Hyundai's Announces Most Powerful Engine Yet

SYDNEY – February 15, 2011: Five litres, eight cylinders, 320kW and already acclaimed as one of the world’s ten best engines. It could be the latest high performance powerplant from a leading German prestige manufacturer. But it’s not. It’s actually the latest technological showcase from the world’s fastest growing volume brand – Hyundai.

The new engine is the latest generation of the company’s ‘Tau’ V8 engine, which powered its Genesis luxury sedan to become the 2009 North American Car of the Year.

In the U.S., the Hyundai Genesis continues its segment leadership with numerous changes, including exterior design improvements, new direct injection technology for its Lambda V6 engine, new eight-speed automatic transmissions and enhanced chassis tuning. In addition, the new 5.0-litre direct injection V8 engine is now available exclusively with the 5.0-litre R-Spec model, which includes unique 19-inch machined-finish alloy wheels, optional Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 performance tyres, and sport-tuned transmission, suspension and steering calibrations for exhilarating vehicle dynamics.

2012 Genesis Highlights

New 5.0-litre R-Spec Direct Injection V8 performance flagship model added

Direct injection technology added to Lambda 3.8-litre V6 engine for 15 percent improved output, improved fuel economy and emissions

In-house-developed eight-speed automatic transmissions for all engines

More aggressive grille and front fascia design

New headlight design with LED accents and daytime running lights

Sportier rocker panel design

Folding mirrors with integrated puddle lamps

New, brushed aluminium-finish window surrounds

Redesigned rear taillights

Redesigned rear fascia with integrated dual asymmetrical exhaust tips

New 17-inch alloy wheel design (3.8 model)

5.0 R-Spec Direct Injection Tau V8 engine
This new V8 variant still offers all of the premium engine technology from the 4.6-litre V8, including Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT), a tuned variable induction system, and low-friction diamond-like coatings (DLC) on piston skirts, rings and tappets. Even with these impressive power increases, fuel economy is estimated at 14.7 L/100km city and 9.4 L/100km highway.

The Tau 5.0-litre V8 is coupled with a new in-house eight-speed transmission. This new Hyundai-developed transmission adds two additional ratios to enhance acceleration, shifting smoothness, and transmission efficiency by six percent over the former six-speed. All eight-speed transmissions will include SHIFTRONIC� manual shift capability. This new eight-speed transmission is the first offered by a non-luxury branded manufacturer.

Hyundai-developed eight-speed automatic transmission
In keeping with Hyundai engineering philosophy, the R-Spec also will include more aggressive chassis tuning, matching its corresponding powertrain enhancements for optimal dynamic balance. For enhanced body roll control, front stabiliser bar diameter has been increased from 25 mm to 26 mm, and rear diameter from 18 mm to 19 mm over the 4.6-litre model. R-Spec will offer a unique sport design 19-inch alloy wheel with premium machined finish and optional Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 summer performance tyres. The R-Spec steering calibration has been matched to this unique wheel and tyre combination for optimised performance and driving refinement expectations in this segment. To complete the performance package, front brake rotors have increased from 13.0 inches to 13.6 inches over the 2011 4.6-litre model.

In addition to the more aggressive styling cues for all 2012 Genesis models, R-Spec will offer unique headlights with dark chrome inserts for a more distinctive front appearance. An R-Spec trim designation badge has been added to the rear deck, along with black R-Spec embroidered floor mats. Genesis R-Spec only will be offered in three sport-oriented exterior colours: Black Noir, Titanium Grey, and Platinum Metallic, each with black leather interior and an all-black leather steering wheel for a differentiated sport appearance from the 4.6-litre model.

New Safety Technologies
Maintaining Hyundai's emphasis on delivering leading safety technology, Genesis boasts world-class active and passive safety features to help both prevent accidents and maximise the well being of its occupants in the event of a collision. Genesis continues the Hyundai tradition of standardising key life-saving safety technology with Electronic Stability Control (ESC), eight airbags and electronic active head restraints. Active front head restraints have been proven by the U.S.’s Insurance Institute for Highway Safety to help prevent whiplash.

Adding to this safety leadership for 2012, Genesis adds new daytime running lamps to all models. Further, Genesis offers a newly-developed Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), available on the 3.8-litre ‘Technology’ package, 4.6-litre and 5.0-litre R-Spec models.

Genesis' total of eight airbags includes advanced dual front airbags, front and rear seat-mounted side-impact airbags, and roof-mounted side curtain airbags for both front and rear outboard seat occupants.

Genesis has a total of eight ultrasonic sensors located on the front and rear bumpers. The sensors, along with the rear backup camera, help detect how close objects are when parking. Distance is indicated on the in-dash screen and accompanied by an audible warning tone.

Genesis is brought to a stop by large four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with Brake Assist and Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD).