Non R-Spec 5.0 (2012) on Hyundaiusa.com

[Mark_888]

Is it just me or does the member seem to an issue with the R-Spec? I new here but it seems really obvious.

Mark, since you are so knowledgeable of the BMW 550 and the Geni R-Spec, would you mind posting the MSRP for similarly equipped vehicles??? The price diff might explain the compliant issue you refer to.

When it comes to bang for the buck, the R-Spec smokes the field.

I don't have an issue with the R-Spec. I, like quite a few in the automotive press, said the suspension is a bit harsh on less than perfect roads (which not all reviewers even tried). I never said that the the 550i is a better deal than R-Spec, I said that BMW's in general and 550i in specific, has a firmer ride than the R-Spec but is more compliant than the R-Spec or any 2009-2011 Genesis sedan. So this whole dichotomy between firmness/soft and harsh/compliant is false. A firm suspension, even a very firm suspension, does not have to be unnecessarily harsh.

I also said that the new 2012 Genesis 5.0 without R-Spec suspension is going to crush R-Spec sales, because I think most buyers want the 5.0 HP, but not necessarily a harsher ride than the other 2012 models (which are pleasantly firm to start with). Those who disagree are welcome to offer their own opinions without personal attacks against me.

I really don't want to rehash all these suspension issues, since there are thousands of posts regarding this subject on this forum going back 3 years. I expect the next generation Genesis (2014 MY ?) to have an improved suspension again without an increase in cost (at least not due the suspension). But even the 2012 3.8, 4.6, and 5.0 are much improved over the 2010/2011 suspensions, which were an improvement over the 2009.

 

[Driver]

It makes no sense what Hyundai is doing with 2 versions of same 5.0 engine that are $1000 apart. Why not just offer R-Spec with multiple suspension/engine mode (sport/tour/economy) like Lexus has in the new GS350? Also from all the issues I've been reading about current generation Genesis on this forum from some of the current owners Hyundai really needs to work out these issues (engine/transmission rattle & various electronic complaints).

 

[Mark_888]

It makes no sense what Hyundai is doing with 2 versions of same 5.0 engine that are $1000 apart. Why not just offer R-Spec with multiple suspension/engine mode (sport/tour/economy) like Lexus has in the new GS350? Also from all the issues I've been reading about current generation Genesis on this forum from some of the current owners Hyundai really needs to work out these issues (engine/transmission rattle & various electronic complaints).

The Korean version of the Genesis has had an adjustable air suspension option from day 1 (not sure when the first Genesis was available in Korea, but at least since 2009). But cost was obviously a factor in not offering that on US models. The Equus has an adjustable air suspension, but costs a lot more.

But keep in mind that 4.6 will likely be discontinued, so if there is only one 5.0 (and no 4.6), then making it an R-Spec in all cases makes little sense.

 

[Mark_888]

I just noticed that the new Genesis 5.0 sedan engine and/transmission is different than the Genesis R-Spec 5.0:

According to Hyundai website:

Genesis 5.0:
HP 429
17/26 MPG

Genesis R-Spec:
HP 429
16/25 MPG

I assume the difference is the transmisison shifting or ECU. Final gear ratio is the same.

 

[Driver]

The Korean version of the Genesis has had an adjustable air suspension option from day 1 (not sure when the first Genesis was available in Korea, but at least since 2009). But cost was obviously a factor in not offering that on US models. The Equus has an adjustable air suspension, but costs a lot more.

Not sure what additional cost would be but I doubt it would be that much more. This feature was available even in my old Mit. 3000GT. Also what Lexus is doing in the new GS350 seems like much more advanced version. Apparently Lexus modes change the dynamics of engine, transmission and suspension from Economy, Normal, Sport & Sport +. They even had an additional button for Snow mode for guys like me living in winter wonderland. In my opinion cars at these class/price require flexibility to suit different driving conditions and styles. They could have it as an option if they didn't want to add it in to the base.

 

[cmunic8r99]

The 5.0 does come in white, silver and black.

I really wish they sold the R-Spec in white:

 

[jmo51]

I don't have an issue with the R-Spec. I, like quite a few in the automotive press, said the suspension is a bit harsh on less than perfect roads (which not all reviewers even tried). I never said that the the 550i is a better deal than R-Spec, I said that BMW's in general and 550i in specific, has a firmer ride than the R-Spec but is more compliant than the R-Spec or any 2009-2011 Genesis sedan. So this whole dichotomy between firmness/soft and harsh/compliant is false. A firm suspension, even a very firm suspension, does not have to be unnecessarily harsh.

