The 2009 Hyundai Genesis stands out for its powerful yet smooth engines, comfortable drive, abundant features and options, and value for the money.
Even the entry-level engine is a powerful 3.8 liter V6 that produces 290 horsepower. But if that's not enough, there's now a 4.6 liter V8 that delivers an impressive 375 horsepower. Both are coupled to a rear-wheel six-speed automatic transmission.
Throw in a well-tuned suspension, a bevy of luxury features and an attractive and high quality interior design, and you've got a vehicle that's well worth some serious consideration.
Upscale standard features on the Genesis 3.8 V6 include 17 inch alloy wheels, leather upholstery, heated front seats, full power accessories, eight-way driver and four-way passenger power front seats, cruise control, dual-zone automatic climate control, seven-speaker sound, CD player, satellite radio, iPod and auxiliary input jacks, and a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel.
The Genesis 4.6 liter V8 adds 18 inch alloy wheels, exterior chrome accents, premium leather upholstery (including dash and doors), wood-and-leather-trimmed steering wheel, eight-way power passenger seat, driver memory settings, auto-dimming rearview mirror, upgraded audio system with a 6-disc CD changer and 15 Lexicon speakers, rain-sensing wipers, and a rear power sunshade.
For those who would like 4.6 features on the 3.8 model, most are included in the Premium Package.
There's also an available Technology Package for both models that includes a hard-drive-based navigation system with real-time traffic, a rearview camera, Bluetooth, xenon headlights, trip computer, front and rear park assist, a cooled driver seat (on the 4.6 only), and a Logic 7 surround-sound audio system.
With premium grade gasoline, the V8 makes 375 horsepower and 333 pound-feet of torque. With regular fuel, those figures are slightly lower at 368 hp and 324 lb-ft. The V8 Genesis has also been timed at 0 to 60 mph in a fleet 5.9 seconds and just 14 seconds for the quarter-mile, very fast for a large luxury sedan.
EPA gas mileage estimates for the V6 are 18 mpg city and 27 mpg on the highway. For the V8, it's only modestly lower at 17 city and 25 highway, primary due to the fuel efficiency of the six-speed automatic transmission.
Standard Genesis safety features include antilock disc brakes (ABS), traction control, stability control, active front head restraints, front and rear-seat side airbags, and full-length head curtain airbags.
Update: Weak Economy Leads To Lower Genesis Prices:
Hyundai sales fell again last month, evidence of a continuing weak economy and an especially weak car buying trend. There's some good deals to be had right now in this very soft car market.
How To Buy A New Hyundai Genesis At The Lowest Price: Before listing MSRP and invoice prices for the 2009 Genesis, here's a technique that will show you the best way to buy one at the best price, especially given the current slow economic environment.