Detroit '08 Preview: 2009 Hyundai Genesis shakes things up
by John Neff on Jan 8th 2008 at 12:02AM 
click above to view more high-res images of the 2009 Hyundai Genesis
What you are looking at is the physical representation of Hyundai's will to succeed in the U.S., also known as the 2009 Hyundai Genesis. The Korean automaker's first attempt at a rear-wheel-drive luxury sedan will debut in Detroit next week and arrive on our shores later this year (we think) with a price tag that starts below $30,000. As is Hyundai's way, it will feature power, performance and amenities that belie its little price tag.
First, the design. The Genesis sedan has clean lines and uncluttered surfaces that look detailed and, frankly, expensive. Yes, it's derivative. There's a bit of Lexus LS in the headlights, some Infiniti in the profile and rear... you get the idea and can add your own observations in the comments. It's a criticism that's been lobbed at nearly every recent Hyundai design, but it doesn't stick. The design of the Genesis won't offend and it won't excite, and our only major complaint is the grille, which looks too anonymous without a big Hyundai logo front and center.
The Genesis sedan (don't forget about the rear-wheel-drive Genesis Coupe that's coming next) will be available with three engines including the automaker's familiar 3.3L and 3.8L Lambda V6 engines producing 264 HP/233 lb. ft. and 290 HP/264 lb. ft., respectively. The top-shelf motor will be Hyundai's first V8 in the U.S., the 4.6L Tau V8 that produces a healthy 368 HP and 324 lb. ft. of torque. The Tau V8 also gets paired with a ZF 6-speed automatic rather than the Aisin 6-speed autos that are mated to the V6 engines. The V8 also runs on good old fashioned 87 octane unleaded gas, something not all of its competition can claim. 0-60? Well under 6 seconds says Hyundai.
Follow the jump for more info and pics...
Gallery: 2009 Hyundai Genesis Sedan
click any image to enlarge
Hyundai also hints that there's room in the V8's block to enlarge its displacement, and that force feeding it some extra air is definitely a possibility. Rounding out the mechanical hardware is an all-independent suspension with five-links front and rear – sophisticated stuff for less than $30k, and we haven't even looked inside yet.
Hyundai has stuffed the Genesis with an alarming amount of high-level standard equipment, including a soft-touch dash, wood accents, Bluetooth, iPod hook ups, a heated and cooled driver's seat, auto windshield defogger and rain-sensing wipers, an ultraviolet reflective steering wheel, power rear sunshade, electronic parking brake, proximity key and a push button starter. Basically, if you were listing this car's standard features out loud to someone, you'd need to take a breath somewhere in the middle. So what does Hyundai offer as an option on the Genesis? How about a Lexicon audio system? We're told Rolls-Royce is the only other automaker that uses Lexicon stereos. Then there's the 8-inch.. 8-inch!... display for the optional nav system that's controlled via an Audi-like multi-media controller. A backup camera is also available, though this Hyundai won't park itself for you, too. It will keep you from ramming the car ahead with an optional Smart Cruise Control system. XM satellite radio, HD Radio, a 30-gb in-dash hard drive... all available.
So, we leave the 2009 Hyundai Genesis in your hands. What do you think?
PRESS RELEASE:
HYUNDAI UNVEILS GENESIS PREMIUM SPORTS SEDAN
- Hyundai crafts a rival to $60,000 sports sedans ... with a starting price under $30,000
- Rear-wheel drive and high-output V8 engine deliver world-class driving experience
FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., January 8, 2008 – Hyundai aims to shatter premium automobile paradigms with the North American International Auto Show introduction of its new flagship, the all-new Genesis sports sedan on January 13. With capabilities and features comparable to $60,000 premium sedans, Genesis will be offered at a starting price under $30,000 when it goes on sale this summer.