I also said that the new 2012 Genesis 5.0 without R-Spec suspension is going to crush R-Spec sales, because I think most buyers want the 5.0 HP, but not necessarily a harsher ride than the other 2012 models (which are pleasantly firm to start with). Those who disagree are welcome to offer their own opinions without personal attacks against me.

I really don't want to rehash all these suspension issues, since there are thousands of posts regarding this subject on this forum going back 3 years. I expect the next generation Genesis (2014 MY ?) to have an improved suspension again without an increase in cost (at least not due the suspension). But even the 2012 3.8, 4.6, and 5.0 are much improved over the 2010/2011 suspensions, which were an improvement over the 2009.

As I recall i said that I prefer the firmer ride of the R-Spec. I'm new here so have no idea about 3 years of debate regarding the vehicle's suspension. What I am aware of is that the R-Spec is new to the line up as is its sport tune suspension. If you could point me to the comments where R-Spec owners dog the suspension in their cars, I'd appreciate it. Again, I like the way my R-Spec rides.

You might be right with your non R-Spec 5.0 prediction, however, the R-Spec 19's and headlights are a nice touch.

I agree with the member who commented on the need for a white R-Spec.

 

[Seattle Genesis]

I own an R Spec and the suspension could be a bit more compliant over rough roads, but its a huge improvement over my 2009 V6 model so Im pretty happy with the change. Every now and then I get that hard thump when I go ever a pot hole.

 

[jmo51]

I own an R Spec and the suspension could be a bit more compliant over rough roads, but its a huge improvement over my 2009 V6 model so Im pretty happy with the change. Every now and then I get that hard thump when I go ever a pot hole.

Thanks for you input. Guess I'm lucky not to have hit any serious pot holes.

 

[Glashub]

Oh man, an R-spec is just not feasible in LA. Had a SH-AWD TL with a far more sophisticated suspension and I nearly had a nervous breakdown every time I drove. The roads here are just terrible. And when they fill a pot hole they leave a huge lump. The earth shifting all of the time wreaks havoc on the streets. The 4.6 is just perfect for a town like LA and I never feel like I'm lacking power. With all due respect; if I cared about 429 hp, I'd be invested in speed and the R-spec will never win a drag race with a lot of cars or hang with a lot of cars in the canyons. So what is it, really? My 02. That said it does provide several nice upgrades for about $1000 more than the 4.6.

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[jmo51]

Oh man, an R-spec is just not feasible in LA. Had a SH-AWD TL with a far more sophisticated suspension and I nearly had a nervous breakdown every time I drove. The roads here are just terrible. And when they fill a pot hole they leave a huge lump. The earth shifting all of the time wreaks havoc on the streets. The 4.6 is just perfect for a town like LA and I never feel like I'm lacking power. With all due respect; if I cared about 429 hp, I'd be invested in speed and the R-spec will never win a drag race with a lot of cars or hang with a lot of cars in the canyons. So what is it, really? My 02. That said it does provide several nice upgrades for about $1000 more than the 4.6.

Some like the extra ponies, me being one of them. I didn't find the 4.6 and the R-Spec to be that much different in the suspension department. I didn't realize that similarly equipped 4.6's and R-Specs were only a $1000 apart in MSRP.

To own an R-Spec is to love the R-Spec, of course no doubt I'm biased.

 

[nextcar]

I just noticed that the new Genesis 5.0 sedan engine and/transmission is different than the Genesis R-Spec 5.0:

According to Hyundai website:

Genesis 5.0:
HP 429
17/26 MPG

Genesis R-Spec:
HP 429
16/25 MPG

I assume the difference is the transmisison shifting or ECU. Final gear ratio is the same.

also need to consider different wheel/tire size.

 

[Mark_888]

I didn't realize that similarly equipped 4.6's and R-Specs were only a $1000 apart in MSRP.

They are $2000 apart. The new 5.0 Genesis will split the difference in price between 4.6 and R-Spec and will be $1000 less than R-Spec. Many are speculating that 4.6 will be discontinued once inventory is gone.

 

[Mark_888]

If you could point me to the comments where R-Spec owners dog the suspension in their cars, I'd appreciate it.

I never said any R-Spec owners on this forum dog'ed the suspension. I said that quite a few (but not all) automotive press reviewers who drove all three 2012 trim levels said things like "R-Spec suspension is unnecessarily harsh."

My main point (which seems to be ignored) is that I think people mainly want the 429 HP (and not so much the sport suspension), and when the 5.0 is available, then not as many R-Specs will be sold. The regular Genesis models are not exactly soft/cushy in the suspension and are relatively firm compared to American luxury cars.

