Which is the Best Genesis?

[RonLove]

I’m looking for a first generation Genesis and am looking for the best model/version. I’ve narrowed it down to 2:
2012 4.6 v8 w/ 128k miles OR a 2013 3.8 v6 tech. Pkg. w/ 140k miles.
Of the 2 which would you buy or for about the same price is there another model you’d recommend?

I was told to avoid the 5.0 Rspec, is that still the case?

(Thought I’d create a new thread with a more appropriate title.)

 

[Richard Mississauga]

There is only one true answer to the question "Which is the best Genesis" - the correct answer is "Mine"

Get an independent inspection on both of those cars and buy the one that shows less problems.

 

[Qship]

Judging by the amount of transmission failures I've read about in various Genesis sedan owner groups on FB. Personally I would avoid the 8 speed transmission models. So that rules out the R-spec entirely. I'm not sure what year the switch happened on the 4.6 and 3.8 (2012 or 2013).
The 2009 was missing radar cruise and auto hold, so I would go with a 2010 or 2011 since those years used an Aisin 6 speed tranny for the 3.8 and a ZF 6 speed tranny for the 4.6. Both of those trannys are practically bulletproof compared to the 8 speed.

 

[Gunkk]

I’m looking for a first generation Genesis and am looking for the best model/version. I’ve narrowed it down to 2:
2012 4.6 v8 w/ 128k miles OR a 2013 3.8 v6 tech. Pkg. w/ 140k miles.
Of the 2 which would you buy or for about the same price is there another model you’d recommend?

I was told to avoid the 5.0 Rspec, is that still the case?

After 11 years of 1st generation Genesis ownership (09 and 12), I'll give you my 3-1/2 cents. Of all 1st generation Genesis cars, I would recommend the 2014 V6. Alternately, a 5.0 Rspec is fine as long as the car is 2013 or newer.

No matter which you choose, you'll want to budget accordingly for costs of ownership of an 8+ year old import car out of warranty. Prior to purchase I would recommend getting the car in front of a competent mechanic with a Hyundai GDS to make sure all the systems are in good shape.

 

[PMCErnie]

My advice is never buy any vehicle without some warranty coverage remaining. The words “money pit” will soon become meaningful. An 11 & 12 year old car with that kind of mileage is simply a money pit. Go find a nice ‘20 Sonata.

 

[NSXNEXT]

My advice is never buy any vehicle without some warranty coverage remaining. The words “money pit” will soon become meaningful. An 11 & 12 year old car with that kind of mileage is simply a money pit. Go find a nice ‘20 Sonata.

^^ This ^^
Unless your budget includes $,$$$ for upcoming repairs I'd look at a newer model anything. Even we'll maintained vehicles require age-basee maintenance items.