2009 Hyundai Genesis

NEW FOR 2009:

- All-new model

An all-new model, the 2009 Genesis marks Hyundai's first foray into the rear-wheel drive segment and its first V8, and is the new flagship sedan in the company's line-up.

Two engines are offered: a 3.8-litre V6 and 4.6-litre V8, both with a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode.

Features on the V6 include 17-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, automatic headlamps, heated mirrors with integrated turn signals, laminated side glass, rain-sensing wipers, rear seat side airbags, front active head restraints, anti-theft system, woodgrain trim accents, leather-wrapped wheel with power tilt and telescopic, six-CD/MP3 stereo with auxiliary input and USB jack, cruise control, driver's side memory, power windows with front auto up/down, keyless entry, power sunroof, heated leather seats with eight-way driver and four-way passenger power adjustment, and rear-seat pass-through.

The V8 adds 18-inch alloy wheels, auto-levelling Xenon headlamps, leather-wrapped dash, and woodgrain and leather steering wheel.

The V6 can be optioned with 18-inch wheels and Xenon headlamps, and both models can be optioned with adaptive front lighting, premium stereo, navigation system, Bluetooth hands-free communication, and power rear sunshade.

Moving the company into a new luxury segment, along with the luxury Veracruz crossover, the Genesis offers a comfortable and attractive interior, roomy cabin, and good performance from both its V6 and V8 offerings. The interior will remind Mercedes-Benz fans of the S-Class, while exterior styling copies a few cues from other German and Japanese manufacturers, but the whole thing comes together quite well. The Genesis' aggressive pricing and long warranty also help to make this an attractive choice to buyers.