 

[Glashub]

In the interest of fair reporting - from Car and Driver - "What we were able to discern is that the moderately higher spring rates somewhat negate the other 2012 Genesis’s breakthroughs in the ride-and-handling arena, rediscovering some of the flintiness that other models thankfully left behind."

http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/2012-hyundai-genesis-r-spec-50-first-drive-review

 

[jmo51]

From Motorweek

But the 5.0 R-Spec is about more than just a new engine. It is a total package with unique 19-inch alloy wheels, exclusive head lights with dark chrome inserts, a new 8-speed R-Spec-tuned sport transmission, and modified suspension and steering. While those tweaks weren’t quite enough to make this a pure performance car, it did show improvement through our handling course.

Where the original Genesis sedan had a commendable balance between luxury and sport, the new car refines that equation even further. Initially you still note the soft springs and body roll that gives the Genesis such a superior ride. But, as speeds increased, it actually responds better; with a nice, planted feel and sharper turn-ins. Bigger front brake rotors helped shorten stops from 60 to a very good 120-feet, six feet shorter than the original.

http://www.motorweek.org/reviews/road_tests/2012_hyundai_genesis_50_r_spec

Opinion and personal preference

 

[Glashub]

"In the automotive alphabet, the letter "R" has always stood for performance. By branding the company's new top-of-the-line Genesis with the sports-oriented letter, Hyundai may have set buyers up for disappointment. While the R-Spec is an impressive vehicle in its own right, the four-door is far from a legitimate sports sedan. Unfortunately, with 43 more horsepower than the outgoing V6 and improved fuel economy, the base 3.8-liter Genesis is more appealing than ever. With a snappier final drive ratio than its V8 brethren, the V6 even feels pretty quick off the line, making the extra coin for the 5.0 R-Spec even more difficult to justify. If you're signing on the dotted line for a Genesis, stick with the base model and use some of the cash you saved to pick up a set of the Bridgestone rubber available on the big R for a little more grip. You'll be happier in the long run."

http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/21/2012-hyundai-genesis-5-0-r-spec-first-drive-review/

Dude, we could go back and forth but what's the point? We all win by buying a Genesis.

 

[jmo51]

"In the automotive alphabet, the letter "R" has always stood for performance. By branding the company's new top-of-the-line Genesis with the sports-oriented letter, Hyundai may have set buyers up for disappointment. While the R-Spec is an impressive vehicle in its own right, the four-door is far from a legitimate sports sedan. Unfortunately, with 43 more horsepower than the outgoing V6 and improved fuel economy, the base 3.8-liter Genesis is more appealing than ever. With a snappier final drive ratio than its V8 brethren, the V6 even feels pretty quick off the line, making the extra coin for the 5.0 R-Spec even more difficult to justify. If you're signing on the dotted line for a Genesis, stick with the base model and use some of the cash you saved to pick up a set of the Bridgestone rubber available on the big R for a little more grip. You'll be happier in the long run."

http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/21/2012-hyundai-genesis-5-0-r-spec-first-drive-review/

Dude, we could go back and forth but what's the point? We all win by buying a Genesis.

Agreed

 

[newman]

Dude, we could go back and forth but what's the point? We all win by buying a Genesis.

Hey Glashub - how are you?

All -

I think that the entire back-and-forth could have been avoided if the word 'back-breaking' had not been used (by Mark_888). When I read through this thread that is the point that seems to start the contention and kept people from discussing the bigger points with regard to the 5.0 non-rspec.

Regarding handling - I did invest in upgraded tires as the article suggests (conti extreme contact DW summer tires) and I am amazed how the rspec handles. I took a 45-degree turn at aver 45 mph and the back end barely broke loose at all. As far as comfort - I will say that each person has their own preference but I will cry foul if someone calls the R-spec back-breaking.

Cheers,
Newman

 

[Mark_888]

I think that the entire back-and-forth could have been avoided if the word 'back-breaking' had not been used (by Mark_888).

Several professional automotive journalists who initially reviewed the R-Spec said the suspension was "unnecessarily harsh" and other similar comments. These comments were documented in links provided elsewhere in this forum. Obviously, this only occurs on rough roads (I know, because the 2009 4.8 and 4.6 Genesis is even harsher than the 2012 R-Spec), and would not be noticed on relatively smooth roads.

So if I said "unnecessarily harsh" would that make you feel any better? I doubt it, because as one R-Spec owner admitted, he is an R-Spec owner and therefore biased.