New for 2015
The Hyundai Genesis has undergone a complete redesign for the 2015 model year.
The Start of Something Extraordinary
Targeting established luxury heavyweights like Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz as Hyundai has done with the Genesis since its 2009 debut was always going to be an uphill battle. But while previous Genesis model relied on a stellar value proposition, the all-new 2015 Genesis seeks to build upon that foundation by delivering a luxury sedan that is every bit as capable from the outside in.
Is the 2015 Genesis the dawn of a new era for Hyundai? It’s sure looking that way.
Powertrains and Performance
The 2015 Hyundai Genesis is available with two different engines: a standard 3.8-liter V6 engine that is capable of pumping out 311 horsepower and 293 pound-feet of torque, and larger 5.0-liter V8 engine that boosts output to 420 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque.
Both engines use direct injection and are highly revised versions of engines used in last year’s models. For 2015, Hyundai has focused heavily on enhancing a number of driving characteristics, namely improving fuel economy, low-end torque, and reducing noise and vibration for an overall more refined ride. Acceleration was another focal point with both engines backed by an eight-speed automatic transmission, designed by Hyundai, with dynamically different gear ratios for V6 and V8 models.
An integrated four-mode drive system (Eco, Normal, Sport, and Snow) is also on hand that tailors shift quality, throttle response, and stability control to fit driver's needs. Equally important is the Genesis’ new all-wheel drive system. After enduring the first five years of life as finely-tuned rear-wheel drive sedan, Hyundai has finally added all-wheel drive to the Genesis’ growing repertoire of features. The new system is as advanced as any European system, and can vary the split of torque from the rear to the front wheels as traction needs arise.
Features and Trims
The all-new 2015 Genesis is a full-size luxury sedan that starts at meager $38,000. For reference, that’s tens of thousands less than its closes German competitor.
The Genesis has long been celebrated for its generous list of standard features, and the 2015 model continues that trend. Here you’ll find standard features ranging from 18-inch alloy wheels, a rearview camera, leather upholstery, and heated eight-way power front seats.
The base model also include a number of tech features that enhance the Genesis’ cabin experience. These include navigation with dynamic touchscreen interface, Hyundai Blue Link® telematics suite, real-time traffic reporting, and a seven-speaker audio system, complete with CD player, USB/iPod interface, and HD/Satellite radio.
Genesis models powered by the 3.8-liter engine also get access to three options packages: Signature, Tech, and Ultimate. Here, Hyundai piles on even more creature comforts. Highlights for each package include a panoramic sunroof, advanced automated driver technologies (lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, etc.), and a color head-up (HUD) display.
As previously mentioned, all-wheel drive is optional and available on all 3.8 models and bundles in heated rear seats and a heated steering wheel.
Finally, Genesis models equipped with the 5.0-liter V8 get all the content of the Signature and Technology packages, and adds 19-inch alloy wheels, LED foglamps, illuminated door-sill plates, and the matte wood and aluminum trim.
Exterior/Interior
One of the 2015 Genesis’ strongest and most notable improvements is its ravishing redesigned exterior. While previous models had a tenancy to blend in among the sea of sedans, the 2015 version sports strong and elegant character lines that harmonize wonderfully with the car’s new and imposing grille. A striking new roofline also adds an extra dash of dynamism.
The 2015 Genesis also gets a comprehensive interior update with revised center stack and center console layouts, a larger navigation display, and more dash curves. Thankfully, Hyundai opted to retain dial-and-button media controller in the center console that worked so well in previous models.
New-line items include a reshaped steering wheel and increased seat comfort, particularly in the rear quarters, which benefits directly from the vehicles three-inch longer wheelbase. Capping everything off is a meticulous level of assembly. Every panel inside the Genesis fits with the same intense precious as any of its Japanese and European rivals.
Safety
The 2015 Hyundai Genesis comes standard with a host of equipment designed to keep you as safe as possible out on the road. This includes antilock brakes, traction and stability control, active front head restraints, front and rear side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, and a driver's knee airbag.
Hyundai's Blue Link® 2.0 connectivity suite is also standard and includes a host of emergency and safety features, including automatic crash notification, emergency SOS button, roadside assistance, remote door unlocking and remote start, geo-fencing capabilities, stolen vehicle recovery, and turn-by-turn navigation.
Of course, discerning drivers can also select from a number of optional advanced safety technologies, ranging from blind-spot detection and rear cross-traffic alerts to lane-departure warning and a lane-keeping assist systems. Adaptive cruise control, front and rear parking sensors and an automatic emergency braking system are also available.
Bottom Line
At the risk of sounding like a broken record, the 2015 Hyundai truly offers exceptional value for drivers looking for real “European luxury” without resorting to taking out a second mortgage or dipping into little Timmy’s college fund. But more than just offering great value, the 2015 Genesis is the real deal, serving up the type of confident and athletic driving dynamics befitting a true performance sedan.
Never has a vehicle’s name been so appropriate, but if the all-new Genesis is anything to go off, this is truly the start of an entirely new and breathtaking era for Hyundai. Contact us online or stop by 3Birds Template today for a test drive.
*MSRP excludes destination charges, tax, title, and license fees. Destination charges and actual dealer prices may vary. Vehicles displayed may contain optional equipment at additional cost.
Image: Hyundai
