Hyundai Genesis review, test drive

Hyundai's halo product, the Genesis, will find its way into some right-hand-drive markets. This is what the luxury sedan feels like to drive.

Published on May 13, 2014 09:31:00 PM

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New Hyundai Genesis sedan.

In some markets, Genesis models will receive unique suspension tuning, which will hopefully address some of the handling issues.

We drove a rear-wheel-drive, 3.8-litre petrol V6 coupled to an eight-speed automatic gearbox. The engine develops good power and is refined as long as it isn’t pushed too hard, but the fuel economy is nearly 10 percent off that of a BMW 535i and the Hyundai lacks the low-end shove of the turbocharged 5-series.

Inside, the Korean company has worked closely with its suppliers to make sure the buttons and controls have consistent feel and weight. Our test car's top-spec 16-way adjustable seats are extremely comfortable and trimmed in rich quality leather. Rear-seat room is also excellent.

The large central navigation screen features a 720p HD display and can be controlled via touchscreen or an iDrive-like rotary controller. You can also sweep across the 233mm-wide screen like a smart phone. Also of note is the ventilation and air-con system, which uses the industry’s first CO2 sensor to help prevent drowsiness and reduce fatigue.

Overall, it’s an impressive interior. The only real let-downs are some sub-par plastic trim, intrusive headrests and slightly wayward scattering of buttons.

The addition of right-hand drive and a luxurious interior with tonnes of technology and safety features make the Genesis a worthy halo car for the Korean brand.

If the suspension tuning is sorted before arriving on these shores, the Genesis could make for an earnest and idiosyncratic alternative to established luxury saloons. Throw in a competitive diesel engine and Hyundai’s wish to take on the class best wouldn’t be too far off.

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