tame this powerful beast.

The interior of the Genesis is meant to appeal to all generations, but mostly be geared for the younger, more affluent crowd. The cabin offers style and sophistication and uses real wood and metal accents throughout the dashboard and instrument area. The feeling is spacious and stylish as well as comfortable. The materials used are high class and very easy to enjoy and the combination of complementing colors helps to attract a vast audience. The technology of the controls is first rate by use of the touch screen, scroll wheel and push buttons.

From the outside many adjectives are available to describe the Genesis including beautiful, sophisticated, gorgeous, and eye-catching. The Genesis is sure to add curb appeal to any home once parked in the driveway and offers great lines and curves that keep the eye moving across the entire vehicle. The front grill is horizontally vented and flanked by high quality HID headlights. Many vehicles stop short of the trunk but not the Genesis. The lines and curves continue the entire length to ensure the vehicle is finished as well as great looking. The final touch is added by the beautifully designed wheels that are mag-inspired and multi-spoked for interest and appeal.

The Genesis is offered with a great list of standard features to allow owners who have to purchase the base model plenty of equipment to enjoy. This list of features includes a navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, nine airbags, a hands-free Smart Trunk opener, the Blue Link infotainment system, paddle shifters, heated front seats, a 12-way power adjustable driver’s seat, push button starting and tire pressure monitoring. All of this ensures the Genesis never falls out of the luxury category even at the base model and price point.

The optional features list is lengthy and really allows the Genesis to try and find a class that is higher than luxury in its offerings. The optional equipment list includes a heads up display, a 16-way power adjustable driver’s seat, a 17-speaker Lexicon surround sound audio system, a 9.2-inch high definition navigation screen, a rearview camera, front and rear parking assistance, headlight washer, all-wheel drive for the V6 models, a power rear sunshade, Lane Departure Warning system and Lane Keep Assistance. This list of features puts the Genesis very high on the map of luxury vehicles and is sure to make it one that many of the corporate leaders and up and comers will be looking to drive in the next model year.

The new generation of Genesis offers a starting price point at $38,950 for the base V6 model with rear-wheel drive. By offering such a reasonable price the Genesis is affordable for many more than just the corporate leaders of today. The all-wheel drive can be added at an additional price of $2,500 and a fully loaded V6 model will reach up to the price just below $53,000. The V8 model is a bit more in line with other luxury vehicles starting out at $52,450 and heading as high as $56,000 for a fully loaded model. No matter which Genesis is chosen the owner is sure to fully enjoy the power, driving pleasure, and technology offered across the entire line.