Genesis rising...

What we like:

Smooth power delivery and pleasant aural note from the 3.8L V6. Pleasant and comfortable ride.

What we dislike:

HUD only works at certain height and angles.

The Genesis definitely breathes luxury in its interior and that extends to its drive train as well. Under the bonnet the car hides a massive 3.8-litre naturally aspirated V6 with a respectable 315bhp. Torque numbers are staggering at 397Nm. This translates to a sprint time of just 6.5 seconds which is decent for something that tips the scales at close to 2 tons.

One clear advantage of having a massive none force fed engine is the immediacy of its reaction to your intent. Despite the car’s size and weight, there’s no hesitation every time you feed the throttle. Paired with a smooth shifting 8-speed automatic, the acceleration is nothing short of majestic while a soft aurally pleasing rumble escapes from the V6 up front.

It’s clear that Hyundai has spent a significant amount of time developing the new multi-link suspension as it glides over even the worst road condition with ease. Damping is well controlled and rough surfaces are effectively blunted before it has any effect on the cabin.

With the Electronic Control Suspension switched to Sport mode, the car feels tighter and well balanced with its near 50:50 weight distribution that is contributed by its rear wheel drive configuration but the slow steering makes it less reactive in the bends. And while the car is noticeably stiffer, it still succumbs to its weight in the bends and leans significantly.

Clearly the car is set up for comfort and it shows when you’re cruising at highway speeds. Sound insulation is unlike any Hyundai that have come before and brings it on par to a modern day Lexus. Combined with the ride comfort, the interior is peacefully serene even when your speedometer indicates speeds over the 100kmh mark.

With a price of $246,999, the Genesis offers flagship luxury specs at mid-level luxury price. Packed with a laundry list of standard items that include top spec luxury options like active cruise control and soft close, the Hyundai will be hard to ignore by its competitors.

The Genesis can stand toe to toe with cars from other luxury marques. But its greatest challenge would be in changing the consumer’s perception of the brand. It won’t happen overnight but it will happen for sure. They only need to look to Lexus for inspiration.

Credits: Story and Photos by Benjamin G. Kline