Genesis is built on Hyundai's all-new, performance-driven rear-wheel-drive architecture. It offers three powertrains, including 3.3-liter and 3.8-liter V6 engines, and Hyundai's all-new 4.6-liter Tau V8. Tau will produce an estimated 368 horsepower on regular fuel, and lead all its competitors in specific output with 80 horsepower per liter. With technology rivaling more expensive luxury sedans, Genesis showcases features such as XM NavTraffic, Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFLS), Smart Cruise Control, Lexicon® audio systems and electronic active head restraints.
"While Genesis will compete for customers with cars like Chrysler 300 and Pontiac G8, our engineering benchmarks were Mercedes E-Class, Infiniti M, and Lexus GS," said John Krafcik, vice president, product development and strategic planning, Hyundai Motor America. "Genesis provides a potent combination of performance, luxury, and value. We think it has the opportunity to be an extremely disruptive force in the large sedan and near-luxury segments."
Genesis ushers in a new era for Hyundai. Its all-new rear-wheel drive architecture will spawn more products in other segments, as suggested by the Concept Genesis Coupe shown at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November 2007.
NEW PERFORMANCE-DRIVEN REAR-WHEEL-DRIVE ARCHITECTURE
Genesis is built on an all-new rear-wheel-drive architecture, its first application in a U.S. Hyundai model. Genesis boasts a near ideal 53/47 front-to-rear weight distribution for exceptional handling and more refined steering characteristics. The rear-wheel-drive layout allowed engineers to position the car's front wheels farther forward delivering outstanding handling and steering performance. Standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC), the industry's most important new safety technology, further enhances the vehicle's driving confidence. Hyundai leads all popular car brands in the standard application of ESC, with more than 70 percent of 2007 Hyundai sales featuring ESC as standard equipment.
Genesis reduces interior noise levels and improves ride and handling with a stiffer, lighter body structure. The use of high tensile steel in critical areas in the unibody provides Genesis with 12-14 percent higher dynamic torsional rigidity and a lower body structure weight than the BMW 5-series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class – despite having a substantially larger cabin than either of those benchmarks. Hyundai Genesis has more interior volume than Mercedes Benz E-Class and BMW 7-Series.
WORLD-CLASS TAU V8
Headlining the Genesis' performance capabilities is Hyundai's all-new Tau 4.6-liter V8 engine mated to a ZF 6-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC® manual control. The Tau V8 delivers an estimated 368 horsepower to fit the demands of performance-oriented consumers. Unlike many competitors and most premium sedans, it achieves this impressive power output using regular unleaded fuel – further demonstration of Hyundai's commitment to value. This powertrain combination will launch Genesis to 60 miles per hour in less than six seconds. The Tau produces more horsepower and torque than the powerplants found in Lexus GS450, BMW 750i, Audi A8 and Infiniti M45 and has more horsepower per liter than any of its V8 competitors. The Tau engine is built with flexibility for the future. Future Tau variants may offer larger displacement, forced induction options and other technology enhancements.
STRONG LAMBDA V6 PERFORMANCE
Genesis also delivers spirited performance through its two V6 options -- all-aluminum 3.3-liter and 3.8-liter DOHC V6 engines that deliver an estimated 268 horsepower and 233 lb-ft. of torque and an estimated 290 horsepower and 264 lb.-ft. of torque, respectively. To maximize the power spread, the engines utilize Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) on intake and exhaust cam shafts and a new Variable Intake System (VIS) that helps cylinders breathe efficiently at low and high RPM. The better breathing results in outstanding off-the-line acceleration and passing performance, and remarkable fuel efficiency. The V6 engines use an alloy block and cylinder heads for lighter weight and thermal efficiency, and feature timing chains with no scheduled maintenance.
Even with their impressive output, all Genesis engines are also environmentally friendly, with all three achieving Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV) certification levels.
