Hyundai's Genesis Named in NADAguides.com "Top 5 Luxury Cars for 2009"

CLAYTON, Australia – December 15, 2008: Hyundai Motor Company’s new rear-wheel drive premium sports sedan, the Genesis, was named a “Top 5 Luxury Car for 2009” by NADAguides.com, the world's largest publisher of vehicle pricing and information and a recognised authority for vehicle valuations. The list includes models from Jaguar, Bentley, Mercedes and Audi, all with base prices more than US$32,000 above the Genesis’ starting RRP of US$33,000.

The Genesis placed fourth, behind the Audi A8 L (starting at US$74,050), the Jaguar XF Supercharged (US$64,475) and the Mercedes-Benz S Class 550 (US$90,225). And Hyundai beat the Bentley Arnage, which had the highest sticker of all vehicles on the list, starting at US$224,900 – nearly seven times the starting price of the Genesis.

“The recent economic crisis has actually created opportunities for carmakers such as Hyundai to create inroads with car buyers in market segments where Hyundai isn’t typically known,” said Jeff Glucker, road test editor, NADAguides.com. “They really hit a homerun with the 2009 Genesis, offering solid performance, luxury and technology features at a much better value than other vehicles in its class.”

The market analysts at NADAguides.com selected the “Top 5 Luxury Cars for 2009” based on a variety of factors, including styling, luxury amenities and overall handling.

“It’s an honour to be recognized by NADAguides.com market analysts as a true rival to luxury competitors in 2009,” said Michael Deitz, manager, Product Development, Hyundai Motor America. “The Genesis was benchmarked against Mercedes, BMW, Lexus and other iconic luxury brands throughout the development process, so to be listed alongside them validates Hyundai’s overall success, especially because we didn’t have to sacrifice our long-standing tradition of offering extraordinary value.”

Genesis is built on Hyundai’s all-new, performance-driven rear-wheel-drive architecture. It offers two powertrains, including a 3.8 litre V6 engine and Hyundai’s all-new 4.6 litre Tau V8. Tau produces 280 kW, leading all its competitors in specific output with 61 kW per litre while providing better fuel economy than competitive luxury made V6 models. With technology rivalling more expensive luxury sedans, Genesis showcases features such as a Lexicon designed audio system. Additionally, all Hyundai Genesis have standard iPod connectivity, electronic active head restraints, and Bluetooth hands-free phone system.