Next Genesis will have AWD option. Plus more tidbits from CEO live chat

[Par Avion]

Hyundai USA CEO John K gave a live chat session last night with HyundaiThinkTank.com members. Here are some of the highlights:

- Confirmed next-gen Genesis platform will have AWD option
- Hyundai is considering a smaller Genesis sedan to slot beneath the current one
- Considering a "Genesis" SUV or CUV (not Veracruz)
- Genesis design language will continue to be "classic and athletic"
- Seperate "Genesis" sales channel is being researched
- Equus final name for the US still hasn't been decided
- They are considering a unique "concierge" type service for potential Equus buyers.
- Next-gen Azera design has recently been finalized. John says it looks "hot" and will run circles around the new Taurus SHO and Nissan Maxima.
- Next-gen Azera features Hyundai's new "fluidic sculpture" design language
- The "facelifted" Azera recently unveiled in S. Korea will come to US in 2011

Enjoy

 

[jwaters943]

As much as I love my Genesis, I'm equally as intrigued by his comments on the next-gen Azera.

Let's hope he's not just talking the talk ala Bob Lutz.

 

[Sayantsi]

It was an interesting discussion. I know Kia is buying defunct Saturn dealerships to build out its dealer network - I wonder if anything is also being bought with a Genesis brand in mind.

And I hope Hyundai doesn't try too hard like Honda/Acura did, and ruin its look.

 

[VivienM]

- Hyundai is considering a smaller Genesis sedan to slot beneath the current one

That'd be nice... but when might it be released?

 

[Galbi]

That'd be nice... but when might it be released?

If HMC gives the green light, we might not see it until the 24/7 2.0 product launch is complete. At the earliest model year 2013 or 2014.

If HMC decides on a seperate "Genesis" channel, then the proposed "Genesis " suv and baby Genesis's product development will accelerate. A real sports car based on the Genesis platform wont be too far behind after that. Yikes.

 

[BacktoHyundaibychoice]

Did Mr. K happen to say WHEN the next gen of Gen is due?

I'm hoping it's the '11 model...

 

[Sayantsi]

If its anything like Hyundai has typically done, there won't be a new model Genesis for another 5 years or so, with a major refresh along the way.

 

[ajls09873]

true or false?

 

[Par Avion]

That'd be nice... but when might it be released?

He didn't say.

 

[Par Avion]

Did Mr. K happen to say WHEN the next gen of Gen is due?

I'm hoping it's the '11 model...

Unfortunately no he didn't say when. The way he put it is that the next full redesign will have the option, so we're probably talking between 3-5 years form now.

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[Par Avion]

true or false?

??

 

[ORANGESS1]

How can I become a member on the HyundaiThinkTank.com?

 

[Dimitry]

If memory serves me right, there is a facelift for the 11 sedans. I would expect a new gen in 13 or 14

 

[jwaters943]

Did Mr. K happen to say WHEN the next gen of Gen is due?

I'm hoping it's the '11 model...

A more realistic realistic time frame is probably 2013/2014. The 2011 has already been spotted, and includes a minor exterior freshening w/ Equus-style exhaust finishers and rumored powertrain upgrades (est. 400hp V8 and 305hp V6, Hyundia-built 8 Speed Automatic).

 

[Par Avion]

How can I become a member on the HyundaiThinkTank.com?

It's by invite only. Private message me your email address and I'll send you an invite.

 

[realpix]

It's by invite only. Private message me your email address and I'll send you an invite.

I can't find the pm area.

I'd be interested - owned 3 hyundais.

rww@realpix.com