First Impressions

The Hyundai Genesis, entering its second generation, is taking its fight elsewhere. While the first gen showed what the brand was capable of, the 2015 Genesis has Hyundai directly challenging German and Japanese luxury marques like BMW, Mercedes, Lexus, and Infiniti.

This middle weight sedan, which expands slightly in wheelbase and overall length, also expands upon Hyundai’s Fluidic Sculpture design language. The look is more premium, and very much in step with others in the segment, featuring an overly prominent grille, LED lights throughout, and a well-executed interior scheme.

Power is familiar, a 5.0 liter V8, now rated at 420 horsepower, and a 3.8 liter, 311 horsepower V6. Both mate to an 8 speed automatic transmission. The V6 also offers a choice of rear-wheel or all-wheel drive. 

Our first drives proved the Genesis succeeds absolutely as a confidence inspiring, premium people-hauler. A special housing keeps engine noise, even the V8’s substantial grunt, to a whisper inside the cabin. Available continuous damping control keeps the car’s suspension on its toes, and steering is nicely tighter than the first gen car. Handling is not quite Teutonic, but better than most Asian rivals.

PATRICK LUCAS: In terms of comfort, and refinement, and just the smooth driving experience that you get with this new Genesis; I mean, I really don’t think you can get much better at this price point.

JOHN DAVIS: An impressive suite of technologies, for both safety and convenience, makes for a complete package. Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keeping Assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking systems are available.

And Hyundai’s second gen Bluelink infotainment adds Google Search, Siri and Google Glass integration.

Starting around $39,000, the 2015 Hyundai Genesis is on sale now.