click above for 34 high-res images of the 2009 Hyundai Genesis
You can read everything there is to know about the 2009 Hyundai Genesis in the post we published late last night, but at the time we only had three images of the Korean automaker's new super sedan to show you. Hyundai released the rest of its images this morning, giving us a complete view of the car's design both inside and out, including shots of what appears to be an uplevel model that's decked out with all the trimmings (see above).
We'll reiterate our concern that many may find the design of the Hyundai Genesis derivative and anonymous. In fact, the only place a Hyundai badge appears on the car is the rear trunk lid. Is that because the company believes a logo on the front grille might deter those who believe that Hyundai can't build a premium car? And as for its derivative elements, we mentioned the Lexus-like headlights and Infiniti-inspired profile, but we just figured out where we've seen those taillights before: on the rear of a BMW 3-Series sedan. Regardless, the overall design is, as we said before, clean and rich looking. Our first glimpse of the back seat also reveals prodigious amounts of rear leg room. So we again leave the 2009 Hyundai Genesis in your hands, dear readers, to judge as you will.
[Source: Hyundai]
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 5)
Landy @ Jan 8th 2008 9:36AM
The headlights are stolen from the Mondeo!
Mercury Fan Forever @ Jan 8th 2008 9:39AM
The overall look of the car looks great. Hyundai did a great job.
But the grille looks odd and should be replaced.
graviton @ Jan 8th 2008 10:44AM
I disagree. I love that grill but hate the Malibu grill...
Chocolate @ Jan 8th 2008 9:41AM
"We'll reiterate our concern that many may find the design of the Hyundai Genesis derivative and anonymous"
Can you please stop writing in the "We". If done on the very rare occasion it's great but it seems nowadays every article as a "we think".
I come here for the prompt news and I look to the comments for the comments ... not to the article.
My 2 cents. Sorry for the rant.
Pete @ Jan 8th 2008 9:52AM
Screw hyundai. No originality. No push for advancement.
They just copy everyone else and beat them at price point.
Bill @ Jan 8th 2008 10:48AM
Pete, the same could be said for the Japanese manufacturers over the years. You think this is copied design just wait until you see what the Chinese will do.
Scott @ Jan 8th 2008 11:18AM
The Japanese companies like Honda and Toyota are exactly the ones that should be nervous, because this thing is aimed directly at their target market: People that don't buy based on style, handling, or "brand identity", but instead use value and appreciate the "jack of all trades, master of none" type of car. Think Camry, Accord, or really any Acura, Lexus, maybe Cadillac, but Cadillac has been brining a lot of style lately so it's probably not the same buyer anymore.
I don't think the German luxury cars need to worry a whole lot, as those brands carry a lot of historical cache that takes years and years to earn, and they usually handle the best out of any car made, period. Especially Audi and BMW. I'm pretty sure you won't be seeing any Hyundai's at the track just yet, and whether you like racing or not, there's no doubt that years and years of racing technology makes it's way down to the consumer level in the form of superb handling and stability.
Mondo @ Jan 8th 2008 9:49AM
It DID steal the taillights from the 3-series sedan and that was a mistake. Those bad boys are hideous.
Overall, I'm not offended in the least by this car. I'm not offended by the Camry either for what it's worth. Genesis just strikes me as a bit of a nondescript blob. I'm obviously no design expert I just know what gets my attention. If this car drove past me right now I wouldn't even notice, just assuming it was another "Camcordimabu". Maybe that's what will sell?
John R @ Jan 8th 2008 9:55AM
Yeah, there is a Camry quality about. I feel like this might be the closest thing we'll get to a Toyota Crown.
k.w.a @ Jan 8th 2008 10:12AM
that's exactly what i thought it was... a toyota crown
k.w.a @ Jan 8th 2008 10:12AM
that's exactly what i thought it was... a toyota crown
PJ @ Jan 8th 2008 2:38PM
I think you guys may be missing the point. Yes, the styling apes the M45 or Lexus LS (outside), or the E-Class and XJ (inside).
But you're all comparing the Genesis to $40-60K luxury cars, *when its pricing starts under 30K*. Which, of course, is exactly what Hyundai wants you (and buyers) to do, even if you do find it a little derivative.
I also suspect those who don't think this car represents any sort of step forward haven't checked the equipment or spec sheets. A full-size V8 RWD sedan with quality interior materials and loads of lux toys for ~30K is most definitely something new. The Chrysler 300 is the closest comparison, and its bunker-slit visibility and downmarket interior materials turn off plenty of prospective buyers, while its styling makes more of a statement than many sedan buyers are comfortable with. The non-V8 models aren't quick, either.
To me, the bigger challenge for the Genesis is going to be Hyundai's dealers, which are typically the worst of the worst for having inexperienced staff and slimy old-school sales tactics. They need to cut the loud-ties-and-balloons crap pronto if they want the Genesis to stand a chance boosting the brand's image.
Mondo @ Jan 8th 2008 3:01PM
"PJ @ Jan 8th 2008 2:38PM
I think you guys may be missing the point. Yes, the styling apes the M45 or Lexus LS (outside), or the E-Class and XJ (inside).
But you're all comparing the Genesis to $40-60K luxury cars, *when its pricing starts under 30K*. Which, of course, is exactly what Hyundai wants you (and buyers) to do, even if you do find it a little derivative."
I actually compared to the "Camcordimabu" (Camry, Accord, Altima, Malibu) but you have a good point with the V8 engine and RWD platform. I don't doubt that Hyundai may be on to something and forcing the others to step up their game. I just thought the styling was a little bland. Now, their target market may want bland. But, I think if their target market wants bland then they will also want FWD and high efficiency engines but what do I know?
John R @ Jan 8th 2008 9:51AM
I like it. Especially if the price is right for the V8 model. But that grill does some need work. It makes it look like some sort of shellfish. However, I wouldn't be upset if I found this in my driveway.
SteveC @ Jan 8th 2008 3:54PM
The grill resembles seaweed floating along some deserted canal. Other than that, the Genesis will be a smashing success. I venture to say that this car will have the largest impact on the luxury market since the original Acura Legend was produced in 1986. All of the Asian and some of the German and U.S. luxury brand officials are probably quaking in their boots now.
When my wife's Acura RL needs to be replaced, the Genesis will be the car I'll buy.
CentralParkWest99 @ Jan 8th 2008 9:56AM
This car is next in line with the Ballin on a Budget homie mobile.
Acura Ledgend--->SC300---->300m---->Hyundai Genesis
yo yo yo
John R @ Jan 8th 2008 10:23AM
ah...Central Park West says everything I need to know about you. You, Paul Allen and Patrick Bateman should be roommates.
ryan @ Jan 10th 2008 9:25AM
Ballin' on a budget homie mobile indeed! Way to call it in a funny way but accurate as a laser pointer.
CT @ Jan 12th 2008 9:30AM
OMG. Is this person serious. Sounds like a 13 year old gangsta wannabe got on his mommie's computer...............ROFL
CentralParkWest99 @ Jan 12th 2008 2:33PM
CT, I am forcasting the next trend in "urban rides". Get with the program.
Yes I to a ROFL ...............(wait for it)...with your mama !