ADVANCED 6-SPEED TRANSMISSIONS
Both Genesis V6 engines use an Aisin 6-speed SHIFTRONIC automatic transmission that features an overdrive lock-up torque converter for improved highway fuel economy. The transmission offers smooth shifts and a wide spread of ratios that ideally suit both engine's characteristics including a tall-overdrive sixth gear for quiet, efficient highway cruising. Drivers can access the SHIFTRONIC® feature by moving the gear selector into a separate gate. Pushing the selector forward or pulling it rearward will shift the transmission up or down sequentially, adding to driver control. A clear LCD readout on the instrument panel shows the gear that's in use.
The Tau V8 Genesis is mated with an enhanced, high-output ZF 6-speed transmission to handle the added horsepower and torque.
INNOVATIVE AND SOPHISTICATED SPORT-TUNED SUSPENSION
Genesis features a suspension design that is among the most sophisticated and refined anywhere, at any price. The front five-link suspension features upper and lower arms linking the front wheels to the chassis. This artfully articulated arrangement creates a virtual king pin axis that dramatically reduces unwanted kickback through the steering wheel as well as improving responsiveness. The five-link independent rear suspension is equally sophisticated, enabling precise suspension geometry for a premium ride and engaging handling prowess. The capabilities of the advanced front and rear-suspension are maximized through Amplitude Selective Dampers (ASD) allowing tuning flexibility at smaller damper displacements. The ASD suspension provides:
- Improved ride comfort with more body / wheel control
- Increase driving comfort without compromised handling
- Optimizes road surface contact
- Technology used in Lexus, BMW and Mercedes-Benz models
Genesis' design is a progressive interpretation of the modern rear-wheel drive sports sedan. To match its dynamic capabilities, Genesis combines strong, sculpted forms which integrate precise details, natural materials and innovative lighting to provide a well-crafted, premium design aesthetic.
HIGH-TECH ACCOMMODATIONS AT ACCESSIBLE PRICE POINTS
The new 2009 Genesis is the most advanced Hyundai ever. From its design and spaciousness to its technology and appointments, it delivers a wealth of features and performance befitting flagship European and Asian brands, but delivers them at a much more accessible price point. Starting with its Lexicon state-of-the-art audio system featuring LOGIC 7® technology, Genesis offers an extraordinary combination of technology, premium appointments, and value. Standard is a soft-touch instrument panel with woodgrain accents, Bluetooth® hands-free mobile phone interface, and USB/iPod® auxiliary inputs. A state-of-the-art navigation system with an eight-inch display is available. The navigation unit is accessed by a user-friendly multi-media controller that also controls the radio. Backing out of tight spaces and avoiding mishaps is much easier with the available backup camera that uses the eight-inch display to show the driver a clear view immediately behind the car.
A leather-wrapped dash, door panels, and console lid surround the driver in a luxurious environment, while heated and cooled driver's seat provides optimal driving comfort. An automatic windshield defogger with humidity sensor and rain-sensing wipers allow crystal clear sight lines. No other car in the segment offers an ultraviolet reflective leather steering wheel, which keeps the surface cool to the touch, even in scorching sunlight. Genesis also offers the conveniences of power rear sunshade, automatic electronic parking brake, proximity key and push button starter.
LEXICON® AUDIO SYSTEMS TEAM WITH XM, HD RADIO™, and APPLE TO OFFER UNRIVALED AUDIO PERFORMANCE AND CHOICE
Rolls Royce Phantom and Hyundai Genesis are the only automobiles to offer a Lexicon-branded state-of-the-art audio system featuring LOGIC 7® technology. The Lexicon® surround sound audio system includes a 12-channel digital amplifier and 17 speakers producing more than 500 watts of sound in 7.1 discrete audio. Genesis is also the first popular brand to offer the clarity of digital HD Radio technology from the factory. Navigation-equipped Genesis models also include a 30-gigabyte hard drive and XM NavTraffic. Like every 2009 Hyundai, Genesis comes standard with XM Satellite Radio. Auxiliary USB and iPod® inputs allow drivers to fully control and charge iPods directly from the head unit.
