What is it? Hyundai unveiled the production version of its first rear-wheel drive luxury sedan at the Detroit auto show. The Genesis will have a choice of three powertrains: a 3.3-liter V6, a 3.8-liter V6, and a new 4.6-liter V8. Starting at under $30,000, the Hyundai hopes the Genesis will be strong competitor to $60,000 premium sedans such as the Mercedes E-Class, Infiniti M, and Lexus GS.
Hyundai will offer a host of safety features on the Genesis including standard stability control, eight airbags, electronic active head restraints, and adaptive cruise control, which adjusts the vehicle speed to maintain distance from the vehicle ahead.
What is new or notable? Hyundai claims the V8, dubbed the Tau, will produce 368 hp on regular fuel. With the Tau matched with a six-speed automatic transmission, Hyundai says it will propel the Genesis from 0-60 mph in less than six seconds.
CR's Take: The Genesis is the beginning of an ambitious plan by Hyundai that reminds us of the first Lexus LS, which shocked the world in 1989. Too bad Hyundai chose not to display its logo on the nose of its flagship sedan. Our brief, early experience with the car indicates that they have nothing to be ashamed of.
When will it be available? Summer 2008.
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