2009 Hyundai Genesis Preview

A New Beginning

Hyundai moves up-market with the Genesis, its new full-size flagship sedan.

Hyundai’s first rear-wheel-drive sedan, the 2009 Genesis, is designed to provide the space, power, and features of twice-as-expensive Lexus and Mercedes-Benz models. It will also compete with the likes of the Chrysler 300 and upcoming Pontiac G8.

The Genesis will start at less than $30,000 when it goes on sale this summer. For that relatively modest price, it will offer high-end options such as adaptive headlights that illuminate the road around curves, active cruise control that automatically slows the car when it senses another vehicle ahead, a rear back-up camera, and traffic reports via satellite radio, among others.

Performance will also be in line with top luxury sedans. Two high-output V6 engines will be offered, as well as an all-new 4.6-liter V8 that produces an estimated 368 hp — more power than the BMW 750i and Lexus GS 450h can muster.

A 268-hp 3.3-liter V6 will be the base engine; a 3.8-liter V6 upgrade engine brings close to 290 hp. Hyundai points out that all the engines slated for the Genesis, including the powerhouse V8, are designed to use regular gasoline. By comparison, most luxury sedans can only use more expensive premium fuel.

Check back for a full review.