3.8 w tech package vs 4.6

[waveman]

I was under the impression that the 4.6 has essentially all the add-ons that the 3.8 with the tech package does. But apparently that's not correct - for example, the 4.6 has halogen headlights, while the tech package includes Xenon bulbs.

Hyundai's Web site isn't much help. The feature comparison shows that halogen headlights are standard on both models, but says that HID lights are optional on the 3.8 and standard on the 4.6. Adding to the confusion, the sales person at the Hyundai dealer I visited asked me if I wanted the tech package on the 4.6. But the Web site and brochure say that there is no such thing.

So, to those in the know, what's the scoop? Are there items in the 3.8 tech package that you just can't get with the 4.6 from the factory?

 

[tjc78]

As far as I know the 4.6 comes fully loaded with all of the "tech" package features from the 3.8. In addition you get the woodgrain steering wheel, lighted sill plates, the auto-dimming outside mirror, larger brakes and a limited slip rear all not found on the 3.8.

There was a time you could get a "base" V8 w/out the tech package but not any longer.

 

[msitter]

As far as I know the 4.6 comes fully loaded with all of the "tech" package features from the 3.8. In addition you get the woodgrain steering wheel, lighted sill plates, the auto-dimming outside mirror, larger brakes and a limited slip rear all not found on the 3.8.

There was a time you could get a "base" V8 w/out the tech package but not any longer.

That is pretty much as I know it as well. I don't see one as being any better than the other. It just comes down to is the V8 worth an extra 2 grand to you. Both drive well and the question becomes is the V8 extra power worth the trade off of better fuel economy from the V6. The small other differences are kind of inconsequential. To me, the V8 and its extra power was important but I don't drive enough to make the economy question important.

 

[robthoke]

When the 2009 Genesis 4.6 was introduced, there were two version - Base and Base w/Tech Pkg. The Tech Pkg gave you the Lexicon 17 speaker navigation system, HID auto level lights, Rear Backup Camera, Adaptive front Lighting System, Front and Rear Parking Assist Sensors, Cooled Driver's Seat and Bluetooth Phone Sys/Display. That is what I got and I just read this off of my manufacturer's sticker. For 2010, Hyundai just offered the 4.6 with the Tach Pkg because most 4.6 sales were equipped that way. In additional to the Tech Pkg and V8 you also get very stout ZF 6 speed transmission which is not offered with the V6. With the mileage difference between the V6 and the V8 being minimal, I opted for the 4.6 with it's power. There are people on this site who claim close to 30 mpg with the V8. I got close to 28.5 on an 8,000 mile trip earlier this year. You simply can't complain about that.

 

[waveman]

Thanks to everyone who replied. But I'm still confused about one thing: Hyundai's Web site (see attached) says that HID headlights (which are the same as xenons, as far as I know) are optional on the 3.8. But it also says that the 4.6 comes with both halogens and HIDs. Is that because one is for low beam and the other for high beam or something similar?

 

[msitter]

HID headlights are part of the Tech pkg and come on both the V6 and V8 when equipped with the Tech pkg.

 

[6789]

For 2011, Xenons come
1. standard on every 4.6L; that trim level is completely equipped.
2. as an option on 3.8 L only via Tech Package.

 

[CanukV6]

Thanks to everyone who replied. But I'm still confused about one thing: Hyundai's Web site (see attached) says that HID headlights (which are the same as xenons, as far as I know) are optional on the 3.8. But it also says that the 4.6 comes with both halogens and HIDs. Is that because one is for low beam and the other for high beam or something similar?

Yes, the HID's are fitted on the Low Beam only. The Hi-Beam is a regular Halogen Bulb, as are the Foglamps.

 

[zimmy]

I'm really struggling over this choice...

Someone's review said the 4.6 was a harsher ride than the 3.8. Another review said the 3.8 engine is more reliable. Any thoughts on the above?

 

[homeofstone]

Drive both on highway, city and back roads, then pick the one you like. I have a 2011 4.6 w/tech and I would not change a thing except get one with Bridgestone Serinity tires. Dunlops are just not safe in heavy rain or snow.

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[zimmy]

Our dealers in Atlanta only have the Dunlop tires...
No real option, so will have to make the best of it.

 

[homeofstone]

If you buy new try to get the dealer to switch the tires to Bridgestone Serenity, Michelin Pilot, or Continental DWS (check Tirerack.com to see the test and surveys) I wish we had known about the Dunlops before we made our deal. Good luck.

 

[ShoNuff]

Our dealers in Atlanta only have the Dunlop tires...
No real option, so will have to make the best of it.

zimmy, you might want to double-check that. When I was at Ed Voyles a few months ago getting my Genny serviced, I noted that the cars on the lot had something other than Dunlops (sorry, but I forgot now what they were - Yokohamas possibly). My service rep told me that the dealership wasn't selling with Dunlops anymore.

 

[zimmy]

Okay... Finally decided and went for the 4.6 which I will pick up tomorrow. I couldn't get anywhere arguing to change out the Dunlop tires for Serenity, etc. They just don't carry them and the staff was very confident that the new Dunlops on the 2011 are excellent and they've heard no complaints (of course, that's what I would expect them to say). The salesperson said if I really wanted, I could take the car to Firestone and see if they will do a trade and let me pay the difference.

Anyway, I drove them so crazy on the price (and think that I got a great deal), I just didn't want to push that hard on the tires. Plus they are throwing in the winged Genesis badge.

If the tires were really unsafe, I don't think they would want to take on the extra liability, so I think I'll trust the Dunlops for now...

 

[Cut-Throat]

The Dunlops are fine except for driving in snow. I just changed my Dunlops for the Bridgestone Serenties. I can tell a big difference in the snow, but not on the dry pavement.

 

[homeofstone]

Okay... Finally decided and went for the 4.6 which I will pick up tomorrow. I couldn't get anywhere arguing to change out the Dunlop tires for Serenity, etc. They just don't carry them and the staff was very confident that the new Dunlops on the 2011 are excellent and they've heard no complaints (of course, that's what I would expect them to say). The salesperson said if I really wanted, I could take the car to Firestone and see if they will do a trade and let me pay the difference.

Anyway, I drove them so crazy on the price (and think that I got a great deal), I just didn't want to push that hard on the tires. Plus they are throwing in the winged Genesis badge.

If the tires were really unsafe, I don't think they would want to take on the extra liability, so I think I'll trust the Dunlops for now...

Enjoy your new 4.6. We love ours and the folks at my wife's office in Atlanta always want to ride in her car to lunch. They always complement the leather interior. BTW our 3 month old 2011 4.6 just turned 10,000 miles.

 

[dg_moore]

The Dunlops are fine except for driving in snow. I just changed my Dunlops for the Bridgestone Serenties. I can tell a big difference in the snow, but not on the dry pavement.

+1
If you're driving in snow you will not be happy; otherwise the Dunlops will be ok. I have a set of snow tires and was originally thinking of replacing the Dunlops with Continentals or Sereneties or something in the spring, but having driven the Dunlops 10,000 miles I'm not unhappy with them and will probably keep them for a couple of years.