A big problem for the Germans. That is what the reviewer said in the review:
Hyundai enters 2009 with an all-new sedan delivering surprising performance in every respect. Actually, the surprise is even greater when you consider that, barely 25 years ago, the Stellar stood as the flagship car in the same exact showrooms.
Of course, evolution holds countless surprises, but no one ever expected such a radical shift. Last year, as the Korean automaker finally unveiled the much-anticipated production variant of its full-size sedan concept, a lot of people thought the folks at Hyundai were exaggerating when comparing their Genesis to such well-renowned models as the Infiniti M45, BMW 550i, Mercedes-Benz E550 and Lexus GS 460. Even more surprising is the fact that all these cars boast a V8 engine instead of the base V6.
Admittedly, though, the new 2009 Genesis truly lives up to the company's promise. Obviously, I had my share of doubts before going out on a road test, but once I got behind the wheel and swallowed a few kilometers, it became clear that this sedan is just as competent as Hyundai claimed it would be.
Naysayers will tell you that the Genesis lacks the prestige and pedigree of a true premium sedan. Maybe, but how can you possibly justify paying $30,000 more for a three-pointed silver star or a blue-and-white roundel?
Styling matters and, in this case, the Genesis looks like an aesthetic melting pot of premium brands. The front grille and headlights (Mercedes-Benz), the rear taillights (Infiniti) and the roofline (BMW) are all reminiscent of another car. However, when put side by side, the Hyundai is decidedly unique. Sure, a bit more distinctiveness would have set the car further apart, but using a classic, understated approach also has benefits.
Likewise, the interior is similar to a competitor's, arguably the benchmark in the premium full-size sedan segment: the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Material selection defies all expectations with durable, high-quality leather throughout the cabin and wood appliqués that add a warm, refined touch to the package. Overall fit and finish as well as noise levels are on par with the segment's best.
Occupants also benefit from a full selection of comfort and convenience features making the Genesis even more user-friendly. There's a high-definition navigation display and all the needed bells and whistles. Plus, the seats are comfortable (though they lack some side support) and generous in terms of passenger room. The front buckets are heated and the driver even gets a ventilated cushion. On the flip side, the rear seatbacks do not fold forward and the center load-through is too small to accommodate a snowboard.
And then there's the engine... Read more here...
Hyundai enters 2009 with an all-new sedan delivering surprising performance in every respect. Actually, the surprise is even greater when you consider that, barely 25 years ago, the Stellar stood as the flagship car in the same exact showrooms.
Of course, evolution holds countless surprises, but no one ever expected such a radical shift. Last year, as the Korean automaker finally unveiled the much-anticipated production variant of its full-size sedan concept, a lot of people thought the folks at Hyundai were exaggerating when comparing their Genesis to such well-renowned models as the Infiniti M45, BMW 550i, Mercedes-Benz E550 and Lexus GS 460. Even more surprising is the fact that all these cars boast a V8 engine instead of the base V6.
Admittedly, though, the new 2009 Genesis truly lives up to the company's promise. Obviously, I had my share of doubts before going out on a road test, but once I got behind the wheel and swallowed a few kilometers, it became clear that this sedan is just as competent as Hyundai claimed it would be.
Naysayers will tell you that the Genesis lacks the prestige and pedigree of a true premium sedan. Maybe, but how can you possibly justify paying $30,000 more for a three-pointed silver star or a blue-and-white roundel?
Styling matters and, in this case, the Genesis looks like an aesthetic melting pot of premium brands. The front grille and headlights (Mercedes-Benz), the rear taillights (Infiniti) and the roofline (BMW) are all reminiscent of another car. However, when put side by side, the Hyundai is decidedly unique. Sure, a bit more distinctiveness would have set the car further apart, but using a classic, understated approach also has benefits.
Likewise, the interior is similar to a competitor's, arguably the benchmark in the premium full-size sedan segment: the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Material selection defies all expectations with durable, high-quality leather throughout the cabin and wood appliqués that add a warm, refined touch to the package. Overall fit and finish as well as noise levels are on par with the segment's best.
Occupants also benefit from a full selection of comfort and convenience features making the Genesis even more user-friendly. There's a high-definition navigation display and all the needed bells and whistles. Plus, the seats are comfortable (though they lack some side support) and generous in terms of passenger room. The front buckets are heated and the driver even gets a ventilated cushion. On the flip side, the rear seatbacks do not fold forward and the center load-through is too small to accommodate a snowboard.
And then there's the engine... Read more here...
