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2012 Hyundai Genesis 5.0L R-Spec Review By Marty and Michael Bernstein


PHOTO (select to view enlarged photo)
2012 Hyundai Genesis R Spec

HYUNDAI CHALLENGES THE
GERMAN SPORTS SEDANS

by Marty Bernstein
Senior Editor-At-Large
Michigan Bureau
The Auto Channel

Most of us love the New Year because of the promise its beginning symbolizes, but maybe not so much for the folks at Hyundai who probably wish 2011 would reset like Bill Murray’s alarm clock from “Ground Hog’s Day”. Hyundai had a great year; it truly was an amazing for everyone associated with the Korean auto giant. But you don’t have to be prescient to predict the forecast for Hyundai, it looks even better for 2012. This is due in no small part to the styling setting strong products now being sold at your local Hyundai dealer.

Leading the charge is the 2012 Hyundai Genesis, which was recently crowned Motor Trend Car of Year. You will have to look long and hard to find a better made car that delivers the performance and contemporary styling that is not only leading class, it is creating a whole new class of mid-size luxury.

In the beginning, Hyundai’s Genesis was a nice, a very nice entry into the luxury sedan category – smartly styled, appointed with panache and proper driving characteristics – but for some a bit sedate and floaty. Add “R” for racing spec and the Genesis becomes a bolt of lightening. That’s scary powerful and a treat to drive.

It’s a conversation starter, an argument ender and a value when compared to offerings from the German trio. This car achieves an impressive level of luxury and boasts a unique combination of power, driving dynamics along with the comfort and styling that made it several car of the year awards in its first iteration.

Under the hood lies temptation and you ill be tempted by the Genesis’ 5.0L DOHC V8 engine that produces 429HP. Add 19 inch alloy wheels, customized suspension and an 8-speed automatic transmission and you got quite a sports sedan.

From the moment you lay eyes on its sporty exterior, to the minute you sink into the bucket seats, up to the second you ignite the spark that brings the Genesis to life, your time behind the wheel will be rewarded.

The roomy interior cabin is enhanced by a tailored leather dashboard that highlights the vehicle’s instrument panels and the 8-inch display screen. The Genesis easily seats four and can comfortably seats five adults. Consider that it also delivers EPA fuel economy that is impressive including a 25 mpg highway rating.

The 5-year, 100,000 mile bumper-to-bumper warranty eliminates any worries or fears about Hyundai quality and I’m here to assure you the fit and finish of this vehicle is world class. Doors and windows seal shut, no hiss. Body panels and frame are solid and the interior cabin is quiet. The Genesis R-Spec as tested had an MSRP of $46,535, that’s loaded out the door. Hyundai does without the usual mix and matching option packages or trim levels we all have become accustom to.

Under the stewardship of a capable and dynamic leader and supported by a strong dealer network, Hyundai has not only arrived, they are poised to dominate the US marketplace. The 2012 Genesis’ contemporary styling and standard features that maximize customer’s needs over production targets have changed the game. Are you a player?

Michael Bernstein contributed to this review.