368HP Hyundai? 2009 Genesis for U.S. unveiled
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As Detroit approaches the door closer than ever, Hyundai has released the first official images and details regarding the automaker's attempt to revitalize the brand's image. After waiting nearly 3 years in front of our computers for the release of arguably the most anticipated car for 2008, Hyundai knocked on our door with a bonanza of surprises (that's car-language for features) that got us going already. The Genesis, Hyundai's first rear-wheel drive luxury sedan, mainly targets the potential Chrysler 300 and Pontiac G8 customers. Set to be first unveiled at the North American International Autoshow in Detroit, Hyundai claims the Genesis will be priced a dash under the $30K mark when it goes on sale this summer.
Starting off our round-up with the design, we can definitely figure that Hyundai placed a few design benchmarks like the Lexus LS460 for the front and the BMW 5-Series at the rear. The side...well we've seen the kink in tons of other cars before so we won't put the Genesis in the spotlight. However, all in all, Hyundai has managed to combine the elements into an elegant solution that isn't too tawdry or flashy. In addition to that, Hyundai has gone badge-less with the front grille indicating that they knew a prominent slanted H at the front would hurt sales.
[Source: Hyundai of America]
Follow the jump to continue reading, view more images of the Genesis, and the official press release.
The headline for the Genesis tabloid would be features, features, and more features. Standard high-class items include soft-touch leather-trimmed dash, Bluetooth, AUX/USB inputs, power rear sunshade, heated and cooled driver's seat, electronic parking brake, and push-start button. Optional features include a 17-speaker Lexicon surround sound audio system (only found in the Rolls-Royce Phantom as of now), an 8-inch navigation system, Smart Cruise Control, HD Radio, a 30GB hard drive, and a back-up camera. In addition to that, electronic stability control is standard and Adaptive Front Lighting System is available as an option. Now where's the inhaler I've been looking for...?
The ambush of impressive features doesn't terminate yet. The Genesis will be available in three powertrain configurations. Starting up the ladder is a 3.3L 268 horsepower Lambda V6, and in the middle of the pack is a 3.8L 290 horsepower Lambda V6. The leader of the hound is Hyundai's new 4.6L Tau V8 that produces an impressive 368 horsepower. That's more horsepower than the BMW 750i, Audi A8, Lexus GS450, and the Pontiac G8. The V6 engines are mated to a 6-speed Aisin automatic transmission while the V8 engine receives a ZF 6-speed automatic transmission. All three engines are recommended to run on 87 octane fuel. For an engine that boasts a 0-60 time of under 6 seconds and produces more than 80 horsepower per liter, that's mighty impressive both in performance and the wallet. The Genesis also boasts an impressive 53/47 weight distribution.
As with all Hyundais ranging from the Accent to the Veracruz have, the Genesis will be covered by a five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper protection, 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, and seven-year/unlimited mileage anti-perforation coverage. The Genesis is due to go on sale this summer.
http://thecarblogger.blogspot.com/20...i-genesis.html
Read the specs and the features.