After taking the 2009 North American Car of the Year award back in 2009, Hyundai is back 5 years later with its highly anticipated second generation 2015 Genesis model. With this next generation Hyundai brings more features than before, and a significant visual refresh as the first model to get the Korean automakers’ Fluidic Sculpture 2.0 design language.
“Hyundai is proud to bring our next-generation Genesis sedan to eager U.S. consumers in just a few short months,” said vice president of corporate and product planning, Mike O’Brien, of Hyundai Motor America. “Market expectations for the new Genesis are understandably high, and we’re confident the Genesis’ combination of superb dynamics, bold design, class-leading safety and driver-focused technologies will exceed those expectations by a large margin.”
For the outside, Hyundai added a 3-D hexagonal grille in semi-gloss chrome, and offers LED indicators, HID headlights, fog lights, full LED taillamps and a re-worked C-pillar for a touch of sport appeal.
Hyundai’s aim for the interior design of the Genesis was simplicity to enhance the user experience. Luxury materials have been used throughout; such as matte finish wood and aluminum. A Lexicon Discrete Logic 7 17-speaker surround sound system is offered with a 900-watt output and HD Radio, USB, and auxiliary jacks. The standard system still provides 14 speakers from the same maker. Navigation with a 9.2-inch display is available, while the standard version is an 8-inch touchscreen with all of the usual suspects such as Bluetooth.
As for performance, the Genesis gets a redesigned ultra-rigid platform with available AWD, a new multi-link rear suspension, Motor Driven Electric Power Steering and an available 5.0-liter V8 engine. The V8 makes 420-hp and 383 lb-ft of torque, while a 3.8-liter direct injected motor makes 311-hp and 293 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Safety technologies have been incorporated as well, including Smart Cruise Control that utilizes the start-stop feature in scenarios like stop and go traffic, Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist, Rear Cross-traffic Alert, Lane Departure warning and then some.
Looks like Hyundai really gave its all with this redesign, and while these options really shine, the base offerings are nothing to overlook.
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