The Hyundai Genesis is a 4-door executive sedan manufactured and marketed by the South Korean car manufacturer Hyundai from 2008 to 2016 as the Hyundai Genesis and from 2016 to 2020 as the Genesis G80. The Hyundai Genesis debuted in 2008 and was renamed the G80 in 2017 after Hyundai separated Genesis from Hyundai. Internally known as the BH model, the Genesis was anticipated to cost $533 million to produce when unveiled at the 2007 New York International Auto Show.
History of the Hyundai Genesis
Hyundai Genesis First Generation (BH; 2008–2014)
This is Hyundai's newest vehicle, and it's a standout. First unveiled at the 2007 New York International Auto Show, the Genesis was launched in South Korea in 2008 as the Genesis Concept. Hyundai's newly built rear-wheel-drive model would be able to compete with premium sedan competitors like the Infiniti M, Mercedes-Benz E-Klasse, Lexus GS, and BMW 5 Series. Even though the Genesis model won't be available for purchase in Europe just yet, they predicted that Hyundai would introduce it to the continent soon. The Genesis was well-received when it arrived in the United States. Hyundai Motor America and Carbonfund.org presented the Genesis Forest Project at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto Show to counteract all 2009 Hyundai Genesis sedan emissions during their first year of sale in the United States. They retroactively applied the Genesis Forest Project to all 2009 Genesis sedan sales, which started in June and continued this approach until the end of the year. The first generation received updates for the 2010, 2012, and 2014 model years.
The available engines for the first generation Genesis model were the following:
- 3.3L Lambda II MPi V6
- 3.3L Lambda II GDi V6
- 3.8L Lambda II MPi V6
- 3.8L Lambda II GDi V6
- 4.6L Tau MPi V8
- 5.0L Tau GDi V8
For the transmissions: 6-speed Aisin B-600 automatic, 6-speed ZF 6HP26 automatic and 8-speed A8LR1/A8TR1 automatic.
Hyundai Genesis Second Generation (DH; 2013–2020)
At the 2014 North American Auto Show in Detroit, Hyundai debuted the second generation of the Genesis. The well-received luxury car has many choices and a slew of new features. Hyundai's Genesis was well on its way to becoming a luxury brand. Because of its unique look, the new generation Hyundai stood out from the other models in its lineup. Genesis and Equus sedans in North America were considered independent brands under Hyundai. Still, they were kept as Hyundai models until 2016 due to high costs and possible delays in their introduction in North America. As of the end of 2016, the Genesis brand in the United States was no longer affiliated with Hyundai. Because Lexus struggled to make a name for itself in Europe, it first excluded the Genesis model from European markets. The available engines for the second-generation vehicles were:
- 3.0L Lambda II GDi V6
- 3.3L Lambda II GDi V6
- 3.8L Lambda II GDi V6
- 5.0L Tau GDi V8
The model was available in one transmission only, and it is an 8-speed A8LR1/A8TR1 automatic gearbox.
Price
In 2017, Hyundai retailed the Genesis model with a starting original MSRP of $42,375 ($49,979 in 2022), which could go up to $55,525 ($65,489 in 2022).
Features
Interior Features of the Hyundai Genesis
The style isn't innovative for the model's cabin, but even base versions are well-equipped. Large windows and well-thought-out body structure features contribute to high outward visibility. Open-pore wood veneer and soft-touch plastics on the Ultimate trim make the dashboard appear premium, but specific components aren't as excellent as competing luxury sedans. However, despite its huge exterior proportions, the Genesis' cargo-hauling abilities come up short of those of its more compact counterparts. There is room in the trunk for a couple of sets of golf clubs, but larger goods will be difficult to fit.
Exterior Features of the Hyundai Genesis
The Genesis' body lines are as sleek and beautiful as its interior. The Genesis' hexagonal grille commands attention up front. From there, the long, beautiful lines of this premium sedan transmit a feeling of quality and elegance. When it comes to the trunk line, Audi A7 fastback styling comes to mind. The quad exhaust ports on the 5.0L V8-powered Genesis serve as a visual cue from the back. All versions have the new Genesis winged emblem on the back of the automated trunk.
Specs and Performance of the Hyundai Genesis
The Hyundai Genesis model was available as a front-engine car with a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) or four-wheel-drive (4WD) drivetrain. Hyundai installed five different engines for the second generation of the Genesis model:
- 3.0L Lambda II GDi V6
- 3.3L Lambda II GDi V6
- 3.8L Lambda II GDi V6
- 5.0L Tau GDi V8
Unfortunately, customers could only enjoy one transmission: an 8-speed A8LR1/A8TR1 automatic. The 5.0L Tau GDi V8 engine delivers 419 hp (313 kW) at 6,000 rpm and 383 lb-ft (520 Nm) of torque at 5,000 rpm. Genesis accelerates from 0-60 mph (97 kph) in 5.9 seconds, with a top speed of 149 mph (240 kph).
Release Date
Hyundai released the Genesis model from 2008 to 2016. For the 2016 to 2020 model year, Genesis (a luxury division of Hyundai) marketed the Hyundai Genesis as the G80 model.