ADVANCED LIGHTING TECHNOLOGY
The 2009 Genesis offers Xenon high-intensity discharge (HID) headlights. The advantages of HID headlamps include greater lighting power, daylight-type lighting and reduced power consumption. In addition, the cut lines of the new HID headlights are extremely precise, providing maximum nighttime visibility without distracting other drivers. The lamps also feature an auto-leveling function which keeps the headlights level regardless of how the vehicle is loaded with passengers or cargo. Genesis also offers an Automatic Front Lighting System that allows the headlamps to automatically swivel for better visibility when cornering.
NEW TECHNOLOGIES DELIVER IMPROVED SAFETY PERFORMANCE
Maintaining Hyundai's emphasis on delivering leading safety technology, Genesis boasts world-class active and passive safety features to help both prevent accidents, and maximize the well being of its occupants in the event of a collision. The Genesis continues the Hyundai tradition of standardizing key life-saving safety technology such as Electronic Stability Control (ESC), eight airbags and electronic active head restraints.
Genesis' total of eight airbags include 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.
An electronic active head restraint system will debut on the 2009 Hyundai Genesis. Hyundai is the first popular brand to offer electronic active front head restraints, an improvement over mechanically based active head restraint systems. Until now, electronic active head restraints could only be found on select Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Lexus models. Active front head restraints have been proven by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety to help prevent whiplash.
Genesis has a total of 8 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.
Forward-looking radar is used in Genesis' Smart Cruise Control system. Smart Cruise Control adjusts vehicle speed to maintain distance from the vehicle ahead in the same lane.
Genesis is brought to a halt by large four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with Brake Assist and Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD). The 12.6-inch front rotors have single-piston floating calipers and the rear brakes feature 12.4-inch rotors with single-pistons on V6 models. Twin-pistons and larger rotors are featured on V8 models.
WARRANTY
The all-new 2009 Hyundai Genesis is protected by the Hyundai Advantage, America's Best Warranty™. Coverage includes five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper protection, 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty, and seven-year/unlimited mileage anti-perforation coverage. In addition, Genesis buyers receive 24-hour roadside assistance coverage at no extra charge for five years (no mileage limit) and that service includes emergency towing, lockout service and limited coverage for trip-interruption expenses. There is no deductible on any of these coverages.
TECHNOLOGY
- Electronic active front head restraints
- Electronic Stability Control
- Eight airbags
- Heated / cooled seats
- High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps with adaptive leveling
- Adaptive Front Lighting System
- Push-button start
- Navigation with backup camera
- Electric parking brake
- Standard Bluetooth technology
- iPod/USB auxiliary inputs
- HD Radio™ receiver
- XM Satellite Radio® with NavTraffic
- Lexicon® Discrete Surround Audio Systems
- Automatic windshield defogger with humidity sensor
- Rain-sensing wipers
- Smart cruise control
- Five-link front and rear suspension
- Tau V8 engine
- 6-speed transmissions
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 7)
Dave 10:27AM (2/09/2008)
We need to get back to reality. Hyundai is comparing the Genesis to Lexus, BMW, and Mercedes. Yes they all have 4 wheels and you can get leather but you can on a Kia too. The Azera had the same claims when it first came out. Now sales are falling off fast and so is reliability (Consumers Reports).
We all want a great deal - me included. But we will get what we pay for and be recognized as being cheap. I currently own a Lexus and a Toyota - no problems after 8 years. Warranty's are great but the hassle factor of not having a working car is a pain.
On top of it all there are launch delays due to problems. Korean launch in January and a "summer" US launch for the largest maket?? The most expensive ad 5 months prior to the acutal launch.
An earlier poster asked why everyone was comparing the Genesis to a BMW, etc. It is Hyundai's plan - you might not by that it does compare but you probably dont think the Accord comparison will be such a stretch.
