Hyundai has made strides, but the Genesis still isn't a serious threat to the Audi and BMW establishment.
The 2015 Genesis features an overall length of 16.37 feet, overall width of 6.2 feet and overall height of 4.85 feet. In particular, its wheelbase was extended almost 3 inches to 9.87 feet compared to its predecessor, providing extra space in the cabin. A Genesis coup will also be released later.
As in the outgoing model, Four different engines make up the powertrain lineup for the 2015 Genesis. In the U.S., expect to see the base model feature a 3.8-liter V-6 rated at 333 horsepowerand a range-topper powered by a 5.0-liter V-8 good for about 429 horsepower. Elsewhere, Hyundai will offer 3.0- and 3.3-liter units.
There is no engine stop-start system, and Hyundai has no plans to offer a four-cylinder or diesel as the Germans do, so the new Genesis isn?t likely to be substantially more efficient. The outgoing car?s hydraulically assisted steering has been replaced by an electric power-steering setup working through a variable-ratio rack. Electronic suspension control has also reduced the roll motion through corners, and allowed sportier road-holding combined with a more supple ride. An electronically controlled brake system, with an advanced traction control system aids the car through corners. Furthermore, a new electronic power steering system provides high-speed stability and direct response at low and medium speeds.
Inside, the Genesis adopts center controls from Hyundai's pricier Equus sedan. This year's center display measures 8 inches or 9.2 inches with a 1,280-by-720 pixel display; the outgoing Genesis has 7- or 8-inch displays that topped out at 800 by 480 pixels. The new system offers Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Apple's Siri support, various apps and Google points of interest. It's unclear if that requires a separate internet subscription, however materials include real aluminum ; but still fake wood.
Safety features include lane departure warning and mitigation systems, blind spot warnings, rear cross-traffic alert and adaptive cruise control with emergency auto-braking.
Hyundai estimates it will sell 62,000 Genesis sedans annually, split evenly between the Korean and international markets. Sales in the U.S. will start next fall, making this a 2015 model. Pricing should stay close to the $35,095 starting price of the outgoing model.
Credit: Autoblog, MotorAuthority, Cars.com blog, Autoguide.