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bob crane 11:40PM (2/07/2008)
keep in mind Hyundai has been making BIG cars under the Equus (excuse the spelling if it's wrong) brand for years in Korea, big, fat, nice luxury vehicles.
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DENIS 10:33AM (3/08/2008)
The 06 Azera made me a Hyundai believer.I would jump at the Genesis on arrival if it offered AWD.Since I live in the northeast winter/snow/ice driving is a concern.Should it be? Is any vehicle with AWD better than the best rear wheel vehicle.I'm only referring to the above driving conditions.
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lacy 2:49PM (4/16/2008)
I have 4 Hyundai's over a 10 year span. I know, that's a little too loyal, but I liked that Hyundai always tried to achieve higher quality with a lower price than its competitors. And each year I think they get closer and closer to that goal. I have had both a 1996 Elantra and a 2006 Sonata, and let me tell you Hyundai has come a long way with some decent credibility and quality! People keep forgetting that Lexus is really Toyota, Acura is really Honda, and Jaguar is now Ford. It's all a matter of how the marketing team creates it and how the public percieves it.
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dave 12:01PM (6/15/2008)
Here is reality. The car will compete with the Toyota Camery or maybe even the Avalon. Hyundai should ahve went with a different badge but didn't - big mistake. No one looks at a Hyundai the same way as they look at a BMW, Mercedes or Infiniti (these are true lux cars). The price is about the same as the Inifiniti M35x which is rated by consumers just behind the Lexus LX 460 (96 i believe). They wont be able to touch the Infiniti and the pricing will only have people think "You saved $2k vs the Infiniti - wow - you are cheap!"
Everyone - do yourself a favor and either get the Avalon (great gas mileage) or Infiniti (great features, performance and price) if you are close to this price range. Alternatively a certified used premium brand that is a year old is really your best bet - warranty, price, cache - all while someone else took the depreciation hit.
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Chuck 8:48PM (8/05/2008)
Do the outside mirrors electronically fold like the Azera? I like that reature. Does the radio have automatic volumn control for speed? I liked that feature on my Towncar.
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Mark Vuchetich 11:33AM (8/25/2008)
Well, I am the proud owner of a new Genesis, V6, loaded. Wow! Though I've only got 300 miles under my belt with this baby, I must comment that I just love this car. Platinum, black leather, and oh how quite it is. Also handles/drives so well for a large sedan.
I've owned some nice cars in my adult life including several Acura's, Audi TT ALMS, Q45, and this baby is the nicest one yet. I look forward to enjoying this car for years to come!
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wtf 9:33PM (9/14/2008)
u ppl are idiots im sorry.
this is a great car, certainly better on paper then any mercedes, lexus, BMW, ect. It has almost all the same features for half the friken price and all you ppl have to complain about is the grill?? that is a beautiful grill. you jsut cant except that Hyundai is now starting to become better than most car brands you own. It was only a matter of time Chevy/Nissan/Lexus owners.
If u ppl new what you were talking about you would go test drive one to really see waht it is like
Im right you are all wrong. End of Story.
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fko 9:50PM (9/16/2008)
I just had the opportunity to flog a Genesis for about 600 miles. Got the 8 cyl with nav sys. I have to say that I was very impressed!
Amenities, interior, fit & finish? I say cover the logos and 95% of drivers would think it's a Lexus.
Enough umph to slap your head back and keep things moving quickly. The handling was a bit to inexact, but not by much. It feels like the suspension can be tightened up, they just need to put in some driver controlled ride adjustments.
Of course it remains to be seen how reliable it is, but assuming it holds up this is a contender.
If you can ignore the fact that the Genesis doesn't have a prestige badge, it is worth checking out.
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Max M. 11:45PM (9/16/2008)
"Do the outside mirrors electronically fold like the Azera?"
No, and yes, that would be a nice feature. They do, however, tilt
down and in for parking.
"Does the radio have automatic volumn control for speed?"
I think it does. But when you start the car it doesn't start with low volume and then ramp up, which I like. The cell phone bluetooth interface worked real well.
The model I drove had the "tech" option package, which I think is the only option avail on the 8 cyl. It includes the nav system and single knob control. The knob was easy to figure out and use.
I'm not a marketing analyst, so I don't know if they should have started a new upscale brand or not. I'm just a car enthusiast and driver, I thoroughly enjoyed the Genesis, and I believe it compares to MB and Lexus, definitely above Toyota, Nissan and domestics.
BTW I posted some pics of the Genesis here: http://community.viptestdrive.net/
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DAZ 12:53PM (9/25/2008)
I leased the new Genesis two weeks ago. My last three cars were Jags (all in all I've owned two S-types, one XJ8 and one XJS).
Over the last 20 years I've owned virtually every high-end American and European car manufactured, including Mercedes, Cadillacs, Lincolns, and of course the Jags. I know and appreciate high-end cars.
After shopping for a few weeks, leasing the Genesis was a no-brainer, especially after you test-drive one.
No pun intended, but the Genesis takes a backseat to nothing I've driven before. It out-performs the last three Jags I've owned, as well as the Benz, and is more comfortable than the American luxury cars, and it leases for 1/2 of what the new Jag XF leases for. Its interior is on par with any of the high-end cars manufactured in Europe or Japan.
Now, admittedly, I'm probably not the typical lux car owner. Whether it's buying real estate or making a business deal, I am looking for the highest quality, best performance for the best price. Damn the fancy labels.
Hyundai just found a repeat buyer in me. This car is truly an amazing value. This won't be my last Genesis. If you're looking to buy a Jag, Mercedes, Lexus or Infiniti, don't buy until you drive this car. It's that good.
DAZ
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tinahdez 4:24PM (2/21/2009)
Like my new Hundai Genesis, but the steering is stiff and the wheel does not return to center. Is this normal for a sports car feel?
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phil401k 7:36PM (9/24/2009)
Nice car but the co-pilot seat is low in height with no adjustment for that. The leather is not tight as in wrincle's in the back seats leather in between the rear seats .
I like the power and the stability of the ride but it rides hard. (so what butthe wife don't like it).
The GPS is a joke and would rather use a map. Like driving on a highway 249 in Texas it gets all confused and it looks like your driving through grass with no roads in sight. That highway has been there for more than 10 years. And when just for fun I want to go where I know I'm going it wants to go 4 to 5 miles out of the way. Not impressed with the GPS My 2003 Garmin is better at navigation than this. It only cost 189.00 dollars. Still I like the rear view camera .
Oh and love the dealer chipped driver window from a lock box. And a torn up key that the lock box did and you bought the car it is all you just love that 40000.00 feeling about that.
Still I get 26 miles to the gallon average. Only have 1000 miles on the car but all in all bang for the buck other than the back seats I love the car.
I'm an aircraft mechanic and own my own buisness I know machines and this one is good it just needs some TLC like an hight adjustment function for the passenger front seat
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J.Crew 12:07AM (1/08/2008)
Impressive, and I am not a Hyundai fan...
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Matt Keller 12:10AM (1/08/2008)
Well dip me in s***.
*crosses fingers that he didn't quadruple post*
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Matt Keller 12:11AM (1/08/2008)
This really is.
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... 12:13AM (1/08/2008)
wtf they did to the grill?
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Grant 12:12AM (1/08/2008)
On paper, it's definitely their best effort ever. But it needs to be driven in the real world to see how things really turn out, and how the car holds up.
But so far, things look good. They definitely tried hard with this thing. And the interior is much better than previous interiors from Hyundai.
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Austin 12:13AM (1/08/2008)
im dying, im dying, of bad design
thois thing has absolutly no design
its like a bigger camry
with the side of a maxima and the back chrome bar is from jag
nothin new
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d 12:46AM (9/19/2008)
You are an IDIOT!!!